How to Clean a Leather Jacket Correctly

How to Clean a Leather Jacket With Dish Soap

If your leather jacket has been properly treated and protected, most soil can be wiped away with a clean, damp cloth.

1. Make a Soapy Water Solution

   Make a solution of warm water and a drop or two of dish soap or mild laundry detergent like Woolite.

2. Wipe Down the Jacket

   Dip a soft microfiber cleaning cloth in the soapy solution, wring out the water, and wipe down the soiled parts of the jacket.
   

3. Clean Off the Soapy Solution

   Using a second, water-damp cloth, wipe away the cleaning solution. Repeat these steps to remove any soap residue.
   

4. Towel and Air Dry

   Wipe away the moisture using a clean, dry towel.
   

5. Condition the Leather

   Condition the garment completely using a leather conditioner. Be sure that you use a good quality leather conditioner.

How to Deep Clean a Leather Jacket

If the inner lining is washable (read the care label instructions) and soiled with body oil and sweat, you can hand-wash and submerge the jacket. If you're not sure it is washable or you don't feel comfortable cleaning it yourself, take your leather jacket to a professional leather cleaning expert or dry cleaner qualified to clean leather.

1. Prepare Garment for Cleaning

   Empty all the pockets of the jacket and turn it inside out.
   

2. Make a Cleaning Solution and Fill Container

   • Add a small amount of a gentle liquid detergent recommended for hand washing delicate items (like Woolite) and swish to disperse through the water.
   • Fill a large sink, tub, or plastic container with lukewarm water.
     

3. Submerge the Jacket and Soak

   • Completely submerge the leather jacket, swishing it through the water to be sure the entire lining is wet.
   • Gently squeeze the solution through the lining.
   • Allow it to soak for ten minutes or so.
   • Gently use a soft-bristled brush (like an old toothbrush) to brush away stains.
     

4. Rinse Away Soap

   • Lift the jacket out of the soapy water and dump out the water.
   • Squeeze out the excess moisture, but do not wring.
   • Fill the container with clean water, rinsing the jacket.
   • Change the water and repeat several times until the water is no longer soapy.

5. Air Dry the Jacket

   Turn the jacket right side out and hang from a sturdy wooden or padded hanger. Structured hangers will prevent marks from forming on the shoulders. It may take two to three days for the coat to dry completely.
   

   Warning

   Never hang a leather jacket to dry in direct sunlight or near a heat source. It can dry out and crack the leather.

6. Condition the Leather

   Condition the garment thoroughly until it is again soft and supple. Be sure that you use a good quality leather conditioner.
   

How to Clean a Leather Jacket With Leather Cleaner

Before cleaning with the leather cleaner, test it on an inconspicuous part of the leather to ensure it does not ruin the material or bleed dye.

1. Apply Leather Cleaner With a Soft Microfiber Cloth

   Apply a small amount of leather cleaner onto the jacket. Always begin with a small amount of cleaner and gradually increase the amount as needed.

2. Massage Cleaner Into the Jacket

   Massage the cleaner into the jacket using steady circular strokes, forming an enlarging spiral. Allow the jacket to absorb the cleaner and moisturize the material. Do not rinse it off.
   

3. Wipe Away the Excess

   Wipe away excess leather cleaner from the jacket with a fresh cloth. The jacket should have a clean, rich sheen to it.

4. Condition the Leather

   Condition the jacket using a good quality leather cleaner, following the package instructions.

How to Remove Stains From Leather Jackets

The most common household items you can use as stain removers on leather vary from dish soap and toothpaste to rubbing alcohol and nail polish removers. They each tackle certain stains better than others.

Soap and Water

Soap and water is a good all-purpose stain remover, perfect for most food stains. In the same way you wash a jacket with a clean cloth and soapy water, work at a stain with the soapy water mixture and a sponge or soft brush like a toothbrush. Wipe or gently brush in a circular motion, then dab with a dry cloth. Repeat the procedure, alternating between sponge and cloth, until the stain comes off.

Toothpaste

To remove dirt, apply toothpaste (paste-type, not gel) to the stain. It's mildly abrasive, so rub gently with a cloth in a circular motion to cover the entire stain. Do not scrub, or you may scratch or discolor the leather. Let the toothpaste sit on the stain for 10 seconds. Use a soft, damp cloth to rub off the toothpaste and stain gently.

Nail Polish Remover

Use nail polish remover to remove ink stains on leather. Blot the area with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover. Do not rub because it might spread the ink. Blot away the ink stain with a clean, moist cloth. Dry the area with a towel.

Rubbing Alcohol

Mold or mildew is best tackled with rubbing alcohol. Combine one part rubbing alcohol and one part water in a mixing bowl. Wipe the area with the solution using a soft cleaning cloth. With a second cleaning cloth, wipe away the alcohol, mold, and mildew from the surface.

Baking Soda, Cornstarch, or Baby Powder

Oil or grease stains require an absorbent powder to remove the stains. Choose between baking soda, baby powder, or cornstarch. Use a moist cloth and gently rub any of those powders into the oily stain. Allow it to sit for eight hours or overnight. Use a clean cloth to wipe away the powdery paste and dry the area with a soft towel.

Tips for Keeping Leather Jackets Clean Longer

• Use leather protector: Ensure the leather is treated correctly with a leather protector—either a liquid or spray-on formula. The protector helps repel water and prevents stains on the leather surface from water spotting and soil. Reapply it yearly or more often if your jacket is used frequently, especially during inclement weather.
• Keep pockets cleaned out: Never cram your pockets full of "stuff" or carry heavy items because it will stretch the leather.
• Avoid sprays and perfumes: Do not apply hairspray, perfume, or cologne while wearing your leather coat. The alcohol will dry out and stain the leather. Use the products and allow them to dry completely before wearing the jacket.
• Don't stick or attach items: Never attach badges, pins, tape, or stick-on labels to leather. It will mar the finish.
• Handling alterations: Have a professional do size alterations or attach emblems or embroidery to the leather surface. Holes caused by incorrect stitching are nearly impossible to remove.
• Treat after intense weather: If your leather jacket has gotten soaked by rain or snow, follow the same steps for air drying and treating it with a leather conditioner.
• Store properly: Store jackets in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Avoid any location that has excessive moisture—even a closet near a bathroom. Cover the coat with a cloth garment bag or cotton sheet if you are concerned about dust. Never store leather in a plastic bag that could trap moisture and promote mildew or cause yellowing of white leather.
• Avoid ironing: Use a cool to medium-temperature iron and a pressing cloth over the leather if you must iron. Too much heat will leave a permanent shiny iron print on the leather.