How to Care for Your Leather Collar

Full-grain leather gets better with age — but only if it's looked after. Here's exactly what to do (and what to avoid).

Daily Habits Remove the collar before swimming, bathing, or prolonged rain exposure. Wet leather that dries while being worn can stiffen and shrink over time. If the collar does get wet, let it air-dry flat — away from direct heat or sunlight.

Monthly Conditioning Apply a small amount of leather conditioner with a soft cloth every 4–6 weeks. Work it in with circular motions, let it absorb for 10 minutes, then buff off any excess. This keeps the leather supple and prevents the surface from drying and cracking.

What to Use Use a conditioner designed for vegetable-tanned or full-grain leather. Avoid products containing silicone, petroleum, or heavy wax — these sit on the surface rather than penetrating the grain, and can degrade the leather over time.

Cleaning For dirt and grime, wipe with a slightly damp cloth. For more stubborn marks, use a small amount of saddle soap — work up a light lather, wipe clean, and follow immediately with conditioner, as saddle soap can dry the leather if used alone.

Hardware The solid brass hardware on PAWD collars won't rust, but it will develop a natural patina. If you prefer it polished, a quick buff with a dry cloth is all it takes. Avoid metal polishes near the leather.

Storage Store collars flat or hanging — not coiled tightly. Keep away from direct sunlight during storage, which can fade and dry the leather faster than normal wear.

With basic care, a PAWD leather collar will outlast several generations of synthetic alternatives.