How to Safely Wash Leather Gloves in a Washing Machine

  • By: TheWalledNursery
  • Time to read: 7 min.
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Leather gloves are a stylish and practical accessory that can elevate any outfit. However, they can be quite challenging to clean, especially if you don’t know the proper way to do it.

Fortunately, washing your leather gloves in the washing machine is a viable option, and it can be done with a few simple steps.

Gardening Gloves Washing

The first thing you need to do is to check the care label on your gloves. Some leather gloves are not suitable for machine washing, and attempting to do so can damage them irreparably. If the care label indicates that the gloves can be machine washed, you can proceed with the cleaning process.

It’s essential to prepare the gloves before washing them in the machine. Start by turning them inside out to prevent the leather from rubbing against other items in the washing machine.

You can also use a mesh laundry bag to protect the gloves from getting tangled or stretched during the wash cycle. With the gloves prepped and ready, you can now proceed with washing them in the machine.

Checking the Care Label

Before washing your leather gloves in the washing machine, it is crucial to check the care label. The care label provides information on how to care for your gloves and helps you determine whether or not they can be safely washed in the washing machine.

When checking the care label, look for any symbols or instructions that indicate whether or not the gloves can be washed in the washing machine.

If the label indicates that the gloves should be hand-washed only, do not attempt to wash them in the washing machine. Doing so can cause damage to the gloves and ruin their appearance and functionality.

If the care label does not indicate whether or not the gloves can be washed in the washing machine, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid washing them in the machine.

Instead, consider hand-washing them or taking them to a professional cleaner who specializes in leather care.

It is also essential to check the care label for any other specific care instructions, such as the recommended water temperature, detergent type, or drying method.

Following these instructions can help ensure that your leather gloves remain in excellent condition and last for many years to come.

Preparing the Gloves for Washing

Before you toss your leather gloves into the washing machine, it’s important to prepare them properly. This will help prevent damage to the leather and ensure that your gloves come out looking their best. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Check the Label

Before you start washing your gloves, check the care label to see if they are machine washable. If the label says “dry clean only” or “do not wash,” you should not attempt to wash them in the washing machine. Instead, take them to a professional cleaner.

Step 2: Remove Dirt and Debris

Use a soft-bristled brush or a clean, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the gloves. Be gentle, as you don’t want to scratch or damage the leather.

Step 3: Turn the Gloves Inside Out

Turning the gloves inside out will help protect the leather during the wash cycle. It will also help ensure that the inside of the gloves get cleaned thoroughly. Be careful not to pull or stretch the leather too much when turning them inside out.

Step 4: Fasten Any Straps or Zippers

If your gloves have straps, zippers, or other fasteners, be sure to fasten them before washing. This will help prevent them from getting tangled or damaged during the wash cycle.

Step 5: Place the Gloves in a Mesh Bag

To further protect your gloves during the wash cycle, place them in a mesh laundry bag. This will help prevent them from getting tangled with other items in the wash and will help protect them from excessive agitation.

By following these simple steps, you can prepare your leather gloves for washing in the washing machine. Doing so will help ensure that your gloves come out looking their best and will help prevent damage to the leather.

Washing the Gloves in the Machine

Washing leather gloves in a washing machine is a convenient way to clean them, but it requires some extra care to avoid damaging the leather. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Check the care label on the gloves to see if they are machine washable. If the label says “dry clean only” or “do not wash,” do not attempt to wash them in the machine.

Step 2: Close any zippers or fasteners on the gloves to prevent them from getting caught in the machine.

Step 3: Place the gloves in a mesh laundry bag to protect them during the wash cycle.

Step 4: Use a mild detergent and set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid using hot water or bleach, as they can damage the leather.

Step 5: Once the cycle is complete, remove the gloves from the bag and gently reshape them. Do not wring or twist the gloves, as this can cause them to lose their shape.

Step 6: Lay the gloves flat on a clean towel to air dry. Do not use a dryer or direct heat source, as this can cause the leather to crack or shrink.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively wash your leather gloves in the washing machine. However, keep in mind that frequent washing can cause the leather to lose its natural oils and become stiff or brittle over time. To extend the life of your gloves, only wash them when necessary and use a leather conditioner to keep them soft and supple.

Drying the Gloves

After washing the gloves, it is important to dry them properly to prevent damage to the leather. Here are a few tips to help you dry your leather gloves:

  • Do not wring or twist the gloves to remove excess water as this can damage the leather.
  • Instead, gently squeeze the gloves to remove excess water.
  • Use a clean, dry towel to absorb any remaining water on the gloves.
  • Do not expose the gloves to direct sunlight or heat sources such as a hair dryer or radiator as this can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
  • Instead, allow the gloves to air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • If the gloves are still damp after a few hours, you can stuff them with newspaper to help absorb the remaining moisture.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your leather gloves are dried properly and maintain their shape and quality.

Conditioning the Gloves

After washing your leather gloves in the washing machine, it’s important to condition them to keep them soft and prevent them from drying out. Here’s how:

  • Start by laying your gloves flat on a clean, dry towel.
  • Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth or sponge.
  • Gently rub the conditioner into the leather, paying special attention to any areas that may be prone to drying out, such as the fingertips and seams.
  • Allow the conditioner to soak into the leather for at least 30 minutes.
  • Use a clean, dry cloth to buff the gloves and remove any excess conditioner.

It’s important to note that not all leather conditioners are created equal, and some may not be suitable for use on certain types of leather. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose a conditioner that is specifically formulated for use on leather gloves.

Additionally, you should avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on your leather gloves, as these can cause damage and shorten their lifespan.

Stick to gentle, leather-friendly products and take care to store your gloves properly when not in use to help them last as long as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing leather gloves in a washing machine can be a safe and effective way to clean them if the proper precautions are taken.

By selecting the right washing machine settings, using a gentle detergent, and ensuring that the gloves are properly prepared for washing, you can help protect your gloves from damage and extend their lifespan.

It’s important to note that not all types of leather gloves can be safely washed in a machine, so it’s important to read the care label and consult with the manufacturer before attempting to clean them.

With the right care and attention, however, washing your leather gloves in a washing machine can be a convenient and efficient way to keep them looking their best.