Leather is an investment. And investments need to be protected accordingly.
Leather jackets are a statement piece that everyone needs to have in this day and age. They are stitched into the very fabric of fashion, so you fail to stand out without one. Leather jackets define fashion in numerous ways that cannot be ignored. Thus, it is very important to know how to preserve their lifespan.
These jackets are incorporated into every aspect of our lives. From running basic, everyday errands to cosplaying a favorite character to attending a high-profile event, leather jackets are the life of every party. But after continuous use, you might notice the dullness in the shine, a roughness to the smooth texture of the garment and even stiffness.
You might find yourself in such positions, but fear not. Read on below to find out how to clean a leather jacket and what are the best products to clean your leather jacket in a safe manner.
A Guide of Basic Steps to Cleaning a Leather Jacket at Home
First, let’s explore how the usual cleaning goes. If your leather jacket is particularly dirty and needs a proper clean-up, follow all the steps listed below. But if it is a routine leather jacket cleaning, then skip steps 2 and 3 and move on to step 4 right after step 1.
Step 1: Dusting
For this step, you’ll need a soft cloth, preferably a microfiber cloth, or a brush with soft bristles. Any harsher and the leather will be damaged. With the cloth or brush, dry wipe the leather in gentle circles to dust away the dust or any oil buildup. Remember to keep your approach soft with this step.
Step 2: Soap Solution
For this step, you’ll be making a soap solution in case your jacket needs proper cleaning. Take two teaspoons of liquid detergent and mix it with some warm water to create a mild cleaning solution. The solution is delicate enough to not cause any damage to your jacket and allow a safe cleaning.
Step 3: Jacket Cleaning
Use a similar soft cloth or a sponge and soak it in the solution you prepared for a few minutes. Squeeze the material to rid it of any excess water. Leave the material just wet enough so it’s not dripping. Then gently blob the jacket. Do not rub the cloth or the sponge over the material at all; otherwise, it will leave watermarks. Gently blob the problem areas, such as any water spots, oil residue, or discoloration. Remember, in this scenario, less is more.
Step 4: Cleaning the Soap
Afterwards, use a separate cloth and lightly wet it. Wipe down the jacket to remove the soapy solution. Do not use too much moisture, or it’ll ruin the leather. Once done, wipe the jacket with a dry cloth to remove any standing water, which can also harm the garment. Then, hang the jacket somewhere cool. Do not make haste and try to use hair dryers or direct sunlight to dry the jacket faster.
Step 5: Interior Cleaning
To clean the inside of the jacket, you can use the same soap solution and a soft cloth or sponge. Wet the cloth/sponge—but make sure it’s not dripping—and wipe down the inner lining. Pay closer attention to underarms, cuffs and collar areas. To dry, hang the jacket in a cool, dry place and do not use direct heat or sunlight to speed up the process.
The inside of the jacket might not be visible, but it needs to be taken care of just as much as the outside of a leather jacket. The lining can be affected by odor buildup and sweat, which can compromise the leather later on.
Significance of Maintaining Leather Jackets
Leather maintenance is not just a casual practice but requires attention and skill. As mentioned before, leather jackets are an investment, especially authentic leather jackets. Not only do they cost a pretty penny, but they also require special care in terms of storage and use.
Authentic leather jackets, while durable, are still prone to getting damaged if not taken care of properly. Leather is a natural element; it’s animal hide that is tailored into outerwear. And animal skin is a porous substance that requires hydration to remain pliable and strong.
Environmental elements like direct sunlight can cause leather to fade and turn brittle. Similarly, with heat, the leather can crack, and too much moisture can cause mildew and mold to grow. If the leather jacket is not conditioned properly, it can also dry out. That is because the natural oils in the leather deplete and also cause stiffness and brittleness.
Neglect and failure to preserve leather jackets will only cost you in the end. So, once you’re aware that you need to be proactive in order to maintain a leather jacket, you can start looking towards what’s the best way to clean a leather jacket.
Home-Friendly Methods of Cleaning Leather Jackets
Let’s discuss the ways you can clean a leather jacket easily and safely in your home. The products listed below are things that can be easily found within homes. Even if you have to purchase them, they don’t cost you a lot. Some of them are:
Soap and Water Mixture
One of the most straightforward and most accessible ways to clean a leather jacket is by making a solution of soap and water. Use a soft cloth, again preferably a microfiber cloth, or a new soft sponge and wet it with the solution, but make sure it’s not dripping with the solution. Rub gentle circles over the garment and then dab it dry with a separate dry cloth. Repeat the process until you’re done with the entire jacket.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is best for removing mold or mildew from leather jackets. You need to mix the rubbing alcohol with water in a bowl in a 1:1 ratio. Then, using a microfiber cloth, rub the problematic areas gently until the mold or mildew comes off. Rub with a separate moist cloth to remove any residual alcohol solution.
Mildew and mold grow on leather due to the excess of moisture, so in order to prevent future damage, store your leather jackets and garments in a cool, dry place.
Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish removers contain alcohol that also helps in removing stains, especially ink stains. Use a cotton ball and dip it lightly in the remover, and gently blot the affected area. If you rub, the stain would spread, so hold your hand. Once done, gently wipe the residue with a moist cloth and then with a dry paper towel.
Chemical Powders
Substances like baking soda, baby powder and/or cornstarch are incredible for removing oil stains. Pour over a little of any of the powders as mentioned above onto the problem areas on the leather jacket. Then rub in gentle circles over those spots with a moist—not wet—microfiber cloth. Let the resulting paste sit for several hours to overnight, depending on the damage. Then wipe off the paste with a clean cloth and dry it with a soft towel.
Toothpaste
Another really easy way to clean your leather jackets is to use toothpaste. Gently rub some on the affected areas with a soft microfiber cloth. If you exert more force than necessary, the leather will suffer scratches or discoloration. So, take it easy. Let the paste sit for 10 seconds and then wipe it with a damp cloth.
Best Cleaning Products for Your Leather Jackets
Having discussed the home remedies for cleaning leather jackets, let’s move on to what to do if none of those remedies work. That is a sign that the job is bigger than initially thought. Either you call in experts or bring in the big guns yourself.
Leather cleaning and conditioning are important because they keep the leather moisturized, soft, and supple, preventing it from drying out, cracking, and deteriorating over time. Regular maintenance also removes dirt and stains, preserves the material’s natural oils, and creates a protective layer that extends the jacket’s lifespan, keeping it looking great and maintaining its durability.
Listed below are some of the best leather cleaners and conditioners:
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Leather Honey Leather Cleaner & Leather Honey Leather Conditioner
Known for their all-natural, non-toxic formulas that effectively infuse leather with moisture and protect it from the elements.
2. Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner & Conditioner Kit
Offers excellent overall performance, making leather look brand new and effectively cleaning with a two-in-one approach.
3. Weiman Leather Cleaner
A highly-regarded option for its impressive balance of strong cleaning power and a soft, pleasant feel on the leather.
4. Lexol Cleaner & Lexol Conditioner
A popular choice offering great value for both cleaning and conditioning your leather.
5. Meguiar’s Ultimate Leather Detailer
A great choice when you want a combination of strong cleaning and a fresh, clean, apple-like scent.
6. Leather CPR 2-in-1 Leather Cleaner & Conditioner
An effective all-in-one product that not only cleans but also conceals wear and tear, leaving leather soft and conditioned.
7. OBSSSSD Leather Cleaner & Conditioner
A strong contender, this brand offers dedicated products for both cleaning and conditioning your leather.
8. Primal Instinct Interior Leather Cleaner
A straightforward, affordable, and effective cleaner that leaves leather smelling good and feeling non-sticky.
9. 3D LVP (Leather, Vinyl, Plastic) Cleaner
An excellent choice for multi-surface interior cleaning, this pH-balanced, biodegradable cleaner is safe for various materials and provides a fresh, light scent.
10. Leather Afterlife Leather Conditioner
Made from non-toxic materials, this is an all-in-one conditioner that works on a variety of leather products.
Points to Take into Consideration
When selecting a conditioner, there are a few points that need to be taken into consideration. These help in making the decision over which one is the best for your needs.
Leather Darkening
Some leather conditioners contain natural oils like beeswax or neatsfoot oil that darken the leather once applied. These conditioners are fine to use on dark-toned jackets. Still, if you have a leather jacket in a lighter shade and do not want to compromise the color, then you need to make sure your conditioner is free of these elements.
You can easily look online about which conditioners darken leather and which do not. Or check the ingredients on the back of the containers, or do a patch test.
Cleaning Properties
Some conditioners have two-in-one properties where they function as a cleaner and a conditioner. It seeps into the pores of the jacket and removes the dirt, and then proceeds with the conditioning. They contain a pH-balanced ingredient that helps achieve this.
However, suppose your leather jacket gets dirty more often and requires routine cleaning. In that case, it might be more apt to buy a cleaner and conditioner kit where both solutions are separate. This will give you a more thorough clean. But if you clean your jacket once in a while, then a two-in-one conditioner is perfect.
Toxic Ingredients
Conditioners can have toxic ingredients that can be harmful to the jacket as well as the wearer. A leather jacket is a clothing garment that stays in contact with your skin, so it is very important to verify that the conditioner does not contain any toxic elements that might harm you. Do thorough research before buying such products. Toxic ingredients can also harm your leather jacket because of their harshness.
UV Proof
Your jacket might spend a good amount of time under the sun if you wear it casually, as most people now do. This prolonged exposure to the sunlight also causes damage. So a conditioner with UV protection is a better fit for you.
Fashion With Caution
Leather jackets are not a passing trend that will die sooner or later. They are a fashion statement that is here to stay. So it only makes sense to be educated on how to preserve and take care of these iconic pieces of fashion.
Shop at New American Jackets, where you can find loads of new leather looks. Share with us any tips you think would work even better for taking care of our precious leather.
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