How to Care for a Reclaimed Leather Dog Collar
A Hughies leather collar is made to be worn, not kept looking untouched on a shelf. The leather I use has already had a life before it reaches my workshop, often as part of a sofa, and a little regular care will help it keep going for a long time.
Everyday cleaning
If the collar gets muddy, wipe it with a soft damp cloth and let it dry naturally. That is usually enough.
Try not to soak the leather and avoid putting it on a radiator or using a hairdryer. Too much heat can dry leather out and make it stiff.
After a wet walk
If the collar gets caught in the rain, take it off when you get home, wipe away any dirt and leave it somewhere with good airflow to dry. I would also remove a leather collar before swimming or bathing your dog.
Conditioning the leather
Every so often, especially if the leather starts to feel dry, use a small amount of suitable leather conditioner or balm on a soft cloth. Test it on a small area first, as reclaimed leather can vary from piece to piece.
You do not need much. A light treatment is better than loading the leather with product.
Check the stitching and hardware
It is worth giving the buckle, D-ring and stitching a quick look from time to time. These are working parts and they take a lot of strain on daily walks.
If the buckle becomes loose, the stitching is damaged or the leather is badly worn, stop using the collar until it has been checked or replaced.
Storing it
Keep the collar somewhere dry when it is not being worn. Hang it loosely or lay it flat rather than folding it tightly into a drawer.
One thing I like about reclaimed leather
It does not stay looking brand new forever, and I do not think that is a bad thing. Good leather softens, develops small marks and starts to show some character with use.
That is part of the point of the Couch-to-Collar idea for me: taking leather that still has plenty to give and making something useful from it again.
You can see the current range in our Couch-to-Collar reclaimed leather dog accessories.
