Help, my strap doesn’t look like it did when new!
How to clean your leather camera strap…
You’ve been using your leather camera strap for some time now. It has become one of your favourite things. It’s vastly superior to the stock camera strap that came with your camera. However, you’ve noticed something unusual. It is looking a little tired.
Maybe you’ve used it in the rain a bit too much and the sheen has worn off of it. Or perhaps you’ve photographed a few too many weddings in the sun without properly taking care of it. Whatever the reason, we’re here to show you how to keep your leather camera strap looking beautiful. And lasting forever.
Why should you take the time to ensure you keep your leather camera strap in good working order?
Leather is a natural material, subject to all of the issues any natural material faces, such as: too much sun, rain and general wear and tear. These can be seen a lot quicker with a leather camera strap versus a synthetic one. However, a synthetic camera strap will never be as comfortable, or inherently good looking as a leather camera strap.
With that said, there are some very simple steps you can take to ensure your strap lasts as long as possible.
- Every so often it is important to inspect your strap for nicks, cuts, tears, or dings. If it is damaged stop using your strap immediately and contact us for help. Using a damaged leather camera strap voids your warranty and can cause damage to your expensive camera gear.
- If you get your strap wet wipe it dry immediately and do not let the leather become water logged. Also, it is important to not dry your strap next to heat, i.e. a heater, a fire, stove, etc. This will dry out the natural oils in your leather strap and decrease the lifespan.
- Inspect the hardware on your camera strap every couple of weeks. How are the rivets looking? What about the split rings? Are they worn, overly split, etc.? If so, contact us immediately and we will advise you.
How to clean a leather camera strap?
Cleaning your leather camera strap should be done after the above has been thoroughly reviewed and steps taken to repair any issues found. If there are no issues with your strap and you simply want to refresh it, the steps are as follows:
- Mix a small amount of a mild, natural soap (something like a gentle Castile soap works well) with a half cup of water unless it becomes slightly foamy.
- Wipe your leather camera strap down with a cotton cloth to remove any excess dirt. Allow your strap to fully air dry.
- Once your strap is dry using a new cotton cloth moisturise your strap fully with a good quality leather conditioner. There are many options available, but we prefer Saphir Medaille d’Or Renovateur Cream.
- When your strap has a good coat of conditioner on it wipe any excess away and repeat. Let dry fully.
- Get out there and shoot!
Your strap should now be looking like a distinguished older gentleman. You know he has lived a long life, full of adventure, with many stories to tell, but he is aging well.
We hope that helps. If you have any questions, please pop them in the comments section below, or contact us.
