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The short answer: Wash leather work gloves by hand using lukewarm water and a mild saddle soap or leather cleaner, never machine wash or dry. Rinse thoroughly, then gently squeeze out excess water (do not twist). Dry them slowly at room temperature away from direct heat or sunlight, and while still slightly damp, condition the leather with a leather conditioner or mink oil. This method preserves the leather’s natural oils and prevents cracking or stiffening.
Leather is a natural material that reacts poorly to aggressive cleaning methods. When you toss leather gloves into a washing machine, the agitation and spinning can cause the leather to stretch, tear, or lose its shape. The detergent strips away the natural oils that keep leather supple, leading to dryness and cracking. Similarly, the high heat of a dryer shrinks and hardens leather, making the gloves stiff and uncomfortable. Even if your gloves have a label that says ‘machine washable,’ it’s risky because the leather may have been treated with a coating that can degrade over time. Always err on the side of hand washing.
Start by removing any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth. Then, fill a basin or sink with lukewarm water (not hot, as heat opens the leather pores and causes shrinkage). Add a few drops of mild saddle soap or a dedicated leather cleaner. Submerge the gloves and gently scrub them with a soft cloth or sponge, paying extra attention to stained areas. Avoid soaking them for too long; 2 to 3 minutes is sufficient. Rinse thoroughly with clean lukewarm water until all soap residue is gone. Squeeze the gloves gently to remove excess water, but never wring them out, as that can distort the shape. Use a clean towel to blot them dry.
Drying is just as critical as washing. Never use a dryer, radiator, hairdryer, or direct sunlight. These cause rapid moisture loss, leading to stiff, brittle, and cracked leather. Instead, place the gloves on a dry towel, reshape them to their natural form, and let them air dry at room temperature in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources. Turn them occasionally to ensure even drying. It may take 24 to 48 hours. If they become stiff after drying, that’s normal; you’ll restore softness with conditioning.
Once the gloves are completely dry but before they become rock hard, apply a leather conditioner or mink oil. This replenishes the natural oils lost during washing. Use a small amount and massage it into the leather using your fingers or a soft cloth. Focus on the palms and fingers where the most wear occurs. Let the conditioner absorb for a few hours or overnight. If you use mink oil, be aware it can darken the leather, so test on a small area first. For work gloves, you might also consider a leather wax for added water resistance.
Not every dirty glove requires a full wash. For minor dirt or sweat, simply wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and allow them to air out. If they’re heavily soiled with oil or grease, you may need a stronger cleaner like a degreaser, but test it first on a hidden spot. Over-washing can actually shorten the life of your gloves, so reserve full washings for when they truly need it. In between, keep them dry and store them in a cool, dry place, not in direct sunlight.
If you’ve neglected your gloves and they’ve become stiff, you can often revive them. Soak them in lukewarm water with a bit of leather cleaner for about 5 minutes, then gently work the leather with your hands to loosen it. Dry them slowly as described, then apply a generous amount of conditioner. This process may need to be repeated once or twice for very dry leather. However, if the leather is cracked or has holes, it may be time to invest in a new pair. For a great selection of durable work gloves, check out our buying guide to find options that suit your needs and budget.
It’s not recommended. Dish soap is designed to cut grease and can strip the leather’s natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to cracking. Stick to saddle soap or a product specifically made for leather.
Only wash them when they are visibly dirty or have a strong odor. Frequent washing accelerates wear. After each use, just brush off dust and let them air out. Consider using glove liners to reduce sweat and odor, extending the time between washes.
If they get wet from sweat, let them air dry naturally away from heat, and then condition them. For rain, dry them slowly and condition them as well. Water itself isn’t harmful, but rapid drying is. Always avoid heat sources.
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