This guide will show you how to soften your leather work gloves so they are more comfortable to wear. You will need a few simple supplies and it only takes a few minutes to do. Read on to find out how!
Gloves can become stiff and uncomfortable after working with your hands. Also, they can lose their shape and become misshapen, which can reduce their effectiveness. To make your leather work gloves more comfortable, follow this guide.
1. Leather gloves should be cleaned regularly
When it comes to softening already used leather gloves, this step is extra important and often overlooked. Your leather gloves will likely accumulate dust, dirt, and impurities over time.
Here is a step-by-step guide for cleaning leather gloves effectively. Following the steps outlined in this article will be made more effective and efficient by removing these accumulated elements.
It’s possible to skip steps 6 – 8 in the linked article if you prefer to clean new gloves before attempting to soften them. For the exteriors of your leather gloves, you should also opt for lighter cleaning solutions that are softer and lighter.
2. Condition your leather gloves
It is recommended that you test your leather conditioner of choice on a small, discreet area of the gloves before using it on the entire glove. Your leather conditioner mustn’t damage or discolor your gloves unintentionally.
To apply the leather conditioner, you should use a cotton ball or microfiber cloth, once you have determined that it is safe. To ensure even application, wipe your leather gloves in gentle, small circular motions. If there is any excess conditioner on the gloves’ surface, gently wipe it off with a clean, dry cloth after letting them sit for an hour or two.
Moisturizing and softening your leather gloves will ease the break-in process. Be sure to use a conditioner that is appropriate for your hair type. Your leather gloves will look classy and aged over time if you use a good conditioner.
Mineral oils and conditioners with silicone or petroleum-based ingredients should be avoided. On a long-term basis, these ingredients could accelerate the oxidation process and cause your leather gloves to decompose.
It is recommended to use leather conditioners specifically designed for this purpose. Olive oil or vegetable oil is suitable for quick leather glove conditioning without worrying about keeping them pristine for more than a year or two. It is important not to overapply conditioner in this step. It’s important to keep in mind that less is more in this case.
3. Get your leather gloves to fit your hand perfectly
Despite their timeless nature, leather gloves can be a bit difficult to break in. There are a few things you can do to make your gloves fit better on your hands if you are having trouble getting them to form fit. Start by wearing them around the house for a short period to get them used to your hands. To soften the leather, you can also gently stretch them with your hands or use a hand lotion. With leather gloves, you’ll enjoy the classic style and comfort for years to come.
4. Leather gloves should be waterproof
It is optional to complete this step. In addition to helping prevent future stiffening of your gloves, waterproofing won’t soften your leather gloves by itself.
Use an off-the-shelf spray product to waterproof your gloves. Spray the product evenly across your gloves by holding the spray nozzle 10-15cm away from them. This process can be done while wearing gloves. You can prevent missing the areas between your fingers by spreading your fingers during the application process.
A homemade waterproofing solution can also be created using beeswax and olive oil. Your leather gloves will be coated with a waxy substance after you rub them over them. Buff your leather gloves with a microfiber cloth to complete this process.
Best products to help Soften Leather
It is possible to soften leather gloves with a variety of products available on the market. The use of leather softening cream is one popular option. You can apply this to the gloves with a soft cloth, and then leave them to soak for a few minutes. Leather conditioners can also be used similarly. Water and vinegar are other popular choices, which can be applied using a soft brush to the gloves.
Conclusion
We hope this guide on softening leather work gloves has been helpful to you. We are happy to have been able to help you soften your gloves, as we know how important it is to be comfortable while working.
