Polishing/Refinishing a Belt?

[South]

I have a couple of leather belts that have lightened a good deal around the belt holes that are always used. What is the best way to "refinish" a belt? I don't suppose you would use shoe polish?

Lexol? Red Wing boot oil?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Zemke Fan]

Try your local cobbler...

... but don't expect miracles. I just had him do two for me and the results were so-so. Better than before, but not truly up-to-snuff. I think leather belts are a consumable commodity.

 

[Inusuit]

Shoe polish could potentially stain your pants, shirt, and jacket. The products you mention will darken the leather around the holes, but are a temporary fix. You might try them if you already have the products on hand.

I would buy leather dye which is available from Tandy Stores or online in a color that comes close to the belt color. Black would be easy, shades of brown harder to match. Then I'd dye the whole belt. Nothing to lose if, as Zemke Fan suggests, leather belts are a consumable commodity.

I have several leather belts, including one that's over 35 years old, and not had the problem you mention. I do treat them regularly with Lexol or a similar product. If they do show fading or wear, which some do, well, others pay extra for a "pre-distressed" look.