How to Make Your Ekster Wallet Last: DIY & Care Tips

An Ekster wallet is more than a place to stash your cards. It’s an everyday essential that’s been engineered for years of smooth use. 

But even the smartest wallets need a little TLC. Whether you’re rocking a leather Wallet Pro or the metal Cardholder Pro, a few simple habits can help your gear last longer, work better, and age beautifully.

We’ve gathered every tip, trick, and fix in one place, so you can make your Ekster last and avoid returns, repairs, or wear-and-tear woes.

Why Ekster Gear Needs (Just a Little) Care

We’ve designed our wallets and cardholders using premium, resilient materials (run-them-over-with-a-car kind of strong). But nothing’s completely indestructible. 

Over time, leather softens and stretches, aluminum edges take knocks, and trigger mechanisms can collect dust or jam if misused.

The good news? With just a few mindful practices, your Ekster can stay looking and working like new for years. Let’s break it down.

Part 1: Caring for Your Leather Ekster Wallet

1. Clean with Caution

Leather doesn’t like soap, chemicals, or rough treatment. For everyday dust or stains:

✔️ Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the surface.

✔️ For stubborn marks, use a pH-neutral leather cleaner that doesn’t strip the dye.

✖️ Avoid scrubbing, soaking, or using alcohol-based cleaners.

Tip: Always spot-test your leather cleaner on a discreet area first.

2. Condition Occasionally

If your wallet looks dry or dull:

✔️ Apply a leather conditioner every few months to restore softness and shine.

✔️ Use a tiny amount and buff gently with a microfiber cloth.

This keeps the leather supple and prevents cracks over time.

3. Let the Leather Breathe

✖️ Don’t suffocate your wallet in tight pockets, humid glove compartments, or sealed containers.

✖️ Keep it away from direct sunlight or heaters (which can dry out the leather).

✔️ Store it in a dry, ventilated space. If it gets wet, air dry it flat, away from heat.

4. Give It Time to Settle In

New wallets may feel stiff at first, especially the Wallet Pro with its luxurious Vachetta leather. The outer flap might not stay completely closed right away, but that’s normal.

With regular use, the leather softens, adapts to your cards, and begins to shut naturally and firmly. 

Just like a quality pair of boots, it needs a little love to become the best version of itself.

5. Mind Your Metal Cards

If you’re using a standard Ekster leather wallet, only store metal or paper cards in the flap's pockets, not the inner cardholder. 

Inserting them in the ejection mechanism can cause jams or slippage.

Only the Ekster Wallet Pro and Cardholder Pro can safely store metal cards in the quick-access cardholder.

6. Avoid Back Pocket Pressure

Yes, our wallets are ultra-slim so you barely notice them in your pocket. No, they shouldn’t live in your back pocket full-time.

Sitting on your wallet can warp the leather or crush internal parts. For longevity, carry it in your front pocket or bag.

Part 2: Caring for Your Metal Ekster Cardholder

1. Respect the Card Capacity

Don’t overstuff the quick-access cardholder.

👌 Cardholder: Max 4 embossed or 6 non-embossed cards

👌 Cardholder Pro: Max 5 embossed or 7 non-embossed cards + up to 6 in the backplate

Forcing extra cards can break the trigger mechanism permanently. Stick to the recommended capacity.

2. Watch What You Insert

The cardholder is designed for standard plastic credit cards. Avoid:

✖️ Paper cards (they can jam the mechanism)

✖️ Metal cards (unless you’re using the Cardholder Pro, which supports them)

3. Keep It Clean Inside

If your cards aren’t ejecting smoothly or feel stuck:

✔️ Shake the cardholder upside down.

✔️ Blow high-pressure air into the slot to remove dust and debris. For extra-sticky situations, use a can of compressed air.

If issues persist, don’t pry it open. Instead, reach out to support at via email at nest@ekster.com.

4. Troubleshooting Sticky Cards

Sometimes, irregular card sizes can interfere with ejection. Try this:

1. Insert cards halfway.

2. Gently move them side to side to adjust the internal friction system.

3. Retry the trigger.

Still stuck? You can gently use tweezers to remove the cards, but email us with a video so we can offer better help or start a replacement process if needed.

5. Avoid Hard Drops

That satisfying click of the trigger? It comes from precise engineering. But one hard fall (especially on the corner) can damage it.

✔️ Store it safely in your bag or pocket, not loose with keys or coins.

✖️ Don’t toss it onto hard surfaces.

6. Handle the Trigger with Care

You can click it a thousand times a day (it’s built for it), but avoid slamming or yanking.

If you feel resistance, don’t force it. Never press the trigger while inserting or removing cards manually.

Bonus Tips for All Ekster Wallets and Cardholders

Scratches are natural – Leather and aluminum will show marks over time. Think of them as a story, not a flaw.

Store it smart – Don’t leave your wallet or cardholder crammed in tight spaces where it’s bent or squeezed.

Don’t mix sharp items – Avoid keeping your wallet next to keys, coins, or multitools to prevent unnecessary scratches.

A Wallet That Gets Better With You

Your Ekster is made to go the distance, just like you. With some care, it won’t just last longer; it’ll age with character, tell stories, and stay smooth in your hand every single day. 

A bit of leather cream here, a dust shakeout there, and you're good to go.

Got questions we didn’t answer in this wallet maintenance guide? Reach out anytime with an email to nest@ekster.com. We’ve got your back!

VISIT OUR SUPPORT PAGES FOR MORE WALLET CARE TIPS

FAQ

How many cards can I put in my Ekster Cardholder?
Up to 4 embossed or 6 non-embossed in the Cardholder; 5 embossed or 7 non-embossed in the Cardholder Pro. The backplate can hold 5-6 extra cards.

Can I use metal cards?
Yes, but only in the Cardholder Pro or Wallet Pro. Otherwise, store them in the flap of the Ekster Wallet. Standard cardholders are not designed for metal cards, so keep them under your backplate.

What do I do if the trigger isn’t working?
First, check for overcapacity. Then try compressed air and a gentle shake upside down. Still stuck? Contact nest@ekster.com for help.

How do I clean leather wallets?
Use a soft damp cloth, no soap. For stubborn stains, use a leather-safe cleaner without dye-stripping chemicals.

Can I carry my Ekster in my back pocket?
You can, but we don’t recommend sitting on it. Prolonged pressure can damage the shape and function.

Does the Wallet Pro flap stay closed?
At first, it might not close as tightly as you want it to, but it will over time. The leather softens with time and will eventually shut firmly.

Are scratches on my wallet normal?
Yes. Just like a great pair of leather shoes, your wallet will develop character over time. Condition it occasionally to keep it looking sharp.

What if my cards slide out too easily?
You might be using metal cards or too few cards. Try rearranging them, or switch to a Cardholder Pro for better support.