How to Polish Leather Without Oil

When it comes to leather, the best polishing is usually done with a clean cloth and a little elbow grease.

When it comes to leather, a little oil goes a long way. Leather changes the most due to moisture. If the leather dries out, it will become hard and can crack. Although some oil is needed to lubricate leather, too much can cause damage. The oil can stop the leather from breathing and encourage rot. Leather should be polished often, but not with oil.

Things You'll Need

• Clean cloths
• Water
• Mild soap
• Beeswax

Instructions

1. Dust off your leather item with a clean, dry rag. If there is dirt build-up, as often happens with shoes, brush off as much as possible with a soft-bristled brush.

2. Remove or undo any straps or buckles to allow the whole item to be cleaned and polished.

3. Wet a clean rag and rub it gently over the leather item. Use a mild hand soap, if necessary, to remove excess dirt and debris.

4. Dry the item with a clean, dry cloth and then rub it vigorously with a soft cloth such as a cloth diaper. The natural oils already in the leather will come out as you polish the item.

5. Continue to polish with the clean, dry cloth until the item has the shine you desire. If your item is very dry and there seem to be no natural oils coming out, use a little beeswax.

6. Rub a small, dime-sized piece of beeswax between your fingers and then rub it into the leather. Use the clean cloth to polish the item once again.

References

• C&D Jarnagin Company: Leather Preservation for New Leather
• Mrs. Clean: How to Clean Leather