How to Wash a Leather Jacket Like a Pro? Do’s & Don’ts

Since a leather jacket is a huge investment! You would never want to discard your favorite leather jacket after wearing it once or twice. 

Real leather is skin and porous therefore it requires regular maintenance to make it look as new as the day you purchased it. However, the cleaning method for synthetic or Faux leather is different from real leather. If you wear your leather jacket more often then you need to wash it every six months otherwise wash it annually.  

If you’re the one who is in a fix on how to wash a leather jacket at home without damaging the leather then you’re at the right place. 

In this guide, I’ll talk about how to wash and condition a leather jacket so that it stays looking beautiful for years to come.   

Materials You’ll Need 

• Mild detergent or leather cleaner
• Distilled water
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Good quality leather conditioner
• Soft brush or cloth for buffing

How to Wash a Leather Jacket at Home? Step-by-Step Tutorial 

Ready to give your leather bomber jacket the TLC it deserves? Follow these steps, and you’ll keep it looking stylish for years to come!

1)Look for Stains on a Leather Jacket

Before diving into the cleaning process, take a moment to assess your leather jacket. Check for any stains, spots, or areas that need particular attention. Understanding the condition of your jacket will help you determine the best approach for cleaning it.

Use Vinegar-Water Solution to Clean Stains

• Mix one part of white vinegar and one part of water and apply to a clean, soft cloth.
• Gently dab at the stain, avoiding excessive rubbing to prevent damaging the leather, and let it dry. The leather will noticeably darken as it absorbs this new liquid but don’t worry.
• Apart from the white vinegar, you can use rice vinegar or malt vinegar.

Another benefit of using vinegar-water solution is that it removes the bad odor.

Now you must be wondering: Is vinegar acidic, and does vinegar fade leather? The answer is yes! But if you use it in diluted form, then it’s quite beneficial. 

2) Prepare the Cleaning Solution

Next, prepare a cleaning solution by mixing mild detergent or leather cleaner with distilled water in a tub or a plastic container. 

Pro Tip: Avoid using tap water, as it may contain minerals that can be harmful to the leather.

Use a Mild Leather Cleaner

Use a mild leather cleaner or a solution of water and mild soap to treat the affected areas. Look for specially formulated leather cleaners designed to clean leather garments and accessories. These cleaners are pH-balanced and gentle on the leather, removing dirt and stains without causing damage.

• Mix 1 part of any mild detergent with eight parts of distilled water in a basin or a bucket.
• Consider buying castile soap, a natural, vegetable-based soap that is gentle and non-abrasive.
• Another gentle product that I recommend is a glycerine soap. Look for glycerine soaps with natural ingredients and no added fragrances or dyes. Baby shampoo is another gentle option for cleaning leather jackets.
• Mix the baby shampoo with water to create a mild cleaning solution, then use a soft cloth to clean the leather gently. It’s formulated to be mild and gentle on delicate skin, making it suitable for leather jackets and other leather items.

3) Submerge the Leather Jacket in soap water

• Fully immerse the leather jacket in the soapy water, ensuring that the entire lining gets wet as you gently swish it through. 
• Carefully distribute the solution throughout the lining by softly squeezing it. Let the jacket soak for approximately ten minutes.
•  Afterward, use a soft-bristled brush, such as an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away any stains.

4) Rinse and Dry

• Remove the jacket from the soapy water and pour out the liquid. 
• Gently press the jacket to remove excess moisture, being careful not to wring it. 
• Refill the container with clean water and use it to rinse the jacket thoroughly. 
• Repeat this process multiple times, changing the water each time, until no soap residue remains in the water.
• Now hand the leather jacket on a sturdy or padded hanger and let it air dry. 

5) Condition the Leather

• Once your leather jacket is clean and dry, it’s time to condition the leather to keep it soft, supple, and moisturized. 
• Apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a soft cloth and gently rub it into the surface of the leather in a circular motion. 
• Pay special attention to areas that tend to dry out more quickly, such as cuffs, collars, and seams.

6) Buff and Polish

Finally, use a soft brush or cloth to buff the leather jacket, removing any excess conditioner and restoring its natural shine. Buffing also helps to smooth out any minor scratches or imperfections in the leather, leaving it looking sleek and polished.

I have gathered some dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind while washing your leather jacket. 

Do’s & Don’ts of Cleaning Your Leather Jacket 

Washing your leather jacket requires a delicate touch to maintain its quality and appearance. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do’s:

• Check the Care Label: Always read the care label on your leather jacket for specific washing instructions. Different types of leather may require different cleaning methods.
• Spot Test: Before washing the entire jacket, spot test a small, inconspicuous area with the cleaning solution to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
• Use Gentle Cleaning Solutions: Opt for mild detergents or specialized leather cleaners for cleaning leather garments such as baby shampoo. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the leather.
• Hand Wash Gently: If hand washing, use a soft sponge or cloth and lukewarm water to clean the surface of the jacket gently. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously, as this can scratch or damage the leather. 
• Air Dry Properly: After washing, gently pat the jacket with a clean, dry towel to remove excess water. Hang the jacket on a padded hanger to air dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight.
• Condition Regularly: To keep your leather jacket supple and prevent it from drying out or cracking, apply a high-quality leather conditioner after washing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
• Store Correctly: When not in use, store your leather jacket in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Use a padded hanger to maintain its shape and prevent creases.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals, solvents, or bleach to clean your leather jacket, as they can damage the leather and cause discoloration.
• Don’t Soak or Submerge For Too Long: Never soak or submerge your leather jacket in water for too long, as this can cause the leather to shrink, warp, or lose its shape.

Conclusion 

By following this washing technique, you can keep it looking nice as well as ready for more adventures. So, as you say goodbye to cleaning, imagine your jacket shining and ready for your next outing. Remember, it’s also very important to invest in some good quality real leather jackets that can be easily washed and cleaned. Taking care of your leather jacket isn’t just something you have to do – it’s a way to show your appreciation and the memories you’ve shared. Cheers to many more stylish adventures ahead! 

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I wash my leather bomber jacket in a washing machine?

No, washing machines can damage leather. Hand washing or using a specialized leather cleaner is recommended.

How often should I condition my leather bomber jacket?

Condition your jacket every 6-12 months or as needed, depending on usage and exposure to elements.

Can I use regular soap to wash my leather jacket?

It’s best to avoid regular soap as it can strip the natural oils from the leather. Opt for a mild detergent or specialized leather cleaner instead.

How do I remove a stain from my leather bomber jacket?

Treat stains immediately with a gentle cleaner specifically designed for leather. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the leather.

Should I hang my leather jacket or fold it for storage?

Hang your leather jacket on a padded hanger to maintain its shape and avoid creases. Folding may cause permanent creases in the leather.