A high-quality leather jacket is timeless. However, to preserve your coat in excellent shape, you must take care of the material. Unlike other forms of apparel, you won’t be able to wash your leather jacket since it will shrink, crack, and warp. However, if your jacket is dusty or dull, there are several quick and easy ways to clean and treat it to keep it looking new for a long time.
The Time-Tested Water and Mild Detergent Method
Take an open-faced jar and fill it with warm water. Then, add a tiny amount of mild liquid dish detergent to the bottle and mix to dissolve. For a few ounces of water, two teaspoons of detergent will be enough. Just make sure the solution is moderate and mild so that it does not harm your jacket.
Wring off any excess water with a soft sponge or cloth dipped in the soapy solution. It should just be slightly wet. You don’t want the leather to soak up all of the additional liquid and get saturated. It is also critical to use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the leather.
Begin by cleaning the leather jacket with a wet cloth. Instead of scrubbing, use lengthy, soft movements. Prioritize washing the filthy areas first and scrubbing discolored patches and water stains to remove them. You may need to dampen the cloth a few times to clean it thoroughly. Next, dampen another clean, soft cloth by dipping it in clean water and wringing it out. Wipe away the soap with this. After that, blot the jacket dry with a dry cloth. Do not hang the jacket to dry in the sun. Direct heat can harm leather, especially if there is any moisture present. Also, do not put it in the washing machine. Instead, hang it in your closet to dry naturally.
DIY Ways to Remove Stains from Your Leather Jacket
Toothpaste
Apply non-gel toothpaste to the discoloration with your finger. Then, gently rub the stain with a soft cloth until it lifts. If you scrub, you risk scratching or discoloring the leather. Instead, use a clean, damp cloth to remove the toothpaste.
Nail Polish Remover
Blot the area with a cotton swab soaked in nail polish remover to remove ink stains and scuffs. Don’t massage the site, or the ink will spread. Instead, carefully wipe the discoloration until it disappears. Dry with a towel after wiping with a clean, moist cloth.
Baking Soda
To erase oil or grease stains, sprinkle the area with baking soda or cornstarch. Rub gently with a damp cloth. Allow to stand for many hours or overnight. The soda or starch will absorb the oil. Wipe the powder away gently with a soft cloth and pat dry.
Rubbing Alcohol
Do you want to know how to remove mold from leather? Mix one part alcohol with an equal part of water. After that, wet a cloth with the alcohol solution and apply it to the afflicted region. Wipe clean with a wet towel again. This will also get rid of mildew.
Conclusion
Apply a leather conditioner to your jacket if it is already clean to prevent it from drying out and breaking. This will also increase resistance to subsequent stains. You may either purchase a commercial leather conditioner or create your own using one part vinegar and two parts linseed oil. Apply on leather, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then buff with a soft cloth till it shines. Knowing how to clean leather will help your jacket last longer and look better.
Not up for it? No worries. Goodfellow Cleaners offers 25 years of experience in handling all your same-day alterations in Ottawa as well as professional dry clean services, from everyday clothing to precious, memorable ones.