Haveston canvas straps - long term durability test

[magirus]

Thank you for this marvellously informative thread!

I know that washing machines have been mentioned a couple of times. Have you had enough experience to know if the machine does the straps any harm?

Have a 1943 and a 1944 on the way, and don't want to damage them! The website says hand wash only, but maybe a gentle cycle will be ok?

The only canvas strap that I have at the moment is this one from CWC. Have been putting it in a 30 degree wash with with Nikwax, not detergent, and it seems to be surviving. However, it doesn't get worn very often.

Cheers!

I can't really comment on washing the straps long term in a washing machine. All I ever do is run a tap to the temp I wash my hands at, work up a lather with liquid antibacterial soap (the "Cien" brand from Lidl) and wash the already soaked strap between my hands. Then a good rinse and a pat with the towel and out on the washing line. As far as I can tell this works fine with no problems.

[Cornholio]

Excellent! Thank you 😊

[abraxas]

I can't really comment on washing the straps long term in a washing machine. All I ever do is run a tap to the temp I wash my hands at, work up a lather with liquid antibacterial soap (the "Cien" brand from Lidl) and wash the already soaked strap between my hands. Then a good rinse and a pat with the towel and out on the washing line. As far as I can tell this works fine with no problems.

When I put them in the washing machine I tie each strap in a sock. I've washed the Forecastle once and the 1918c twice, and I don't intent of washing them any more. I much prefer the 'used' look but not "too used".

[Cornholio]

Thank you both for the feedback.

Absolutely delighted with the straps. Ordered Friday afternoon, arrived Saturday morning.

The 1943 is deliciously soft straight out of the tin and is a joy to wear. The floating keeper adjusts for the perfect fit, and the look is just what I was wanting.

1944 is still in its cardboard box. Will put it on next week.

Many thanks too for this detailed and inspiring thread. I'll be buying a few more...

Cheers!

Gavin.

[magirus]

Well, my newest example of the 20mm Forecastle (canvas keepers) was resolutely staying a flat shade of grey and not lightening up nicely like it's three 20mm bretheren, which are the older style with metal keepers. You can see this in the picture below on my DC56, next to a suitably faded example on the DA37. Hmmm.





Now then, what is the model of the strap on the 36mm Everest to the right I hear you ask? That's an 18mm version of the Forecastle that was also very naughty with regards to my fading expectations. How did it change colour I hear you ask?

Take some stain remover, bleach and water. Mix carefully, very carefully - you don't want to splash this anywhere. Insert strap, check frequently to check progress, remove rinse, wash, rinse then out on the washing line to air dry.











For comparison, L to R, unused Bakelite-F, faded Bakelite-F, faded M-1918C, altered Forecastle on Everest.





Finally, the 20mm example suitably treated, albeit a very slightlydifferent shade to the 18mm.





The treated straps are closer in colour then my pictures show, and the untreated version looks a lot better than it's actual drabness.