Caring for a Leather Jacket
Looking after your leather jacket properly will help to extend its life and will ensure that it gives you many years of wear. If you look after your leather jacket correctly you can also help to prevent ripping and cracking which will keep your jacket looking like new and will stop it from letting in the elements. There are a few simple measures which can be taken to keep leather jackets and coats looking, feeling, and smelling wonderful.
Although most leather jackets are preconditioned, you should still apply a leather protector to keep the leather waterproof. Try to use products specifically designed for leather which do not contain waxes and oils. These additives can clog the leather and prevent it from breathing properly.
If your mens leather jacket or ladies leather jacket becomes wet, dry it in at room temperature away from sources of heat or fans. You may find that it will also dry better if it is placed on a towel to absorb water. When the leather is almost dry, add a leather conditioner or moisturiser to keep it supple, and when it has completely dried, add another coat. Caring for your leather jacket well when it gets wet is essential because if it is left the leather can be badly damaged by moisture and mildew.
Other measures that you should take to care for your leather jacket will depend upon the climate and conditions where you live. If you live in a dry location, you should make sure that you frequently apply leather conditioner to keep it from cracking. If you live in a wet location, make sure that you use products designed for waterproofing leather as well as conditioning it, to keep the jacket supple and dry. In snowy conditions, make sure to gently sponge salt off your leather jacket to keep it from damaging the material.
The best way to store your leather jacket is to hang it on a wide padded hanger. Do not wrap leather in plastic or other non-porous materials, because leather needs to breathe. If you must store a leather jacket in a plastic garment bag, leave it open slightly for ventilation. Never fold a leather jacket to store it.