When a leather jacket is well cared for, it’s long-lasting and durable. With the right care, including storage and leather repairs, you can maintain the gorgeous natural texture of the leather and continue to enjoy your jacket for years to come. Follow these steps for leather storage and cleaning.

How to Protect & Store Your Leather Jacket

1. Clean & Condition the Jacket

Before storing your leather jacket, make sure it’s completely clean. Using a slightly dampened soft cloth, wipe off the outside of the jacket. Don’t use enough water to saturate the leather. If there are small stains, you can use a little detergent with your water to wipe them off. For large stains, schedule a professional leather cleaning. Once the garment is clean, apply a leather conditioner with a cotton swab to keep the material supple.

2. Complete Tailoring & Leather Repairs

Your jacket’s exterior may be durable leather, but the lining is much more delicate. A tailor who specializes in leather repairs is the best person to repair any lining tears or to replace it entirely if it’s worn or stained. They can also clean and shine the leather as well. 

3. Choose the Right Storage Materials

Leather needs to breathe to stay in good condition, so never store it in a container made from airtight material like plastic. Wrap it in a soft cloth bag and store it in a box or drawer made of a breathable material like wicker. If you’re hanging it up, use a hanger thick and wide enough to fill out the shoulders. If you’re putting it in a box or drawer, place it flat instead of folding it. This will help keep the leather from creasing permanently.

If you need leather repairs for an incorrectly stored jacket or another piece of clothing, visit Wo’s Custom Tailoring on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. For over 40 years, this custom tailor has offered quality garment alteration services. They specialize in genuine leather repairs, and they’ll completely replace a jacket’s lining to restore the garment’s functionality. To schedule a consultation, call (212) 988-9889 or visit their website to browse their offerings.