I have noticed some interest lately in cleaning up or rehabbing
holsters, so I thought I would share some of my "secrets".
1. Spray bottle with distilled water. I use total immersion if
the holster is extremely dirty or stinky, or if I plan to re-shape
the holster. But usually I just spray the holster lightly with
the distilled water. Distillation removes minerals and other
impurities from the water.
2. Then I use Dawn dishwasher liquid. Just a few drops are
sufficient. Dawn is used to clean the birds after oil spills, so
I figure it is strong enough, yet gentle enough for my gun
leather. I scrub with a kitchen sponge and work up a lather.
I use an old toothbrush to get into the deep carvings. I might
repeat this a few times, depending on what is coming off.
3. I use a microfiber cloth to wipe off the grime. It is quite
absorbant and it picks up the grime without scratching or
damaging the leather.
4. I use a hair dryer on the low-warm setting to dry the
holster. I know, I should let it set overnight and dry naturally,
but I am impatient. My Mama always told me to never put off
til tomorrow what you can do today. And at 83 I cant be too
sure I will be available tomorrow.
5. After drying, I massage BlackRock Leather 'N' Rich into
the holster. turnerriver gave me this idea a few years ago
and I have used it ever since with good results. I get it at
my local saddle shop for about ten bucks for a 4 oz. jar.
It is also available on-line.
6. After the BlackRock is good and dry, I buff the holster to
a shine with my shoe brush. Recently I was admiring the shine
on one of Red Nichol's holsters and asked him how he does it.
He uses Fiebing's Tan-Kote. So I got some at my local Tandy
store. About eight bucks for a 4 oz. bottle. I have been using
it lately. Just wipe it on and let it dry. It makes a nice shine.
Now, I have to go shopping and see if I can find another
holster that needs rehabbing. If I find something I will post
a before and after photo.