My leather band stinks! Cleaning tips?

There are leather cleaners. They're expensive but may be worth trying. Of course, test on a small, inconspicuous area.

If you're feeling adventuresome (and it sounds like you don't have a lot to lose) try saddle soap. It's cheap, and you can get a small can in the hardware store.

 

You could try putting it in a ziplock bag with some baking soda or rinsing it in diluted vinegar and airing it to dry.

 

I do not think there is much you can do about it as the leather has absorbed sweat and each time it gets wet will smell again.

 

Maybe you are right.

 

Aren't there leather conditioners? They should be oil based, and soak into the leather not only getting the smell out, but keeping the leather soft and "fresh".

 

Mink oil is an example (don't hate Peta folks I wouldn't use it just mentioning it!!!! lol)

 

There's a Hermes saddle soap! Who knew? Folks on Amazon like Fiebings. $8.34 Prime vs $25 for Hermes. Fiebings also makes a mink oil paste.

 

There are ways to delay the inevitable but in my experience a daily worn leather band needs to be replaced every 1-2 years. That's just the way it is, and the reason I'm done with leather bands, even though I like the leather look and comfort.

For the Apple Watch I got a Milanese loop band, which I'm very happy with. It's the bees knees, both comfortable and easy to clean.