Knowing how to care for a leather jacket is what keeps it looking good for years instead of seasons. The good news is that it does not take much: a few simple habits cover most of it. This guide covers hanging, cleaning, conditioning, drying and storage, plus what to do with shearling.
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Why You Should Care for a Leather Jacket
Leather is a natural material, and like skin it dries out, cracks and fades when it is ignored. A little regular attention is what lets a leather jacket soften and improve with age instead of wearing out. If you care for a leather jacket properly, it can last for decades, which is why the habits below are worth building early.
Hang It on a Wide Hanger
A thin wire hanger pulls the shoulders out of shape over time. Use a wide, shaped hanger so the shoulders keep their line, and leave a little space around the jacket in the wardrobe so the leather can breathe. Avoid hanging it in direct sunlight, which can dry out and fade the surface.
Clean It Gently
To care for a leather jacket in daily use, start with the simplest step. For everyday dust and light marks, wipe the jacket with a soft, slightly damp cloth and let it dry naturally. Do not scrub, and do not put a leather jacket in a washing machine. For heavier stains, take it to a specialist leather cleaner instead of trying strong products at home.
Condition It Once or Twice a Year
Leather is a natural material, and it needs moisture to stay supple. Use a conditioner made for leather once or twice a year, and test it on a hidden spot first, such as inside the hem. Apply a thin layer with a soft cloth, let it soak in and wipe off the excess. Over time, the biker leather jackets and other styles soften and take on your shape, and conditioning helps that process.
What to Do If It Gets Wet
Light rain is usually fine. If the jacket gets soaked, blot it with a clean towel, hang it on a wide hanger and let it dry slowly at room temperature. Never use a hairdryer, radiator or direct sun to speed it up, because fast heat makes leather stiff and can cause cracks.
Store It Properly
Storage is where most damage happens, because a jacket can sit for months without anyone noticing a problem. A few minutes of preparation at the end of winter is the best way to care for a leather jacket you will want to wear again next year.
At the end of the season, brush off any dust, check that the jacket is fully dry and hang it in a cool, dry, airy place. Use a breathable cover rather than plastic, which traps moisture and can lead to mould. Do not fold a leather jacket for long periods, because creases can set into the surface.
Care for Shearling
A shearling jacket has a few extra rules because of the wool lining. Keep it dry, let it air dry slowly away from heaters if it gets damp, and brush the wool side gently to keep it fresh. Store it on a wide hanger in a breathable bag, and use a specialist cleaner who works with shearling for a full clean. You can see the range in our shearling jackets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The mistakes that damage a leather jacket most often are drying it near a heater, storing it in a plastic bag, hanging it on a thin hanger, using strong household cleaners and putting on too much conditioner. Too much conditioner can leave the surface sticky and attract dirt, so a thin layer twice a year is plenty.
A Simple Seasonal Routine
Before winter, take the jacket out, check the zips and seams and give it a wipe. During the season, hang it up after each wear. When the season ends, clean it lightly, condition it and store it in a cool, dry, airy place. That short routine is enough to care for a leather jacket through every season without much effort.
When to Use a Specialist
Take your jacket to a specialist if it has a large stain, a strong smell, deep scuffs or any damage to the lining. A specialist can often fix what home care cannot, and it is worth it for a jacket you plan to keep for years.
Common Questions
How often should I condition my leather jacket?
Once or twice a year is enough for most jackets. If the leather looks dry or feels stiff, condition it a little sooner.
Can I wash a leather jacket?
No. Do not machine wash it. Wipe it with a damp cloth, and use a specialist cleaner for a full clean.
How do I get a smell out of a leather jacket?
Air it in a shaded, airy spot for a day or two. If the smell stays, a specialist cleaner can help.
Want advice for a specific jacket? Send us an enquiry or message us on WhatsApp, and we will help. You can also read our leather jacket FAQ or browse the full shop. We ship worldwide.
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