- 1). Wipe down the chaps using a lint-free cloth to remove any dust and debris from the leather.
- 2). Turn the chaps inside out to protect the leather. If you prefer, you can place the chaps in a mesh dry cleaning bag for further protection. Because the dye will bleed in the wash, only wash like colors together.
- 3). Turn your washing machine on using similar settings for your regular laundry--light colors should be washed in warm water and rinsed in cold water; dark colors should be washed and rinsed in only cold water.
- 4). Pour in about 1 cup of leather and suede detergent and conditioning soap into the washing machine. This product can be purchased online or from any leather shop--and place that sells chaps, cowboy boots, cowboy hats and leather/suede jackets will carry this product. This detergent is meant to clean the leather in the washing machine while conditioning it at the same time to prevent cracking.
- 5). Take the chaps out when they are finished being washed. Air dry the chaps away from any heat and sunlight to prevent shrinking.
- 6). Apply a leather conditioning dressing or cream to the leather while it's drying to protect the leather and prevent fading. Rub the dressing onto the leather in a circular motion.
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