Leather is a delicate material, but it is easy to care for. Take the time to learn how to maintain the condition of a leather jacket, follow the best steps below, and you only need to make an occasional effort to keep your jacket beautiful and beautiful.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Keeping His Condition
Step 1. Make the skin waterproof
There are many "skin protection" or "waterproof" products available, but make sure you read the label carefully before buying. Silicone polymer spray or acrylic copolymer can help preserve the appearance and shine of the skin. Oil or wax based products are more protective, but are not recommended for jackets as these can affect their color, durability, shine and aroma. Check the label on the product to find out how long its water resistance will last. Usually, the product should be re-used once after a few weeks or months.
While this treatment will make your leather jacket waterproof, it can still be damaged, even if the product you purchased says otherwise. Never immerse a leather jacket in water or place it in the washing machine
Step 2. Apply leather conditioner occasionally
This conditioner restores oil to the skin's surface, thereby preventing excessive dryness and chapping conditions. However, too much oil can clog skin pores and affect its color and longevity. Use conditioner only when the jacket starts to feel dry or stiff. Here are some tips to help you choose the right product:
- Check the label to make sure it's suitable for the type of leather you're treating (especially important for suede or nubuck jackets).
- Ideally, you can use pure mink oil, neatsfoot oil, or other natural animal oils, but be aware that these oils can darken the skin tone.
- Products that contain wax or silicone can dry out the skin, but they may be less expensive and less discolored. Use sparingly.
- Never use products that contain mineral oil or petroleum. Both of these substances can cause significant damage. Also avoid "saddle soap," at least don't apply it to skin that hasn't been coated with a waterproof protective agent.
Step 3. Polish a fine leather jacket occasionally
Leather polish will make it look shiny, although it can discolor, dry out, or clog the pores. Use it only for special occasions, and do a test run on an invisible area first before you use a new product. Wipe with a cloth to create a shiny surface.
- Do not polish suede or other leather that is soft and supple. Suede can't shine unless you permanently change its texture.
- Do not use shoe polish, even if it is intended for leather shoes.
Step 4. Wipe off salt deposits with a damp cloth
In humid weather, salt deposits can build up on the skin. Wipe with a damp cloth to prevent dryness and cracking of the leather. Allow the skin to dry naturally, then apply conditioner to the areas where the salt has accumulated.
Step 5. Dry skin naturally
If your jacket gets wet, hang it on a hanger to dry at room temperature. Remove items from the pockets to prevent the wet jacket from stretching, and keep it away from direct sources of heat, such as radiators. Apply conditioner after dry skin if it was really wet before.
Step 6. Learn how to remove wrinkles
Keeping the jacket hanging will prevent and get rid of minor wrinkles. If you are bothered by large wrinkles, take the jacket to a professional leather nurse. Alternatively, you can iron it on the lowest setting (usually labeled "rayon"). Place the leather under the cloth and iron it quickly and briefly.
See the how to save section for more detailed information
Part 2 of 3: Cleaning Leather Jackets
Step 1. Read the specific instructions on the jacket label
Almost all leather jackets sold in stores have a label containing instructions for cleaning them. Since there are many variations of leather, not all of which can be easily distinguished, follow the specific instructions on this label at all times. The steps below are usually safe to follow, although no specific method is guaranteed to work safely on all skin types.
Step 2. Clean the leather from dust with a soft brush or cloth
If the leather jacket has been in the closet for a long time, you may need to clean it of dust. To prevent damage or cracking of the leather, use a dry cotton cloth, nubuck, or a camel hair brush.
Step 3. Clean the coated leather with a damp cloth
Do a test run on the jacket first; drip water on it. If water remains on the surface, this means that you can safely remove dirt from the jacket using a slightly damp cloth. If water is absorbed and makes your skin tone darker, don't use water.
Step 4. Clean the suede with a special brush or dry sponge
A "suede brush" can remove a thin layer of oil from suede but may damage other leather materials. You can try using a dry sponge as an easier option. Do not use this method on non-suede or unidentified leather.
This will work best if you hang the suede first in a steamy bathroom. Do not steam suede directly with an iron or kettle, as the heat can damage the leather
Step 5. Rub the gum eraser
This method is effective on suede but make sure you test it on a hidden area before using it. Rub it over the dirty area to remove any dust or ink stains from the suede jacket. If the wiper residue sticks to the jacket, remove it with a vacuum cleaner on a slow setting or compressed air.
This type of eraser is sometimes called an "artist's eraser" and is sold at many craft stores. Its surface is like clay and crumbles when used. Don't mistake it for a "kneaded eraser", which is similar but won't break
Step 6. Choose skin cleansing products carefully
Use only products that are suitable for your skin type. For the ideal choice, look for products made by your tailoring company. Make sure you always test on a hidden area to anticipate discoloration or damage. Leave the product on for at least five minutes then wipe it off with a clean cloth. If the leather isn't damaged, you can use the related product on the jacket while following the instructions.
- Suede or nubuck should only be treated with products specifically made for these types. Leather labeled as aniline, semi-aniline, or pigmented leather can probably be cleaned with a common leather cleaner, but make sure you always test it on a hidden area first.
- You can buy an ink smudge remover for the skin, although this product is not 100% effective once the ink has soaked into the skin.
Step 7. Remove the mushrooms with rubbing alcohol or a mild soap
If your leather jacket has mildew, which usually appears as a white or gray coating, mix the water and alcohol in a balanced ratio. Wipe off the fungus with a damp cotton cloth that has been moistened with this mixture. If that doesn't work, try a mild antibacterial soap with water. Wipe off any remaining liquid with a dry cotton cloth when finished.
Step 8. Take the jacket to a dry cleaner who specializes in treating leather
If the methods above don't work to remove the stain from your jacket, take it to a dry cleaner that specifically advertises leather cleaning services. Check with the cleaners to make sure they know how to treat your skin type and are able to clean the stain.
Never wash leather in the washing machine or sink
Part 3 of 3: Storing Leather Jackets
Step 1. Hang on a stiff hanger
A wide, stiff hanger is the best option to minimize wrinkles and stretch. Avoid clothespins, as these pins can put a lot of pressure on a small area of the jacket.
Step 2. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
Sunlight can fade skin color or cause discoloration of freckles. Heat can cause dryness and cracking, so store the jacket in a cool location away from ventilation and other sources of heat.
Step 3. Make sure the skin can "breathe"
Your skin will last longer when exposed to dry air, especially when the airflow is light. Never store leather in plastic bags or under plastic sheets. When you temporarily store leather in your bag, open the bag whenever possible to expose the leather to air.
You can store your jacket in a closet, unless it's very hot or humid
Step 4. Keep skin away from pesticides
The skin can absorb it. If this happens, the smell or poison of the pesticide may not be able to be removed from the jacket. In addition, camphor and other household pesticides are most effective when used in small containers, which are not ideal for storing leather clothing.
Step 5. Dry the jacket before storing it
If you want to store the jacket for a long period of time, dry it first to kill pests and get rid of odors. This will reduce the chances of the jacket being attacked by pests, but you should still check the storage area for pest control.
Tips
- Love the worn leather jacket. It's important to care for and maintain a jacket, but leather is a natural material and will wear out with time (or, in better terms, "show character") and use. However, many people actually like the look of leather like this, especially on motorcycle or "bomber" jackets.
- If the hem of your leather jacket is a little dirty, try using a vacuum cleaner on a low setting to clean it.
- You don't need to use "leather food" or "hide food" products if you already use modern leather conditioners.
