Leather belts can feel stiff and uncomfortable to wear, especially when they are new. In addition, the skin can also become dry and cracked if you do not take good care of it. Fortunately, there are several chemical treatments that are safe to loosen the leather belt so that it is more comfortable to wear.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using Isopropyl Alcohol and Vaseline
Step 1. Rub the belt with rubbing alcohol
Pour a little alcohol over the cotton to make it easier for you to apply. Then, wipe the surface of the skin thoroughly with rubbing alcohol. This step will clean and open the skin pores. Try to let the alcohol soak into the skin. You may have to rub the alcohol coat a few times.
- Isopropyl alcohol is available in most pharmacies and convenience stores. Check your medicine cabinet at home, you might find it there!
- If cotton is not available, use a clean towel, tissue, or cotton cloth. You can also use your fingers. Be careful, though, as alcohol can dry out your skin if it's in contact for too long.
Step 2. Continue with Vaseline
Take Vaseline or a petrolatum product by hand or a cotton swab. Then, apply it on the belt surface evenly. Allow the Vaseline to soak into the skin.
You don't need to apply a thick layer of Vaseline to the leather belt to loosen it up. Just apply a thin layer evenly
Step 3. Clean the belt
Wipe the Vaseline with a rag or tissue. Wait for the belt to dry before you put it on. To speed up the drying process, you can dry the belt.
Method 2 of 3: Using Natural Oils
Step 1. Dry the leather belt in the sun
Before using oil, dry the belt first. Leave it on for about 10 minutes to open the pores and prepare the skin.
Step 2. Select the oil to use
Organic coconut oil commonly used for cooking contains an effective and easily available softening agent. You can also use avocado, jojoba, olive, or almond oil. Use natural oils that you won't hesitate to apply to your own skin to relax the skin. Belts are made from cowhide that has been dried and processed so that it has essentially the same elements as your leather.
- Natural oils have the added advantage of having a pleasant aroma. Rubbing alcohol and Vaseline are also effective at loosening belts, but you may not like the smell of the chemicals being released. Choose an oil with a scent you like.
- Do not use chemically treated hydrogenated oils, such as most commercial corn and vegetable oils.
Step 3. Rub the oil on the surface of the belt
All you have to do is dip your finger in the oil and gently rub it all over the belt. Apply the oil several times for better softening effect. The more oil you apply, the weaker the skin will be.
Don't worry if you use too much oil. Most natural oils will not damage the skin
Step 4. Let the oil dry
Be aware that oils, especially coconut oil, can darken the color of the belt. However, the oil will also make the skin softer and more comfortable to wear. If the belt has not loosened enough, repeat the treatment process with oil.
You can take advantage of the oil's darkening effect to change the look of the belt. However, make sure you apply it evenly so that the skin tone is not streaked
Method 3 of 3: Using Skin Care Products
Step 1. Buy a special conditioner for the skin
You can buy these products (usually labeled "leather therapy," "restorer," or "conditioner" at stores that sell horse saddles and bridles. You can also use skin care products that are Designed for loosening, cleaning and polishing leather shoes.
- Many ointments like this actually actually strengthen the skin. This product is designed for saddle or bridle maintenance so it is guaranteed to provide a long term solution.
- Keep in mind that skin care products tend to be more expensive than natural oils, Vaseline, and rubbing alcohol. Choose one of these ointment products if you have the budget to pamper a belt.
Step 2. Apply conditioner
Most products will have specific instructions on the bottle or tube label. Spray, apply, or rub conditioner on the skin and let it soak in. Apply as needed. Wait for the belt to dry before putting it on.
Tips
- Allow the leather belt to loosen on its own before you try any of the methods above. Most leather belts will become weak in no time if worn frequently.
- Oils and ointments can also help protect the belt from water damage. Skin conditioner products, in particular, are designed to strengthen skin against the weather.
- Try these skin care products on new leather shoes to help loosen them up.
Warning
- Alcohol tends to dry out the internal and external collagen fibrils. This can relax the skin more quickly.
- Do not apply this method to leather sofas or chairs. The leather for the sofa/chair is usually quite soft. You will also feel disappointed if there is a change in skin color.
