Leather jackets have a long and rich history, were created for practical reasons in the early 1900s, then refined for use by military personnel during the Second World War. In the 1950s, Hollywood icons began wearing leather jackets to mimic the military aesthetic, popularizing the garment as a fashion statement. From standard aviator jackets to contemporary, ornate designs, leather jackets have maintained their status as a timeless wardrobe staple, and it looks like they will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
Maintaining the quality of your leather jacket requires proper cleaning and care to ensure it stays in your closet.
Caring for your leather jacket
To keep your leather jacket supple, soft, smooth and clean, it's crucial to treat it like the valuable object it is. The first step is to read the manufacturer's label carefully, as it may contain leather-specific care instructions. This may include instructions on how often to waterproof or care for the jacket. In addition, some general guidelines can be followed to preserve the quality of your leather jacket.
Keep your jacket dry.
It's important not to wear your leather jacket in bad weather. If your jacket gets wet, dry it quickly before putting it away.
Hang up your jacket properly.
To avoid creases and cracks in the leather of your jacket, it's important not to leave it folded for too long. Instead, hang it on a wide, preferably padded, hanger in a well-ventilated closet. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can quickly discolor the jacket, especially if it's made of suede. Wire hangers should also be avoided to prevent strange bumps forming on the shoulders. Once hung, it's best to leave room for the jacket in the closet, and not to store it among many other coats.
Keep your jacket away from heat.
When exposed to heat, leather loses its moisture and becomes brittle, eventually cracking. It is therefore essential to keep your leather jacket away from any radiators or heat-emitting vents. It is not advisable to iron leather jackets yourself.
Use a leather care product.
Although leather naturally loses some of its moisture over time, the application of a reliable leather conditioner on treated leather can considerably extend its life.
Don't clean at home.
If you don't have the necessary experience, or if you're not worried about causing irreversible damage to your leather jacket, it's not advisable to try cleaning it yourself. Despite some cleaning labels indicating that leather jackets can be machine-washed, it's imperative to exercise caution, as the slightest mistake can result in serious damage.
Don't hang anything on the jacket.
It is important to note that it is not recommended to apply adhesive badges to suede or leather. If an attempt is made to remove the badge, there is a significant risk that fabric will be unintentionally removed or, in the worst case, that adhesive residue will be left behind.
Professional leather jacket cleaning: when, why and how
It's advisable to have your leather jacket professionally cleaned at least once a year, or more frequently if you wear it frequently, even if you've taken good care of it. A professional cleaner specializing in leather jackets will be able to determine the appropriate cleaning method (dry or wet cleaning) based on factors such as leather type, color and style, and will also know how to effectively remove stains, especially stubborn ones such as ink stains.
In the event that your leather jacket is discolored, cracked or dirty, calling in the services of a professional leather cleaner can restore it to its former glory. Thanks to their expertise, your jacket can be polished to a brilliant shine and any damage can be repaired, allowing you to enjoy it for many years to come.
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