Leather watch strap cleaning

[normdiaz]

What is recommended for safe leather watch strap cleaning?

[NelsonE]

I've always felt a leather strop is one of those expendable items, once you have signs of wear and tear you just pitch it. Usually it's the underside that gets the gunk and smell and there isn't much you can do with that. For minor issues with the top I've used leather cleaners and conditioners like Bick.

[normdiaz]

Thanks, Nelson.  You're probably right.  The strap I had in mind is still in good shape, but could use a light cleaning on the underside.   

[thanapa]

Like good leather shoes, Norm - they CAN be cleaned. I would suggest water and saddle soap.

[mwbuss8]

I have some leftover mink oil from rubbing down my baseball glove in college. When I get a new band I rub it down, then occasionally re-oil it. The mink oil softens, cleans, and protects it. It's right next to the saddle soap shown above in shoe care products.

-Micah

[normdiaz]

Thanks for the suggestions gentlemen. 

[Time]

what kind of leather straps are some of you getting that are disposable?


If you get good quality leather, its not only water resistant, but you can easily clean it.
Some of my lather straps are more expensive than some of my bracelets!

[normdiaz]

Some of my lather straps are more expensive than some of my bracelets!

No doubt about that (though I don't get into that range).   I read somewhere that watch straps should be replaced yearly.  Of course, it might have been a strapmaker's recommendation to boost sales.     

Has anyone used, on watch straps, some of the leather wipes on the market?

[Time]

here's one of my leather straps that is of amazing quality!