How Long Does a Wallet Last?

A good quality wallet should last 5-10 ten years if you’re using it on a daily basis.

The factors that control this include the quality of the materials, craftsmanship, and how often you use it.

Why is durability so important?

There are a few benefits to choosing a more durable wallet, including:

• Better value - for the most part, you're better purchasing a high quality wallet, than purchasing 4 poor quality wallets over a 10 year period.
• Less waste - by purchasing one wallet over 10 years instead of 3 or 4, you're greatly reducing overall waste, which is better for the environment.
• More professional - cheap wallets tend to look weathered quickly, and you'll likely use it well past the point it looks good, which leads to an unprofessional image.

Imagine showing up to a work event next to your boss, paying for a drink at the bar, and he notices your tatty fabric wallet that looks like you spent $10 on it 10 years ago - his respect for you is going to go down, and you're less likely to get that promotion.

Wallet Materials & Durability Compared

Leather

Image: Classic Bifold from Von Baer

Real leather is both resilient and elegant, and is best if you want to look stylish or professional.

Real leather comes in different grades of quality, with full-grain leather that develops patina being the best (see our best leather for wallets article here).

A standard leather wallet can last around three years, but a premium leather wallet could last for 10+ years if you care for it well.

You will pay more for leather, but it's worth it for most people.

Interested in a luxury leather wallet? Check out the range at Von Baer here.

Metal

If you want to blend modernity with durability, a metal wallet could be for you.

Popular metal options include stainless steel and aluminum. These wallets can last for decades if they are not damaged.

Wallets with RFID blocking are becoming extremely popular amongst the security-conscious.

We've curated a good list of these wallets here.

Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber wallets are renowned for their fantastic strength-to-weight ratio.

They deliver exceptional durability and are scratch, impact, and corrosion resistant.

If you take good care of them, they can last for five years to decades.

You can see a good range of these wallets here.

Synthetic

Synthetic materials are made from materials like nylon and polyester. Although they are more affordable than the wallets mentioned above, they’re not as durable. They can last between one and five years.

Canvas

A canvas wallet could be for you if you need a lightweight yet durable option. These wallets can be great for casual and outdoor use. Although they can last for up to five years, they can be vulnerable when exposed to the elements.

We have a big article on the styles of a men's wallet here.

Contributing Factors to Wallet Longevity

Construction and parts

How a wallet is constructed can greatly influence how durable it is.

Minimal designs that have fewer parts can surpass complex wallets when it comes to longevity.

Moving parts like snaps and zippers tend to wear out quickly.

Wallets manufactured from a number of stitched-together parts also tend to fall short when it comes to longevity.

Materials

Material is also a big influence on the durability of a wallet.

Carbon fiber and metal wallets are amongst the toughest, with leather not too far behind.

Although synthetic and canvas wallets are noted for their durability, they don’t tend to last so long.

If you opt for a wallet made from a higher grade of metal and leather, this is likely to last longer.

Leather is also more professional.

How you carry your wallet

The place where you store your wallet can also affect its durability.

If you regularly store your wallet in your back pocket, this can cause it to wear faster.

Carrying your wallet in a bag or a front pocket can make it last longer.

Slim wallets can be stored in your jacket pocket or front pocket.

Related: Where Should You Store Your Wallet?

How you manage the contents of your wallet

If you overfill your wallet, it could strain and stretch, causing its structure to deteriorate faster.

Try not to overfill your wallet, especially with heavier items.

Learn more about how to put money in a trifold wallet here.

Can a wallet have an emotional connection?

Many people regard their wallets as more than just accessories.

They come to associate them with various milestones and memories.

A wallet's emotional value can grow with time, which is why some people find it hard to let go of it once a number of years have passed.

What kinds of maintenance can I carry out to extend the lifespan of my wallet?

Maintaining a wallet isn’t just about cleaning it occasionally. Proper care can help you extend the life of your wallet substantially:

• Regular cleaning: A soft cloth and mild leather cleaner can help remove grime and dirt from your wallet.
• Conditioning: Apply a good-quality leather conditioner every six to twelve months. This will keep your leather supple and prevent cracking.
• Proper storage: When you’re not using your wallet, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents wallets from fading and drying out.

Is it time to replace my wallet?

Here are some signs that it could be time to replace your wallet.

1. Structural damage: If you’ve noticed that the seams are starting to unravel or that the leather is torn, it could be time to invest in a new wallet.
2. Functional problems: If your current wallet doesn't comfortably hold your essentials, you may need to buy a new one.
3. Aesthetic dissatisfaction: Perhaps the wallet's appearance no longer appeals to you, or it has become worn. If so, consider a replacement.

How can a wallet influence your personal style?

If you want a wallet to reflect your personal style, choose carefully and think about elements like material, color, design, and form.

Look for a material and color that works well with your usual attire and accessories.

A sleek and minimal wallet can convey a different message to a more rugged item.

Choose a wallet that works with your personal aesthetic.

Choosing a sustainable wallet

If sustainability is important to you, seek out a wallet which is made from an eco-friendly material like vegetable-tanned leather (all Von Baer products use vegetable-tanned leather).

You could also buy one made from alternatives to leather or recycled materials.

You might also want to buy from a brand that’s noted for using ethical production methods and sourcing.

Essential points to remember

• Select quality materials and craftsmanship for a long-lasting wallet
• Carry out regular maintenance including cleaning and conditioning to prolong the life of your wallet
• Be vigilant for signs that your wallet needs replacing
• Look for a wallet that’s aligned to your personal style
• Seek out a sustainable wallet if you require an eco-friendly item

The lifespan of a wallet is influenced by your emotional connection with it as well as the materials it’s made from.

No matter how good the craftsmanship and materials are, you’ll still need to use your wallet sensibly and care for it well if you want it to last for many years.

Wallets don’t just carry your daily essentials – they can be a vital part of your journey through life.

Learn more about what is a wallet here.

Understand wallet history at that link, or check our article on types of wallets (link).