How to Maintain Leather Jackets

Leather has been use to make quality clothing for over 5,000 years. The first known tanners set up shop in twelfth century England. The beauty and durability of leather never goes out of fashion. Over time, leather will develop a handsome surface patina. While leather garments are expensive, if given good care, a leather jacket can easily last a lifetime. The best way to care and maintain your leather jacket is to wear it.

• Store your jacket in a well ventilated place, never in the attic or cellar. Leather needs to breathe to stay in good condition. When storing your jacket, or even when hanging it in the closet, never cover it with plastic. Plastic will cause the leather to dry out. If you want to protect the jacket from dust or dirt, cover it with a cotton sheet or cloth. Use padded or wooden hangers to help keep the jacket’s shape. Wrinkles and creases will usually smooth out.


• Keep sharp or heavy objects, such as keys out of the pockets. You don’t want to rip the pockets or stretch them out of shape.


• Try not to get your leather jacket wet. If you do go out in the rain, be sure it has been treated with a water proofing product made especially for leather. There are over the counter products you can use or have a professional do it.


• Remove mold or mildew before it spread over the jacket.  An inexpensive home remedy is equal parts of rubbing alcohol and water. Dab with a damp, clean cloth or spray the mildew. If there is a large area involved, take to professional leather cleaner.  Rubbing alcohol will also work on ink stains.


• Wipe up any spills as soon as possible. First try cool water, then warm water and mild soap to wash away the spill. Let it dry at room temperature. Never put a leather jacket in the washing machine or dryer.


• Treat oily or greasy stains with cornstarch. Sprinkle it over the stained area and let sit for several hours overnight to absorb the stains.  Don’t rub it in and gently wipe it off.


• Rubbing the leather with Saddle Soap or other leather moisturizers will clean and maintain the softness of your leather jacket; preserving it beautiful condition for years to come.


• Spot test before using any cleaner, homemade or commercial, before using it. You don’t want to further harm the leather. Read the cleaning label that comes on your leather jacket and follow its advice.