A leather jacket is the most versatile piece of clothing that complements an outfit with class and sophistication. Cleaning and care are vital steps to ensure that it looks great and durable through the years. It can be an old find or perhaps one of those high-end creations by one of the most popular jacket designers; learning how to clean a leather jacket properly will give durability and a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. Here is what you need to do.
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Always remember to first check the care label found inside your leather jacket before cleaning. Most jacket designers usually have some instructions regarding how you can avoid damaging such leather. You have to follow such guidelines if you want to prevent your jacket from wearing out.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cleaning Materials
Following are the things you will be requiring for cleaning a leather jacket:
- A soft, lint-free cloth
- Mild soap or a mild cleaner designed for leather
- Mild water
- A towel that is dry and absorbent
- Leather Conditioner
Step 3: Treat Spot St
As soon as you notice any stains or marks on your leather jacket, take care of them there and then. Dampen soft fabric with warm water and a little gentle soap. Gently rub the stained point in small circles. Do not soak the leather, as this will ruin it from being too wet. After that process, blot excess moisture out of the area using a dry towel.
Step 4: Inside of the Jacket, General Cleaning
Last, one could use a dressing to fully clean the jacket, and this may be a leather garment dressing. By the use of a soft cloth, one should spread a small amount of the cleaner all over the jacket and wipe it gently over small sections without rubbing hard. Dirt and grime shall be removed from the jacket, but the leather will not be a victim of the process.
Step 5: Proper drying of the jacket
It is very necessary to let your leather jacket dry after cleaning. Use a dry towel or any other material to blot the remaining moisture. After that, hang it in an open, well-aired area where the sun does not shine directly and there is no direct heat source either. Let it air dry. Do not expose it to a hairdryer or other heat sources as that can crack the leather and remove its natural oils.
Step 6: Condition Leather
Once the leather jacket is completely dried, condition it in order to maintain the softness and suppleness of the material. Conditioning also goes a long way to restore natural oils that may get depleted in the cleaning process. Use a soft piece of cloth to apply the conditioner over the whole jacket. Allow it to get absorbed properly for the stipulated period before buffing with a clean cloth to remove the excess conditioner.
Step 7: Put Away the Jacket Properly
Proper storage is crucial in retaining the look and quality of your leather jacket. Hang it on a wide, padded hanger to prevent stretching and distortion. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. And, if you have to cover the jacket, do so with a breathable garment bag that keeps off dust but does not allow moisture to be trapped.
Long-Term Care Tips
- Avoid Excess Moisture: Leather is highly sensitive to water; thus, you should not wear your jacket during heavy rain. If it actually becomes moist, then let it air-dry on its own.
- Regular Conditioning: Condition your leather jacket at least every three months.
- Professional Cleaning: Have your jacket professionally cleaned when you encounter heavy staining or the need for a deep clean using a leather garment-cleaning professional.
Conclusion
The best quality leather will stand the test of time, and properly maintained, it is an article of clothing that can last forever. Whether you have a cherished vintage piece or something a little more contemporary by the best designers, a little care in the form of regular cleaning and a few conditionings will maintain quality leather, keeping your jacket a stylish and functional component of your wardrobe.
