Preserving leather on rucksack

[LeonardoL]

Hi guys. Now some of you might be against this but i would rather clean the leather every month than letting it crack.


Yesterday i got this GJ rucksack. Very good condition and all, remains of factory papers inside. But all of the leather pieces are very dry.



I use Balea body milk. These pics were taken 1 in the morning.



And this was taken few minutes ago. Thle leather absorbed the milk, and got softer.



The nivea is good for flexible leather that needs just a bit of treatment, but for now (for me) the balea is best for softening.

Any options and suggestions welcomed

[harryamb2]

saddle soap is the answer.

[Gunny Hartmann]

I'm with you as i'd prefer to see the leather preserved rather than cracking and breaking, i saved a pair of US rough out boots that were as hard as hell by soaking 'em in olive oil, it worked a treat and wont damage any stitching!...

[Opex]

Ah the old question of "To preserve or not to preserve", personally I would rather treat the leather and therefore preserve the long term condition of the leather, great tips shared here in regards to what products to use, I never considered using hand cream,nor olive oil thanks guys

And a great vintage piece,which I would be very proud to own too

[James C]

i too have learned something new here today ,ive a few pieces that have dryed out ,helmet chinstraps mainly and a pair of wermacht officers boots so i might give these methods a try

[LeonardoL]

Im glad you guys like the metods. Im experimenting with all kinds of creams and stuff with dry leather and for now i found out that the best thing (for me): Balea body milk for softening (as soon as the leather "drinks" it apply another layer, 4-5 times; its not to hard to wipe it clean if it stops "drinking"). And i use Nivea plain cream for leather that isnt to dry (mostly on canteen harnesses and smaller items) even if they dont need a treatment, wont do any harm.