How to Clean Your Leather Goods Safely

The Bolt + Buckle Way

At Bolt + Buckle, we are the home of Indepal Leather.

We pride ourselves on bringing you beautifully crafted pieces with rustic leather that’s made to last, and more importantly, to live. Every scuff, every mark tells a story. That unique patina, developed over time, is what gives our leather its character.

We don’t believe in “perfect.” We believe in worn-in, well-loved, and unmistakably yours.

Still, even the most rugged, well-worn pieces deserve a bit of care. Whether you’re maintaining your everyday belt or reviving an old favourite, here’s how to clean leather with intention, keeping it tough, tactile, and timeless.

Home Leather Cleaning: Keeping It Real

Home leather cleaning should always start with one principle: less is more. Harsh chemicals strip away the natural oils that make rustic leather feel alive. Instead, try a homemade leather cleaner—a gentle mix of distilled water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio) works wonders.

Use a soft cloth to lightly apply and wipe down your leather item. Always test a small patch first, especially with lighter tones.

This isn’t about scrubbing it down; it’s about refreshing without erasing the story your leather has started telling.

How to Remove Mould from Leather—Without Killing Its Soul

Australia’s coastal air or a damp weekend getaway can mean one thing: mould on leather. It’s frustrating, but not fatal.

Start by drying your leather naturally, out of direct sunlight. Once dry, use a mix of rubbing alcohol and water (again, 1:1) to gently wipe away the mould.

Important: don’t soak. Rustic leather absorbs easily.

A light hand keeps the texture intact. Once it’s clean, follow up with a conditioner (more on that soon) to rehydrate what’s been lost.

How to Condition Leather (And How Often)

Conditioning isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s essential to preserve that rugged charm.

So how often to condition leather?

We recommend every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often it’s used and exposed to the elements.

Use a natural balm or cream—not a glossy shoe polish—and apply sparingly with a soft cloth. This reintroduces oils, keeps the leather supple, and helps prevent cracking. Over-conditioning can clog the grain and flatten the rustic finish, so think: nourish, don’t smother.

How to Buff, Moisturise, and Polish Leather

Yes, we get asked this both in our store and online - you can buff leather without losing the ruggedness. A dry, microfiber cloth will restore a natural sheen without synthetic shine. Want to moisturise leather? Use a lanolin-based conditioner—it hydrates while keeping that earthy matte finish.

When it comes to how to polish leather, skip anything that turns your belt into a mirror. We like leather that looks lived-in, not lacquered. If you do want a more dressed-up look, use a neutral polish—but use it sparingly and only on smooth leather finishes.

How to Protect Leather Long-Term

Our pieces are built to handle a bit of life. But how to protect leather long-term? A breathable dust bag and cool, dry storage space are your best friends. Don’t wrap in plastic, it traps moisture. And avoid hanging belts for long periods; lay them flat instead.

Thinking ahead also means knowing how to store leather when not in use. A quick condition before long-term storage prevents drying and cracking.

How to Fix Scratched Leather (Gently)

A scratch on rustic leather? Honestly, we love that. But if you want to soften the edge, rub it gently with your finger—natural oils from your skin will start to blend the mark. For deeper scratches, a small amount of conditioner and a soft cloth can help blend the grain.

If it’s a serious gouge? Wear it with pride. That’s the thing about Bolt + Buckle leather—it looks better the more it’s lived in.

Real Leather, Real Life

These aren’t fast-fashion fixes, they’re tips for pieces that age with grace. Our leather isn’t meant to stay pristine. It’s meant to pick up the personality of the man who wears it.

So next time you’re wondering how to care for leather, think about what it means to you. Is it a belt worn every day? A wallet you’ve had for years? A bag that’s seen the road? Care for it, yes, but don’t try to turn it into something it’s not.

Rustic. Worn. Real. That’s Bolt + Buckle.

The tips shared here are based on general best practices for caring for rustic leather goods. As every piece of leather is unique, results may vary depending on the condition, finish, and age of your item. Always spot-test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area first. Bolt + Buckle is not responsible for any damage resulting from home leather cleaning or maintenance attempts. When in doubt, consult a professional leather care specialist.