wash-leather

wash-leather (countable and uncountable, plural wash-leathers)

1. Leather that has been treated so as to be very absorbent. Usually made of sheepskin treated with oil, and used for dusting or as an absorbent lining in pockets, gloves, etc.
   • 1887, H. Rider Haggard, Allan Quatermain:

     This combination shirt, of which the seat was made of wash-leather, protected the whole body down to the knees...

   • 1913, E.C. Bentley, Trent's Last Case:

     One of his waistcoat pockets was lined with wash-leather for the reception of his gold watch.

2. Buff leather for regimental belts.

• chamois leather