How to Clean a Leather Dog Leash And Keep it Looking New

Most dog trainers agree that the best training lead for any dog is a six foot leather leash. To keep those expensive leather dog leashes looking like new, they should be cleaned and cared for much as you might a leather belt or a pair of shoes.

Cleaning off mud and soil

It never fails; whenever my dog gets away from me, the leash comes back splattered with mud. If the lead is made of finished leather (characterized by a shiny surface), it can be wiped off with a damp rag and mild soap. I use Caress myself, but any type of moisturizing soap will work. Bring the soap to a light lather and then gently apply to the leash, taking care not to put too much water on the lead. To remove soil that is trapped in the stitching, try using a dry, soft bristled toothbrush.

Wipe away the lather with a soft dry cloth, then polish to a shine using a dry towel. Do not rinse the leash in water; this will damage the leather and cause the finish to crack. Once the leash has completely dried, apply either saddle soap or a leather conditioner to keep the leather looking like new.

Some leashes are made of unfinished leather. These can be cleaned much the same way except that polishing the surface to restore a shine won't be necessary. After the leash has thoroughly dried, apply mink oil to the leash to keep it soft and flexible.

Cleaning water soaked leashes

If your leash made a trip through a water puddle, clean the leash as described above, and then let air dry naturally. Don't hang the leash near the fireplace or furnace as the heat can cause the leather to turn brittle and crack. Once the lead has completely dried, the suppleness can be restored by applying a leather conditioner.

Proper storage

Just like you shouldn't set your Sunday shoes outside, leather leashes shouldn't be stored outside as well. Get in the habit of leaving the leash on the coat rack or someplace indoors where it won't be exposed to the elements.

Repairing a damaged leash

Despite our best efforts, leashes do eventually break. If the lead has broken near the ends, consider bringing it to an alterations shop to have it repaired. Professional tailors have the equipment to repair leather leashes, and can usually repair the damage for just a few dollars.

Without proper care and cleaning, a leather dog lead can break within a year or two. By taking care to avoid water and heat where possible, storing the leash properly, and applying a leather conditioner on a regular basis, you'll discover that a dog's leash can last for many more years.