I have an old WWII, I think, smooth brown leather aviator cap that is in good condition and would like to treat it to bring back its original suppleness.

You could try a leather restore product or you could use mink oil or both. The secret with old leather is to keep it supple before it gets cracked. There are some good leather restore products available at Army and Navy stores that the government uses but I think they've discontinued the products from the govt. Back in the early 2000's I would get a government leather restore item at the A&N stores but lately my A&N store does not carry it. I know that Kiki Shoe Products does have a good leather restore product. You want to have a lotion so you can slobber it onto the leather, wipe of excess and redo in a few days.

Hi, Anda471!

Mink oil has already been mentioned. Saddle soap would be something else that you might want to try.

Thanks!

Murphy's oil soap works well, too. Not only does it soften the leather, but it also cleans it.

murphy's oil soap works well, too. not only does it soften the leather, but it also cleans it.

That's a good idea too, hheath541! :)

You'll find it with the furniture polish and wood oils, but it's perfectly safe on leather. The labels even says so.

Thanks, I have some Murphys Oil Soap, I never thought of that. Thank you again!