Schpacko Report post Posted September 2, 2011 Hi guys Today, i read a post in a forum about clothes. A guy wrote something about washing leather belts in hot water to achieve a nice, kind of antiqued look: "It's the easiest thing in the world, and with high quality leather, the results are terrific. Turn your tap on to the highest temperature, and soak the belt in it for 5 minutes or so. Take out, wring out the leather, and then pull to get it back to it's original length, flatten out the leather with your hands, and let it dry for a day or two in a cool, dry, place. I did this with a navy belt that was just a bit too dark, and it took out just enough dye, and the color became a little less uniform, and the leather looks fantastic contrasted with the brass buckle. I've actually gotten tons of compliments, and more than one offer to buy it." What do you guys think about that? Would it damage the leather in any way? Any other side effects that could occur? Thanks in advance Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Anonnymouse Report post Posted September 2, 2011 I would assume it would work, so long as it was completely even. But don't take my word for it, I don't know. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin Report post Posted September 2, 2011 I would not put leather in water any warmer than what you can hold your hand in, it will cook it. Kevin Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
BillB Report post Posted September 4, 2011 I would be concerned that the natural oils required to keep the leather supple would be removed with the hot water the same as the dye was. Once dried, the leather could become hard and brittle. I would expect that the leather will need some oiling to get it back to a supple state. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WinterBear Report post Posted September 4, 2011 Wait...I'm confused. If he's recommending that people do this with high-quality leather, and he did it to take the dye out of a navy belt, how high quality was that belt? I mean, wouldn't a well dyed, buffed, oiled, and sealed belt be resistant to slipping dye? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Sara Chang Report post Posted September 6, 2011 Hello, I would like to say, the simplest way to keep it clean is to dust it off with a soft, dry, rag or cloth when you have finished wearing it. Dry, dusty dirt will wipe off easily and leave no traces. Leather softeners and cleaners have essential oils in them to replenish the natural oils originally found in the leather used to make your belt. If your entire belt becomes wet, lay it flat and let it dry at room temperature. Never put a leather belt into the clothes' dryer as this can cause it to harden and lose its shape. Thanks a lot again Sara Chang ___________ http://www.britishmotorcyclegear.com Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
