Care For Your Leather Camera Strap

Your handmade leather camera strap is crafted from premium quality leather designed to last a lifetime. With minimal care, it will develop a beautiful patina and become even more comfortable over time.

Understanding Your Leather

We use two main types of leather:

Horween Chromexcel - A full-grain, pull-up leather that's naturally water-resistant and develops a rich patina
Veg Tan Leather - Natural, undyed leather that darkens beautifully with age and use

Both types are durable, low-maintenance, and improve with age. The natural oils in the leather keep it supple, and the patina that develops is a sign of quality, not wear.

Regular Inspection

Every few months, inspect your strap for:

Cuts, nicks, or excessive wear on the leather
Loose or damaged stitching
Worn hardware (split rings, buckles, rivets)
Signs of stretching or deformation

Early detection of issues can prevent bigger problems. If you notice any damage, contact us at 595strapco@gmail.com for repair advice.

Cleaning Your Strap

For light dirt or dust:

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth
Use a slightly damp cloth for stubborn marks
Allow to air dry naturally

For deeper cleaning (every 3-6 months):

Use a soft cloth with mild saddle soap or leather cleaner
Gently wipe in circular motions
Remove soap residue with a clean, damp cloth
Allow to dry completely before conditioning

Conditioning & Maintenance

Frequency: Condition your strap 2-3 times per year, or when the leather feels dry.

Recommended products:

Leather oil (neatsfoot oil, mink oil)
Leather wax or balm
Leather conditioner (Lexol, Obenauf's, or similar quality brands)

How to apply:

Ensure the strap is clean and dry
Apply a small amount of oil or conditioner to a soft cloth
Rub into the leather using circular motions
Pay extra attention to areas that flex or bend
Allow to absorb for 15-20 minutes
Buff with a clean cloth to remove excess

Water & Moisture

While our leather has some natural water resistance, it's best to avoid prolonged exposure to water.

If your strap gets wet:

Wipe off excess water with a soft cloth
Allow to air dry naturally at room temperature
Never use heat (hairdryer, radiator, direct sunlight) to speed drying
Once dry, apply leather conditioner to restore oils

Note: Some dye may run in very damp or humid conditions, especially with darker colors. This is normal and will stabilize over time.

Storage & Protection

When not in use:

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Avoid storing in plastic bags (leather needs to breathe)
Keep away from heat sources
Store flat or hanging to prevent creasing

UV Protection: Prolonged sun exposure can fade and dry out leather. While normal outdoor photography use is fine, avoid leaving your strap in direct sunlight for extended periods.

Hardware Care

The metal components (split rings, buckles, rivets) require minimal care:

Wipe clean with a dry cloth
Check for rust or corrosion periodically
Ensure split rings and buckles are secure
Contact us if hardware needs replacement

Patina & Aging

One of the beautiful aspects of quality leather is how it ages. Over time, your strap will:

Darken and develop rich color depth
Show unique wear patterns based on your use
Become softer and more comfortable
Develop character marks and scratches (this is normal and desirable!)

This patina is a sign of genuine, quality leather and makes your strap uniquely yours.

What NOT to Do

❌ Don't use harsh chemicals or household cleaners
❌ Don't machine wash or submerge in water
❌ Don't use heat to dry wet leather
❌ Don't over-condition (too much oil can weaken leather)
❌ Don't store in plastic bags or airtight containers
❌ Don't use silicone-based products

Troubleshooting

Dye transfer: If dye runs onto clothing, it will typically wash out. The dye transfer will reduce significantly after the first few weeks of use.

Stiff leather: Apply leather conditioner and work the strap gently to restore flexibility.

Minor scratches: These add character! You can minimize their appearance by rubbing gently with your finger (natural oils help) or applying a small amount of leather conditioner.

Mold/mildew: If stored in damp conditions, wipe with a cloth dampened with equal parts water and white vinegar, then dry thoroughly and condition.

When to Replace

With proper care, your leather strap should last many years. Consider replacement if you notice:

Significant thinning or cracking of the leather
Broken stitching that compromises safety
Damaged hardware that can't be replaced
Excessive stretching that affects functionality

Questions?

If you have any questions about caring for your leather camera strap, please contact us at 595strapco@gmail.com. We're happy to help!