Taking proper care of a leather jacket requires some specialized knowledge. Due to their material, these pieces are particularly sensitive to moisture and heat, and their maintenance should reflect that. The professionals at 6 Avenue Tailor in New York City understand that knowing how to care for these fashion staples can be a bit confusing.

To help you increase the life span of your leather jacket, the Midtown tailors have shared some helpful tips below: 

• Store It in a Cool & Dry Place: To keep your jacket neat and wrinkle-free, don’t fold it. Instead, hang it up in a cool, dry closet, away from direct sunlight. You can also protect it with a garment bag—just choose a breathable material, such as nylon, to prevent condensation and mildew growth.

• Refer to the Label: Some leather jackets include labels that recommend the ideal washing temperatures and methods. However, most leather products should never be fully immersed in water, so if your jacket no longer has a label (or the label has faded), you can at least know you should be conservative about cleaning.

• Use Water-Resistant Products: Invest in “leather protectors,” which are meant to improve water resistance in leather. Certain products may also help to preserve the shine and texture of your leather jacket. It’s important to note, though, that leather protectors will not make your jacket completely waterproof.

• Stick to Spot Cleaning: As previously mentioned, leather jackets shouldn’t be washed that often. Instead, your local Midtown tailor recommends spot cleaning them when necessary with a damp cloth. Do not use saddle soap on leather jackets that haven’t been treated with leather protectors.

• Apply Leather Conditioner: To prevent excessive dryness, rub leather conditioner into your jacket when it starts to feel stiff. Never use petroleum or mineral oil-based products on leather, as these will damage it.

If you need leather jacket alterations or repairs, the professionals at 6 Avenue Tailor are here to offer assistance. They’ve served the New York City area for over three decades and are proud to offer you their 100% satisfaction guarantee. They also offer rush and same-day service. To schedule an appointment, call the Midtown tailors at (212) 593-1925, and visit them online for more information on their services.