How often should leather parts of climbing equipment be cleaned?

The recommended frequency for cleaning leather parts of climbing equipment is every 3 months. Regular cleaning helps maintain the integrity and performance of the leather, which can absorb oils, sweat, dirt, and grime during use. Cleaning every 3 months strikes a balance between ensuring the leather is well-maintained while not being overly burdensome for users. This interval allows any accumulated contaminants to be removed effectively, thus prolonging the life of the equipment and ensuring it remains safe and functional.

In contrast, cleaning less frequently, such as every 6 months or 1 year, might lead to a buildup of dirt and moisture, which can deteriorate the leather over time. Cleaning every month could be excessive for most users, as it may not provide significant benefits compared to a 3-month interval, especially if the equipment is not used frequently.