Leather jackets are some of the most versatile pieces you can own. They are made of premium leather and can be worn throughout the year. Whether it's spring, fall, summer or winter. It will keep you warm and offer a stylish and dashing look.
Because they are made of leather, leather jackets require more care than other jackets. But if you do not store it carefully, it will get damaged. However, with proper storage, you can keep your jacket looking fresh for years, maybe even decades. In this blog, I’ll show you how to store your jacket so it will stay in top shape.
Why Proper Storing is Important For Leather Jackets
A leather jacket is not just an outwear, it is an investment. Without the right care, it can dry out and lose its shape. Throwing it onto a hook or into a closet increases the damage. Real leather needs space, breathability and the right environment to stay sharp. Whether you have a new or vintage leather jacket, storing it is important.
Best Tips to Store Your Leather Jacket
Storing a leather jacket properly will keep it fresh, smooth and damage free. Below are tips to keep it looking like the day you bought it. Before we get to the storage tips, prepping your jacket is important. Here’s how to do it right:
Clean the Jacket
Clean it with a soft cloth. Do not use hard chemicals because it will damage the surface. For more check out our How to Clean Leather Jacket
Apply Leather Conditioner
Use the best leather conditioner to keep the material soft, supple and crack free. For more information read our 'How to Condition a Leather Jacket' guide.
Empty All Pockets
Remove all items before storing to prevent bulges or stretching. It helps the jacket keep its natural shape over time.
Zip or Button The Jacket
Close all zips and buttons before storing it. This will let the jacket keep its original shape.
Stuffing The Jacket Sleeves and Body
Once your jacket is clean and dry, gently stuff the sleeves and body with acid-free paper before storing it. When you roll up leather jacket sleeves and add support inside, it helps the jacket keep its shape and prevents creasing.
Now that your jacket is clean, conditioned and ready to store. Let's move towards storing tips to keep your jacket in top shape.
Use Wide Hangers
If you are going to store a leather jacket, use hangers which have rounded edges. If you hang the jacket on a wide hanger, it will keep its shape and won’t get damaged from the shoulder area. Keep in mind that never hang the jacket on wire hangers because they stretch or change the shape of the fabric.
Use Acid-Free Paper
You can keep the leather looking fresh and prevent its color from fading by packing it from the inside with non-acidic paper. For this use acid free tissue paper and natural muslin fabric. If the jacket has a soft interior or bright color, then cover it to keep it safe from dust and sunlight.
Keep Away from Sunlight
If leather is exposed to the sun for a long time it will dry out and crack. So, to keep your jacket to last longer, store it in a dark area. You can keep it in a wardrobe or closet that is away from direct sunlight.
Avoid Folding The Jacket
If you fold a leather jacket for a long time, it will get wrinkles. Try not to fold it, as it can affect its appearance and texture. If you have to fold it, then place it inside a soft cloth. You can check out our guide on How to Get Wrinkles Out of a Leather Jacket.
Wrap Your Jacket Gently
Wrap your leather jacket in a soft cloth or sheet that allows air to pass through like cotton or linen. This added layer helps protect it from dust, scratches, and moisture. A breathable fabric also prevents dirt from building inside, which can damage the leather over time.
Store The Jacket in a Cool and Dry Place
Leather is very sensitive and gets damaged easily in high temperatures. So choose a place that is dry and has a normal temperature. Remember, do not store your leather jacket that may become wet or cold or unsuitable, such as the basement.
Use Leather Conditioner
Before storing it, apply a leather conditioner specifically designed for leather jackets. The conditioner nourishes the leather with natural oils and protects it from the elements and saves it from drying out.
Bonus Tips to Store Leather Jackets Safely
Alongside the basics of the best way to store leather jackets, as stated above, there are several extra tips might improve leather jacket storage, such as:
- Use a Soft Hanger
- Avoid Plastic Covers
- Add Silica Gel Packs
- Let It Breathe Sometimes
- Keep It Away from Artificial Heat
FAQs
Can you roll up the sleeves of your leather jacket?
Yes, you can roll them up. But be careful or you might get wrinkles or even crack the leather.
Tell me the best temperature to store a leather jacket?
It’s best to store your leather jacket at room temperature. Not too hot or too cold and it’s fine.
How To Store a Leather Jacket?
Always clean the leather jacket first, then condition it and hang it on a wooden or padded hanger.
