Cleaning leather pants with beer baths and mustard stains
The Oktoberfest, held in the city of Munich, Germany, is a time for celebration and traditional attire. For those donning leather pants, it's essential to know how to care for them properly to ensure they last throughout the festivities.
Bernd Glassl, a cleaning expert from the Industry Association for Body Care and Detergents (IKW), has some valuable advice for maintaining leather pants during Oktoberfest.
If stains from mustard or ketchup occur, Glassl recommends using a dry cleaner for leather that resembles an eraser or a bristle brush for leather with gentle pressure to remove most stains. However, he cautions against washing leather pants as a first resort, as it could potentially make the leather stiff and brittle after drying.
When washing leather pants is necessary, Glassl suggests doing so at a maximum of 30 degrees with a special detergent or wool detergent in the wool program. It's important to note that washing may cause tanning agents, natural leather fat, and pigments to be washed out.
In case of emergency, leather pants can be washed, but only if it is explicitly allowed according to the care label. Before using any leather cleaners or applying leather care, it's recommended to test them on an inconspicuous spot first.
If the smell from beer stains on leather pants is a concern, Glassl suggests airing the pants out in the open, preferably on a dry day or covered balcony. This method is usually effective for removing the smell.
It's always a good idea to seek advice from a specialist store before washing or caring for leather pants. Hanging them on the clothesline to dry should be avoided, as it can cause warping and the pants may no longer fit well.
In conclusion, with proper care and attention, leather pants can be a stylish choice for Oktoberfest. By following the advice of experts like Bernd Glassl, you can ensure your leather pants stay in great condition throughout the festivities.
