4 SUREFIRE TIPS TO CLEAN LEATHER JACKETS AT HOME

Leather jacket is a valuable possession that may appear as one of the most durable and hardcore materials. However, few of us really know that leather demands care and treatment in order to survive and outlive the wearer! Technically, anything we use too often demands absolute maintenance, and so, leather outerwear is no exception. Constant exposure to rain, dirt, pollutants, and sunlight can take a toll on leather and evidently, result in damage.

As per the experts, leather jackets require a suitable clean-up process for at least once every year, if not twice.  In general, these experts suggest you to resort to a practicing professional that masters the technicalities associated with this method. However, with the right cleaning approach and the right selection of tools, this job can be easily performed by yourself! That’s right. Since jacket cleaning is one big expense, you can simply cut the cost by performing it yourself.

But first admit that the process is one delicate task. Hence, you can’t just toss it in your machine like any other garment in need of cleaning. When a leather jacket is subjected to harsh cleaning methods, it can lead to shrinking, cracks, or a damage that may not be reversible in nature.

Thankfully, there are some simple and effective cleaning tips that can help us yield results we experience through professional cleaning. These tips can preserve the moisture and life of your leather jacket while eliminating dirt, stains, and oil. What are these and how useful can these be, let’s find out now:

1. A DISH DETERGENT IS YOUR SAVIOR:

This is one of the most smartest and cost-effective ways to turn your jacket, into a brand new one. Simply pull a container and pour 2 cups of luke warm water. Now add 2 teaspoons of a gentle detergent to prepare the solution you need for the cleaning purpose. Take a soft cloth and damp it into the mix removing the excess of water through proper squeezing. Begin wiping the leather with light, clockwise motion and not harsh.

Start with the areas that have spots and dirt and gradually move to the areas that are apparently clean. Once done, wipe the jacket using the solution-free, plain water with a similar soft cloth you have already used. Just when you feel that the water has removed all the traces of detergent that has been applied in the first round, pick a soft, dry towel. Now pat dry the jacket, place it in a hanger and hang it safely in the wardrobe. It is important to note that you must always allow the leather to dry out at room temperature. If you choose sunlight or some warmer spot instead, it will possibly lose its moisture and end up with cracks

2. HOW ABOUT LEATHER CLEANER?

One of the ideal ways to clean a leather jacket is through leather cleaner. Leather cleaners are specifically designed keeping the delicacy and sensitivity of this material in mind. A quality one comprises of ingredients that can wipe out the spots and dirt while adding to the moisture, suppleness and health of the leather. So head to a good superstore or some store that deals in leather-related goods.

Now squirt the cleaner directly on the area in need of cleaning. No matter what form you have including the gel or spray, always choose to start with a little. You can gradually increase the quantity as need be. Now with soft gentle hands using a light, soft fabric, rub the solution on the surface for the leather to absorb. Right when the formula begins to set in, it starts to gather dust and impurities while eradicating the liquid spots that the leather has formed.

Unlike the former, there isn’t a need to wipe off the cleaner. The formula is premeditated to absorb and dry. But yes, there is a need to get rid of the extra solution. For that, you can use a soft towel that will ultimately result in a fresh, rich shine to the jacket.  The process can be repeated after 4-6 months for the jacket to age gracefully and develop patina for extreme magnificence

3. ALCOHOL COMES IN HANDY TOO:

While alcohol may be detrimental for our livers, it is not intimidating for our leather materials! Yes, rubbing it can simply help us chuck out the mold that usually thrives onto the leather. Though, applying the raw alcohol directly on the material is highly discouraged. And hence, the right way is to dilute it with water in equal amounts.

Then again, grab a soft fabric and damp it in the diluted mixture. Now apply on the areas that are either dirty or stained in light, circular motion. As you begin the wiping process, the difference will become visible and visible. As you feel there isn’t a need for more stokes, take a plain damp fabric for that last, wiping shot!

4. VINEGAR TOO, OFFERS A SOLUTION:

If not a detergent, you can also do the trick from non-gel toothpaste with your finger. Besides, many claim that a nail polish remover and cornstarch too, have a great contribution in eradicating oily stains. However, our favorite is the mix of vinegar and water. Similar to the tip one, apply the solution all over the stain or jacket to remove the traces of dirt. Indeed, you will need a soft fabric for the purpose followed by a clean, damp one to remove the liquid. At last, dry it using a simple, soft towel.

CONCLUSIVE THOUGHTS:

On top of the tips and tricks proven to clean your jacket like a pro, there are an abundance of conditioners and Acrylic copolymer sprays aiming to protect the leather from dryness and damage caused by water exposure. Thus, you can always count on these products to make your jacket appear pristine. While this would add a bit to your expense, every penny spent for its protection is worth a shot.