A quality leather or suede jacket can last for many years, and it often looks even better with age. The secret is simple, regular care. You do not need expensive tools or a lot of time; a few good habits will keep your jacket supple, clean and looking its best. This guide covers everyday care, cleaning, conditioning, storage and what to do when things go wrong.
Know Your Material First
Before cleaning anything, check the care label and identify what your jacket is made from. Smooth leather and suede need different treatment.
Smooth Leather
Smooth leathers such as lambskin, cowhide and goatskin have a finished outer surface. They resist light moisture better than suede and can be wiped and conditioned. You can explore different finishes in our leather jackets collection.
Suede and Nubuck
Suede has a soft, brushed nap and is more porous. It absorbs water and oils easily, so it should be brushed rather than wiped and never treated with standard leather conditioner. Nubuck is similar but has a finer, velvety surface and is cared for in much the same way.
Everyday Habits That Make a Difference
- Hang it properly: Use a wide, padded or wooden hanger to support the shoulders. Thin wire hangers can leave dents and stretch the leather.
- Let it breathe: After wearing, hang your jacket in an airy spot before putting it back in the wardrobe, especially if it is slightly damp.
- Empty the pockets: Heavy items can stretch pockets and distort the shape over time.
- Avoid direct heat: Keep jackets away from radiators, heaters and strong direct sunlight, which can dry out and fade leather.
- Be careful with perfume and sprays: Apply fragrance and hair products before putting your jacket on.
How to Clean a Leather Jacket
Routine Dusting
Wipe the jacket with a soft, dry microfiber cloth every few wears to remove dust and surface dirt. A soft horsehair brush helps clean seams and around hardware.
Light Cleaning
For light marks, slightly dampen a soft cloth with clean water and gently wipe the area. Avoid soaking the leather. If needed, use a cleaner made specifically for leather, test it first on a hidden spot such as the inside of a hem, and follow the product instructions.
What to Avoid
Never put a leather jacket in the washing machine or tumble dryer, and avoid household cleaners, alcohol wipes, baby wipes and harsh soaps. These can strip natural oils, cause discoloration and leave the leather stiff.
Conditioning Smooth Leather
Leather is a natural material that slowly loses moisture. Conditioning keeps it soft and helps prevent cracking.
- Make sure the jacket is clean and completely dry.
- Test the conditioner on a small hidden area and wait to check that it does not darken the color more than you like.
- Apply a small amount with a soft cloth in gentle circular motions, working section by section.
- Let it absorb, then buff off any excess with a clean cloth.
How often you condition depends on how often you wear the jacket and your climate. In dry climates or after heavy wear, condition more often; in humid places, less. When the leather starts to feel dry or looks dull, it is usually time.
How to Care for a Suede Jacket
Brush Regularly
Use a dedicated suede brush to lift the nap and remove dust. Brush gently in one direction, then lightly in the opposite direction to refresh the texture.
Protect Before You Wear
A suede protector spray can help repel water and stains. Apply it in a well-ventilated area, from the distance recommended on the product, and let it dry fully before wearing. Test on a hidden spot first.
Dealing With Marks
For dry dirt, let it dry completely and brush it away. A suede eraser can lift scuffs and shiny spots. For oil or grease, blot gently right away with a clean, dry cloth; do not rub. Sprinkling a little cornstarch or talc on fresh oil and leaving it for several hours before brushing it off can help draw the oil out.
What to Do If Your Jacket Gets Wet
Rain happens. If your leather or suede jacket gets wet:
- Gently blot off excess water with a soft towel. Do not rub.
- Hang it on a padded hanger at room temperature, away from heaters and direct sun.
- Let it dry naturally and completely, which can take a day or more.
- Once dry, condition smooth leather to restore softness, or brush suede to lift the nap.
Storing Your Jacket Between Seasons
When the weather warms up, clean your jacket and condition smooth leather before storing it. Hang it in a breathable cotton garment bag rather than plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. Leave some space around it in your wardrobe so it is not crushed, and keep it in a cool, dry and dark place.
The same storage tips work well for other outerwear too, from varsity jackets with leather sleeves to bomber jackets and coats and blazers.
Handling Wrinkles, Scuffs and Odors
Wrinkles: Most creases relax naturally if the jacket hangs for a few days. Never iron leather directly.
Scuffs: Light scuffs on smooth leather often blend away with a little conditioner and buffing.
Odors: Air the jacket out in a well-ventilated, shaded place. Avoid spraying fragrance directly onto the leather.
For deep stains, tears or major color loss, it is best to consult a professional leather cleaner.
Care Is Part of the Story
With regular brushing, gentle cleaning and the right storage, your leather or suede jacket will age gracefully and become more personal with every wear. Looking for a new piece to look after? Explore our leather jackets, find your fit with the size guide, and enjoy free worldwide shipping with 30-day easy returns.