6 Essential Tips: Caring for Your Leather Jacket at Home
Leather jackets are known for their durable and long-lasting materials. People commonly wear these types of clothing during fashion shows, formal events, and the cold seasons. Furthermore, these outfits get more recognition when several big-time actors wear them on the big screen.
Cleaning it yourself should not be your biggest concern despite its complicated composition. Don’t worry since there are only a few simple practices to follow that maintain its quality. Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
#1: Check the Label on Your Leather Jacket
There are so many different types of leather jackets that serve various purposes. For instance, manufacturers can make some jackets from antelope, buckskin, goatskin, sheepskin, horsehide, and cowhide. On the other hand, jacket manufacturers can also produce them in various styles, such as for bikers, racers, or Westerners. The point of that explanation is that there is no one-size-fits-all method to clean leather jackets. Check your label for the cleaning directions and identify whether it is water-resistant. Follow their further instructions whenever possible.
Additionally, different types of leather require varying levels of care. For example, softer leathers like lambskin or goatskin may need gentler cleaning methods than the more durable cowhide. Using the wrong products can damage the leather‘s finish, causing it to crack or lose its natural sheen. It makes following the label’s instructions even more critical to prolong the life of your jacket.
#2: How to Properly Apply Leather Conditioner
Leather conditioners restore your leather jacket’s natural oils and moisture. Additionally, it prevents your jacket from showing unwanted cracks. Regular use can clog the jacket’s pores and affect its color or durability. This tip will help you with your leather jacket maintenance. The suggested time to apply it is when your leather looks stiff or cracked. When selecting your conditioner, look for pure mink, neatsfoot, or other natural animal oils. Don’t apply mineral oil or petroleum as it damages your leather. As an additional tip, check the tag or label again when using it.
Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently rub the conditioner into the leather in small, circular motions to ensure even application. Let it sit for a few minutes, allowing the leather to absorb the conditioner fully, then wipe away any excess with a clean cloth. Avoid applying too much, as this can lead to a greasy finish and attract dirt. Proper conditioning not only enhances the look of your jacket but also keeps the leather supple and protected from the elements.
#3: Use Leather Polish Sparingly for Exceptional Cases
If your jacket has lost its shine due to UV exposure, using leather polish for your leather coat can restore its appearance. Test it first on hidden areas before applying it overall. Leather jacket polish can indeed enhance its shine. However, it would help if you only employed it sparingly or in exceptional cases. Discoloration, drying out, or clogging its surface might occur if you apply it regularly. Although shoe polish is the best recommended for leather shoes, don’t try putting it on your leather jacket. It will cause your jacket to clog, dry, and discolor.
When you use polish, select a product specifically designed for leather jackets. These polishes are typically formulated with a balance of oils and waxes to provide shine without damaging the leather. Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, working it gently into the surface, and then buff it out for a smooth, polished finish. Remember, less is more when it comes to polishing, as overuse can lead to buildup and reduce the breathability of your leather.
#4: Gently Dust the Jacket with a Soft Brush or Cloth
You can avoid leather jacket degradation by regularly dusting it. Integrating this procedure will remove dirt, dust, or debris from your outfit. If it has been in your closet for so long, you may need to dust it. To prevent scratches and damage to your leather jacket, avoid harsh materials. Use a dry cotton cloth, nubuck cloth, or camel hair brush instead since it is softer than other cleaning materials. Additionally, pay attention to pockets and other areas where dust may accumulate. This simple practice can keep your jacket clean and neat in the long term.
For jackets that have accumulated more stubborn dust or dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water, but be careful not to soak the leather. Wipe the surface gently, avoiding excessive rubbing, which can lead to abrasion. After cleaning, allow the jacket to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can dry out the leather. Regularly dusting and spot cleaning will help maintain the jacket’s appearance and extend its life.
#5: Use Specialized Products to Clean Your Coat
After dusting your coat, it is time for you to wash it. It is the most critical stage, but cleaning it yourself should be a minor concern. If you’re using specialized leather cleaners, ensure they’re safe for your jacket’s type of leather. Avoid regular detergents, as they can strip away natural oils and cause the leather to crack. Also, be mindful of how much water you use during the process. Too much moisture can damage the leather’s structure. Return to the first step, where this blog discussed reading manufacturer tags or labels. This step will guide you on how to clean it and check its water resistance.
Here are some frequently asked questions I can answer to guide you further.
- Can I Use Water to Clean My Leather Jacket?
Yes, you can wash it with a damp cloth. These clothes are usually slightly wet and designed to clean leather jackets. Before using water, test it in hidden areas. You can consider yourself safe if a small amount of water remains on the surface of your coat. However, if it absorbs and darkens, discontinue it immediately.
When using water, ensure the cloth is damp and not soaked, as too much moisture can weaken the leather and lead to long-term damage. If your jacket is water-resistant, it will likely repel the moisture, but if it isn’t, always be cautious and use water sparingly. For deeper cleaning, it’s best to rely on specialized leather cleaners or consult a professional to avoid accidental damage.
- Can I Clean My Suede Jacket with a Dry Sponge?
Of course. These sponges remove light dirt and surface debris from suede without damaging its texture. However, it’s important to note that while dry sponges work well on suede, they may scratch or damage other leather materials, exceptionally smooth or polished leather. That’s why it is highly recommended not to try this method if you’re unsure about your leather type. For suede jackets, consider using a suede brush or a special eraser to help lift stains and refresh the nap. Always brush in the same direction to maintain the material’s natural look and avoid excessive pressure, which can flatten the suede.
- How Can I Remove Mold from My Leather Jacket?
Typically, mold appears on your leather jacket if you store it in humid conditions. It is advisable to store it in dry conditions to prevent it from happening again. There are some approaches to cleaning them. One of the most effective ways to remove them is to wash them with rubbing alcohol or mild soap. Do this by wiping the affected area with equal parts of rubbing alcohol or mild soap and water.
- Can I Use a Washing Machine for My Leather Jacket?
As a general rule from authoritative sources like WikiHow, never wash your leather jacket in a washing machine. It would help if you did not believe the internet hoax that washing machines are safe for leather jackets. It will deteriorate your jacket’s quality since it loses its natural oils. Further, this will result in cracks over time as the leather dries out.
- What Is the Best Time to Consult a Professional?
If your coat gets exposed to intense stains, contacting a cleaner specializing in leather care is the best way. Professional cleaners have the expertise and specialized products needed to handle stubborn stains and deep cleaning without risking damage to the leather. Attempting to fix significant issues alone, especially without proper training or knowledge, could exacerbate the problem and potentially cause irreversible damage.
Additionally, a professional can offer repairs and restoration services beyond superficial cleaning if your leather jacket has structural issues, such as tears or peeling. When in doubt, always consult a professional to ensure you treat your coat with the care it requires.
#6: Properly Store Your Leather Jacket
After cleaning your leather jackets, it’s time to store them properly. Proper storage is essential to extend the life of your leather jacket and keep it looking its best. This procedure will help you maintain jacket quality and avoid complications. Here are the simple tips to ensure your coat can breathe in your closet.
- If you want to hang it in your closet, use a padded clothes hanger. This strategy will allow you to minimize wrinkles on your jacket. Additionally, avoid using thin wire hangers since they can distort over time. If you are bothered by wrinkles in your coat, professional leather cleaners can help you with those matters.
- Don’t expose it to sunlight. Putting your leather in direct sunlight can fade its color or cause uneven discoloration. Meanwhile, the heat can cause your clothing to dry out and crack. Store your leather jacket in a dark room to protect it from UV rays.
- Avoid storing it in plastic bags or airtight containers. Doing so can trap moisture and lead to mildew or mold growth. Use breathable garment bags or cotton dust covers to protect your jacket while allowing air circulation.
Furthermore, ensure your storage area is cool and dry to prevent any moisture buildup, which can contribute to leather deterioration. Following these steps can keep your leather jacket looking its best for years.
Conclusion
See? Caring for your leather jacket at home is not as challenging as it may seem. Just follow these practices, and I’m sure you can maintain its style and durability for the long term. Always remember to follow these six steps.
