[sailak]

Any tips on cleaning/treating the leather used as chafe protection on my dodger? It is still in good shape but is dry. Was wondering about saddle soap or something similar. I would like to preserve it as long as possible.

Thanks

 

[mbianka]

I use Protectant 303 for a lot of things exposed to the sun on board. Including leather boat shoes. Just don't use it on the soles or deck of the boat. Makes them very slippery.

 

[Markwesti]

GOOD question , I would say if its already dried out but not to bad, soap and lots of water. Every type of protectant or balm or what ever says don't use on suede (if that's what you have ) . Maybe just soap it up hose it down and live with it .

 

[Faster]

The deterioration of the leather on our dodger compared to the Sunbrella itself has got me thinking that leather is not that good an idea after all..

Once the leather starts to weather it never looks good.. So if you find a good way to keep it fresh that'd be great (too late for us, though...)

 

[RichH]

For leather on exterior applications:
Clean with saddle soap - from an equestrian 'tack shop'
For smooth/'un-rough' leather without a nap: re-oil with 'neatsfoot oil' or 'mink oil' ... thin coating, but dont leave 'blobs'. Such will remain sticky for a week or two.
Sporting goods shops that sell baseball gloves have neatsfoot; mountain shops (EMS.com, etc.) have mink oil. Ditto equestrian/saddle/tack supply shops.

Most mink oils also have silicone compounds to render the leather 'water proof'.

An alternative is 'Snow Proof' a compound used to waterproof leather boots.

 

[Maine Sail]

I use Protectant 303 for a lot of things exposed to the sun on board. Including leather boat shoes. Just don't use it on the soles or deck of the boat. Makes them very slippery.

303 High Tech Fabric Guard has kept ours looking great for many years. We started when it was new though.....