The care and maintenance of your radio strap are critical. By maintaining its usability and durability, you are more likely to use it for longer without it wearing down. The challenge is finding the best cleaning and maintenance approaches to keep your radio strap in good standing for the long haul.
The caring directions will differ depending on the type of radio strap you have. However, firefighters are expected to purchase industry-standard radio straps, which generally involve straps made from specific kinds of durable, weather-resistant materials. So, for this conversation, all caring directions will be based around caring for your leather firefighter radio strap.
One of the reasons that leather is recommended as the material for your radio strap is its rugged nature. A leather firefighter strap is much more resilient than straps of lighter, alternative materials. However, even leather can take a beating if not adequately cared for. Below, we discuss how to care for your leather radio strap to ensure longevity and performance. Read on to learn more.
Follow the instructions to clean your leather radio strap.
Follow the listed instructions specified by the manufacturer. The manufacturer knows which materials respond best to cleaning and upkeep because they are most familiar with their products. Don’t stray from the suggested directions for cleaning, storage, and the overall protection of your leather radio strap.
Use a protective coating to keep it in good, lasting condition.
Leather ages and requires the right exterior products to stay intact. An important part of keeping it clean is using a protective coating; this will increase the longstanding usability of your leather strap. Often, less is more, so go with a natural conditioner that does not over-polish the strap.
Clean using a mild soap and soft fabric brush only.
Clean your strap using gentle but effective tools and cleaning agents. Mild soap and a soft fabric brush are all you need to maintain the state of your leather radio strap. If your leather strap is machine washable, follow the manufacturer’s directions to sanitize and sterilize it. A mild soap generally recommended is dish or saddle soap, depending on the particular leather strap you own.
Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth.
To dry and wipe down your belt, use a gentle cloth, such as a microfiber cloth, to wipe off any debris without damaging the leather. If your leather strap is not machine washable or dryer-friendly, let it dry in a cool place, not exposed to the sun. Exposing your strap to direct sunlight or overhead light may alter the coloring or expedite the aging process. Keep your leather radio strap in a cool, dry place.
Take good care of your gear.
Take good care of your leather radio strap to enhance its longevity and performance. The above tips will set you on a path for maintaining its condition and will keep it moisturized enough to last a long time. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s directions and use mild cleansing ingredients for the best results.
