A good vintage leather jacket only gets better with age, as long as it's cared for. Here's how to keep yours soft and wearable for decades.
1. Hang it right
Use a wide, padded hanger that supports the shoulders. Wire hangers stretch and dent the leather.
2. Let it breathe
Skip plastic garment bags, which trap moisture. A breathable cloth garment bag protects it from dust.
3. Spot clean gently
Wipe dirt with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Never soak a leather jacket or put it in the washing machine.
4. Condition once or twice a year
A quality leather conditioner keeps the hide supple and helps prevent cracking. A little goes a long way.
5. Got wet? Air dry it
Let it dry at room temperature on a hanger. Keep it away from heaters, radiators and hair dryers, which can shrink and stiffen leather.
6. Test products first
Try any cleaner or conditioner on a hidden spot first, like inside a cuff or under the collar.
7. Musty smell?
Air it out in the shade, and keep an open box of baking soda nearby in the closet to absorb odors. Don't sprinkle it on the leather.
8. Call a pro for big jobs
Deep stains, mold or suede problems are best handled by a leather cleaning specialist.
Most of all, wear it
Leather loves being worn. It softens, molds to you and builds the kind of character you can't buy new.
Looking for your next treasure? Browse the vintage finds at Alleycat's Funky Finds.