Leather jackets have been a timeless fashion piece for years, known for their durability and classic style. They were first created in the early twentieth century for practical purposes and later improved for military use during WWII. Over time they were popularized in the 1950s by none other than Hollywood stars seeking to replicate that military Look. Since then, it has become a trendy wardrobe piece, whether in the form of a classic bomber or a sleek modern coat, and it appears to be here for a long stay. Therefore, to ensure that your leather jacket lasts in your closet, care and maintenance is important. So, in this guide I will share the best tips on how to clean and maintain a leather jacket so it stays in top shape for years to come
Why Leather Jacket Maintenance is Important

How to Clean a Leather Jacket

Remove Dust and Dirt
Before you use products, pick a soft cloth or microfiber towel to gently wipe away the dust and dirt from the surface of the jacket.
Use a Leather Cleaner
It's important to use a cleaner which is designed for leather. Apply it to a soft cloth and gently rub in circular motions. Never use soaps or detergents.
Wipe Off Excess Cleaner
After cleaning the jacket use a dry cloth to wipe remaining cleaner from the jacket. Do not leave any dirt that may damage the leather. For a more in-depth guide, read our How to Care for Your Leather Jacket blog post.
Dry Naturally
Hang the jacket on a hanger and let it air dry at room temperature. Do not use a hair dryer because high heat can dry out the leather.
Leather Jacket Care: Conditioning and Protection
Leather jackets can dry and lose their shine if you do not condition them properly. Here's how to keep it soft.

Apply Leather Conditioner
Once the jacket is dry, apply a conditioner made specifically for jackets to restore its natural oils. Use a small amount on a soft cloth and gently rub it in circular motions. For a detailed guide read our How to Condition Leather Jackets blog post.
Let the Conditioner Absorb
let the conditioner absorb into the jacket for about 20 to 25 minutes. If there's any excess of conditioner left on the surface carefully wipe it off with a soft cloth.
Regular Maintenance
Regular conditioning is key to maintaining the quality of the jacket. Condition it every 3-4 months, or more frequently if you live in a dry or rough climate.
How to Maintain the Shape and Structure of Leather Jacket
A well-kept leather jackets should always hold its shape, and proper storage is key to preventing damage. Follow these steps to keep your jacket looking great for years.
Use Padded Hanger
When you are not wearing the jacket, store it on a padded hanger to prevent the shoulders from becoming misshapen. Do not use any thin wire hangers, as they can destroy the shape of the jacket.
Avoid Overcrowding
Never overcrowd the leather jacket as it needs space to breathe, and being cramped in this kind of closet may cause it to lose its form and become stiff.
Protect from Harsk Weather
Extreme temperature changes may damage leather jackets. If you are caught in the rain then dry the jacket naturally. If the jacket gets wet, never use artificial heat like a blow dryer or heater.
Can You Wash Leather Jackets?
Washing a leather jacket in a machine is not a good idea because the detergent and water shrink it. However, some jackets may be labeled as machine washable, but most should be cleaned with proper leather care methods. Although for tough stains or deep cleaning, professional leather cleaning services are the safest option.
Leather Cleaning Products You Should Use

- Use a leather cleaner to remove dirt without stripping natural oils.
- Apply a conditioner to keep the leather soft.
- Use a water and stain repellent to protect the it’s surface.
Leather Jacket Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Here are some general tips to help keep your leather jacket looking great for years

- Sprays and oils can stain leather, apply them to your skin first not the jacket directly.
- Handle your jacket gently to prevent scratches and scuffs.
- Rotate between jackets if you own multiple to avoid excessive wear.
Common Leather Jacket Mistakes to Avoid
Leather jackets are a valuable investment and proper care is key to making them last. Still owners can make mistakes in maintenance. So here are the most common errors to avoid to keep your jacket in top shape.

Using Harsh Cleaners
Regular soaps can strip natural oils and damage the leather.
Not Testing Conditioners
Applying conditioner without testing can cause discoloration or an uneven finish.
Test the conditioner on a small area first to ensure it will damage or change the color of the jacket.
Over-Conditioning
Using too much conditioner can clog the pores, making the leather attracting dirt.
Apply conditioner in thin layers and always wipe off any excess. Only condition when the leather appears dry.