Leather gloves can handle a bit of rain or snow, but how you dry them afterward makes all the difference. I’ve had clients bring in beautiful gloves that were ruined simply because they were dried on a radiator or tossed near a heater. When leather loses its moisture too fast or unevenly, it becomes stiff, shrinks, or cracks. The good news? Drying leather gloves properly is simple and doesn’t require fancy tools; just care and patience.
The Right Way to Dry Leather Gloves
Step 1: Gently Remove Excess Moisture
After your gloves get wet, the first step is to blot; not rub; them with a clean, dry cloth. Press the towel gently against the leather to soak up surface water. Don’t twist or wring them out, as that can stretch or deform the fingers and palms. A gentle squeeze can help release trapped water, but only if done carefully.
Step 2: Reshape While Damp
Once most of the moisture is gone, reshape the gloves. Lay them flat and gently form them back to their original shape. If they feel too limp to hold form, slide a clean, dry towel or soft cloth inside. This helps maintain structure and prevents the fingers from curling or shrinking as they dry.
“Shape retention is just as important as moisture control,” says Lisa Monroe, leather repair specialist at CraftSkin Studio. “Gloves left to dry out of shape won’t feel right when you wear them again.”
Step 3: Let Them Air Dry Naturally
Place the gloves in a well-ventilated room away from direct sunlight, heaters, or hairdryers. It may take several hours or even overnight, depending on how wet they were, but this slow approach prevents damage. Artificial heat can leech the natural oils from the leather, making it brittle.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Skip the Heat
Never dry leather gloves with artificial heat. Radiators, dryers, and direct sun can speed up evaporation in the worst way, leaving the leather dry and cracked.
Maintain Their Shape
Insert dry cloth, tissue, or a soft towel into each glove to help hold their form. This is especially helpful for preserving the fit and preventing wrinkles in the leather.
Recondition After Drying
Once the gloves are completely dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner. Rub it in gently with a clean cloth. This restores flexibility and helps replenish any natural oils lost during drying.
“Conditioning after drying is like moisturizing your skin after a long day in the sun,” explains Drew Keller, product care expert at GloveWell Co. “It keeps the leather supple and ready for wear.”
Double-Check Before Storing
Before putting them away, make sure the gloves are completely dry inside and out. Any leftover moisture can lead to mold or mildew, especially if stored in a dark space.
Final Takeaways
Drying leather gloves correctly isn’t about speed; it’s about care. Blot, reshape, and air dry in a cool, ventilated spot. Avoid heat, and don’t skip conditioning once they’re dry. This simple routine ensures your gloves stay soft, wearable, and in excellent condition for many years.
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