A leather jacket is an investment, meaning you do not get a replacement after some time unless you purchase another. Leather degrades with time; it can develop scratches or fade in color. With proper care and maintenance, you can return your leather jacket to its original condition and extend its life.
1. Regular Cleaning
There is one thing that you will do to ensure that you maintain your womens or mens leather jacket: cleaning. You see, dust and dirt could be building up on the leather and causing it to look dull and dry. Cleaning should lightly be done on your leather jacket using soft, dry cloth that would take away dirt or grime, but harsh chemicals or solvents cause damage on the leather.
2. Conditioning
Leather must be conditioned regularly to stay soft, supple, and hydrated. For conditioning, use a good quality leather conditioner suitable for the type of leather your jacket is made from. Apply the conditioner to a clean, soft cloth and gently massage it into the leather. Then, allow it to sit for a few minutes before buffing it out with a clean cloth.
3. Repairing Scratches and Scuffs
Scratches and scuffs are very common on leather jackets. Though one cannot eliminate them totally, the visibility of scratches and scuffs can be minimized. The best available option would be to apply a leather repair kit. For filling in the scratch and scuff marks, apply them carefully following the instructions with the kit.
4. Dealing with Fading
Leather fades over time when exposed to sunlight and the elements. You can't reverse the fading process, but you can try to prevent further damage by keeping your leather jacket in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. You may also restore the color of your jacket using a leather dye.
5. Repairing Zippers and Buttons
Usually, if your leather jacket's zipper or buttons are damaged, then it should be repaired right away. The professional tailor can replace the broken zippers or buttons to make sure the leather jacket is in good shape.
6. Preventing Water Damage
Leather has particular vulnerability to water damage. If your leather jacket gets wet, leave it to air dry instead of using any heat source for drying. This can cause your leather jacket to shrink or even crack. It is best if your leather jacket becomes soaked so that it can be professionally cleaned and restored.
7. Storing Your Leather Jacket
If you do not plan on wearing your jacket for a long time, consider storing it in a breath garment bag. Hang your leather jacket on a padded hanger when you store it. Do not store the leather jacket in a plastic bag because these tend to trap moisture and can damage the leather.
