Are you a proud leather harness owner and want to ensure it stays in good condition for years to come? Storing your leather harness properly is critical to maintaining its quality and durability.
Leather harnesses are a timeless fashion statement that stands the test of time. From pirate corsets to hundreds of styles of horse tack or even keeping your pet pup safe during walks, leather harnesses have something for everyone and can quickly become an essential part of any wardrobe.
But while it’s easy to fall in love with them, understanding how to care for them properly is not so simple. That’s why we created this guide on the basics – from cleaning up spots after spills to scalp conditioning —to help you make sure your favorite accessory lasts as long as possible!
Keep reading for our tips on how to store leather harness effectively.
What Will You Need?
Before you start storing your leather harness, there are a few essential items that you should have on hand to make the process easier and more efficient.
- Clean cloth or sponge
- Leather cleaner and conditioner
- Leather polish (optional)
- Soft brush
Once these items are ready, let’s move on to the next steps.
10 Easy Steps on How to Store Leather Harness
Step 1. Clean Your Leather Harness:
Start by cleaning your harness thoroughly. Use a clean, dry cloth or sponge to wipe off any visible dirt or grime. Apply a small amount of leather cleaner to the cloth and gently rub it into the stain for tough stains. Remember always to follow the instructions on the cleaner’s label.
Step 2. Apply Leather Conditioner:
Once you’ve cleaned your leather harness, it’s time to condition it. Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a clean cloth or sponge. Rub the conditioner into the leather, making sure to cover all areas.
This will help keep your harness soft and supple, preventing it from drying out and cracking over time. Allow the conditioner to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth. Always follow the instructions on the conditioner’s label.
Step 3. Let Your Harness Dry:
After cleaning and conditioning, it’s essential to let your leather harness dry thoroughly. Take your time with this step, as placing your harness in storage while still damp can lead to mildew and damage the leather. Leave your harness in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause the leather to crack or warp. Once it’s scorched, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 4. Polish Your Harness (Optional):
If you want your leather harness to have a shiny finish, it is time to polish it. Apply a small amount of leather polish to a clean cloth or sponge and carefully rub it into the leather. Make sure to cover all areas for a uniform look. This step is optional and depends on your personal preference. Once you’re done, allow the polish to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 5. Wrap Your Harness:
Once your leather harness is clean, conditioned, fully dry, and polished (if you’ve chosen to do so), it’s time to prepare it for storage. Wrapping your leather harness can provide an extra layer of protection. Use a soft, breathable fabric like cotton to cover your harness. Avoid using plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mold and mildew. Covering also helps to prevent scratches and dents during storage.
Step 6. Choose the Right Storage Location:
Store your leather harness in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. The ideal storage area should have good air circulation to prevent mold or mildew development. It should also be free from excessive heat or cold, as extreme temperatures can cause the leather to degrade and lose its flexibility.
Steer clear of areas with strong odors, as leather is porous and can absorb these smells. Lastly, avoid storing the harness in a cramped space. Instead, opt for a location where it can maintain its shape and not be flattened or distorted.
Step 7. Store Your Harness Flat or Hang It Up:
Decide how you want to store your harness. If you have enough space, lay it flat on a shelf. This is the best way to keep it in shape, especially for more delicate or intricate designs. Alternatively, you can hang it up.
Use a wide, padded hanger to distribute the weight evenly and avoid creating stress points on the leather. Do not use wire or thin hangers, as these can lead to deformations in the harness. Whether you lay it flat or hang it up, ensure it isn’t crushed or folded, as this can cause unwanted creases and damage the leather over time.
Step 8. Regular Maintenance Checks:
Even in storage, your leather harness requires regular care to stay in top condition. Take it out of storage every few months and give it a quick once-over. Check for any signs of mold, mildew, cracking, or discoloration. Clean and condition your harness before returning it to storage if you notice any of these. This step will ensure your harness remains in peak condition for years.
Step 9. Avoid Stacking Other Items on the Harness:
When your leather harness is in storage, keeping it free from pressure or weight that can misshape it over time is essential. Avoid stacking other items on top of the harness, as it can lead to creases, dents, or cracks in the leather.
If your storage space is limited, try to find a dedicated space just for your harness where it can retain its shape and quality. Maintaining this discipline will go a long way in preserving your leather harness’s aesthetic and functional qualities.
Step 10. Recondition Your Harness Before Use:
After you’ve stored your leather harness for a while, it’s crucial to recondition it before wearing it again. This process helps to restore the leather’s softness and flexibility, ensuring optimum comfort and durability.
Use a clean cloth to apply a small amount of leather conditioner to cover all areas. Let the conditioner soak in for a few minutes, then wipe off the excess. This step will refresh your harness and enhance its lifespan, allowing you to enjoy its beauty and functionality more.
By following these steps, you can effectively store your leather harness and maintain its quality for years.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Use Professional Products: Using professional-grade leather care products can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality of your harness. These are specially formulated for leather and can better preserve its natural characteristics.
- Avoid Chemical Cleaners: Stay away from cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. These can strip away the leather’s natural oils, leading to dryness and cracks.
- Rotate Your Harness: If you have multiple harnesses, rotate their use. This gives each harness a break, reducing wear and tear.
- Don’t Overcondition: While conditioning is important, overdoing it can make the leather too soft, affecting its shape and strength. Stick to the recommended amount and frequency on the conditioner’s label.
- Keep an Eye on Your Storage Environment: Regularly check the humidity and temperature levels in your storage space. High humidity levels can cause mold growth, while extreme temperatures can damage the leather.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can ensure your leather harness stays in top condition and is always ready for use.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Storing in Damp Areas: Avoid storing your leather harness in damp or humid areas. Such environments can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, which can damage the leather.
- Using Non-approved Leather Products: Avoid using products not designed explicitly for leather care. They may contain chemicals or substances that could deteriorate the quality of your harness.
- Leaving in Direct Sunlight: Never leave your leather harness in direct sunlight for prolonged periods. Overexposure to sunlight can cause the leather to fade and lose its strength.
- Ignoring Signs of Damage: Do not ignore any signs of damage or wear and tear on your harness. Early detection can prevent further damage and maintain the longevity of your harness.
- Storing Without Cleaning: Only store your harness after first cleaning and conditioning it. Dirt and sweat can break down the leather over time, leading to premature wear and tear.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can prolong the lifespan of your leather harness and enjoy it for many years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, leather harnesses should be treated like heirlooms. Taking the time–like anything else of value–to learn how to store and protect your leather harness will help ensure it stands the test of time. Be sure to regularly clean and condition your harness with the correct products for its type and construction, and then store it out of direct sunlight, away from extreme temperatures, and in an excellent, dry space.
Hopefully, the article on how to store leather harness has helped you understand the importance of proper storage techniques and provided valuable tips to keep your leather harness in pristine condition.
By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy your leather harness for many years! If you have not invested in a quality leather harness yet, now is the time, as quality craftsmanship is invaluable. Don’t put off any longer – start your search for a beautiful new leather piece today!
