How to Care for Leather Clothing

I have a beautiful leather jacket that a friend gave me this year. I had it cleaned, purchased conditioners for it and keep it in my closet. In Texas, there are certain times of the year a jacket is useful. My jacket is soft black leather. It has a padded red lining that will keep me warm.

Caring for it is easy. I’ll share the method to care for your leather goods so that you do not have to replace them.

It is important to remember that leather was once skin on an animal. The animal’s body provided moisture and oils to keep it supple. Once it is removed and treated to become leather, it must have proper care to remain so.

Here are ways to care for you leather clothing:

• · If your clothing will be exposed to the weather, some type of weatherproofing is a good idea. Try to determine what kind of leather your clothing is made from. A leather shop or experienced dry cleaner can offer advice about the best products to use.
• · For boots, mink oil is a wonderful waterproofing agent. On certain types of leather or dyes, it could affect the color. It is best to test a small spot first or try to ask the manufacturer about the best product to use.
• · In most cases, cleaning with a soft, moist cloth is all that is needed. Do not saturate the leather.
• · If leather clothing has become wet, blot with a towel and allow to dry at room temperature. Do not place in the dryer or use any type of heat on the leather. It will dry out and become stiff.
• · Try to keep your leather clothing in a dry, cool room or place. Extreme temperatures or high humidity can ruin your garment. High humidity promotes mold growth that can ruin your item.
• · Look for leather conditioners made for clothing. You can generally find this in stores where leather clothing is sold. Be sure to follow the directions on the can or bottle. You should seek products that provide UV or waterproof protection.
• ·.
• · Never store your leather garments in plastic bags. Use cloth bags, a sheet or other breathable fabric. Remember, leather is skin. It needs to have air circulation. Plastic will make the leather stiff and could stick to the garment.
• ·. This is a shampoo made for animals. Ensure all soap is rinsed out of the leather. Only clean the spot that needs it.

My leather jacket will last for many years to come. Investing in a few products to condition and weatherproof it is well worth the money. Dry cleaning it every season and storing it in a garment bag made from an old sheet will keep it clean. I do check it every month to ensure no mold is growing on the leather.

Source: Staff Article, “How To Care For Your Leather Clothing And Leather Lingerie,” clothing dictionary.com website, no date given