How to properly clean a leather jacket – Tips for care, home remedies & costs

A high-quality leather jacket often accompanies you for years – provided it is properly cared for. But leather is a sensitive natural material: water, wrong cleaning agents, or too much sunlight can permanently damage its structure. In this article, you will learn step by step what to watch out for when cleaning your leather jacket, which home remedies really help, and when it is worth hiring professionals for the cleaning.

Preparation before cleaning

Before you clean your leather jacket, careful preparation is crucial. Leather is a natural material that can react very differently to cleaning agents and moisture depending on the type. To avoid damage, you should first find out which type of leather you have – and proceed cautiously if in doubt.

Determine leather type

Different types of leather require different cleaning methods. Here is an overview of the most common types:

• Smooth leather: Classic, supple leather with a slightly glossy surface. It is relatively easy to care for and can be treated with a damp cloth and special leather cleaners.
• Suede (Nubuck): Soft, roughened leather with a velvety surface. Very sensitive to water and stains – it must never be cleaned wet.
• Nappa leather: Especially soft and fine smooth leather, often used in high-quality jackets. It is sensitive to scratches and should only be cared for with gentle products.
• Faux leather: Synthetic material that resembles real leather. It is usually more durable and in many cases can tolerate gentle cleaning with water and mild soap.

If you are unsure what material it is, a look at the care label or a quick online search for your jacket model will help.

Check label & test on an inconspicuous spot

Before you start cleaning, you should definitely check the care label of your leather jacket. You will usually find it inside, either in the collar area or along a side seam.

There you will find important care instructions from the manufacturer – for example:

• whether dry cleaning is recommended,
• whether hand washing is allowed,
• or which cleaning agents should be avoided.

Some jackets may only be dry cleaned, others are more robust and can tolerate gentle damp cleaning. Even if you have worn your jacket several times, it is worth taking another look – especially with high-quality leather types.

No matter which cleaning method you choose: always test every product – whether home remedy or special cleaner – first on an inconspicuous spot. This way you can ensure the leather does not fade, stain, or lose its texture.

Suitable spots for a test include, for example:

• the inside of the jacket at the lower hem,
• under the collar or on the back of the lapel,
• a hidden spot on the side seam or under the arm.

After the test, wait at least 10–15 minutes to see how the leather reacts to the product. Only if there is no color change, unpleasant odor, or material deformation should you proceed with large-scale cleaning.

Cleaning a leather jacket yourself – home remedies & tips

Many stains can be removed at home with simple household remedies and some patience – without expensive special products or professional cleaning. It is important to choose the right method for the specific leather and type of dirt.

Gentle cleaning with a damp cloth

For superficial dirt, a soft, slightly damp cloth is often sufficient. Make sure the cloth is not dripping wet – leather should never be soaked. Gently wipe the jacket and then let it dry at room temperature. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, as the leather can become brittle.

Cleaning a leather jacket with home remedies

For more stubborn stains, you can resort to gentle home remedies. Here are some proven methods:

• Milk or baby shampoo: A soft cloth with some lukewarm milk or diluted baby shampoo can help with grease or water marks. Always work in circular motions and without pressure.
• Vinegar water against odors: A 1:1 mixture with water can help neutralize unpleasant odors like sweat. Important: Use sparingly and wipe dry immediately.
• Cornstarch or baking powder: These home remedies are suitable for greasy stains. Simply sprinkle on the affected area, let it sit for a few hours, and then gently brush off.

Do not use aggressive cleaning agents, alcohol, or solvents – they can permanently damage the leather structure.

Clean the inner lining of the leather jacket

The inner lining of a leather jacket can also develop unpleasant odors or sweat stains over time – especially if the jacket is worn frequently. Since the lining is usually made of delicate fabric, caution is also advised here.

In many cases, it is sufficient to clean the inner lining spotwise by hand. Use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution (e.g., baby shampoo in lukewarm water). Treat only the lining – be careful not to get the leather wet.

Here's the best way to proceed:

• Turn the jacket inside out (if possible) or fully unbutton/open it
• Gently wipe over the soiled areas of the lining with a slightly damp cloth
• Then dab with a clean, dry cloth
• Let the jacket dry in the air at room temperature – not on the heater

If the lining is heavily soiled or made of delicate materials like silk, professional cleaning is recommended. This way, you avoid the risk of the lining warping or stains forming on the leather.

Can a leather jacket go in the washing machine?

The short answer: In most cases no. A genuine leather jacket should basically not go in the washing machine. Water, spin cycles, and detergents attack the delicate structure of the leather, causing hardening, cracks, or color loss – and can permanently ruin the jacket.

However, there are exceptions: Some modern faux leather jackets or textiles coated with leather look are machine washable according to the label. In such cases, you should strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe the following:

• Always wash on the delicate cycle or "gentle wash" at a maximum of 30 °C
• Liquid detergent without bleach – no powder or fabric softener
• Place the jacket in a laundry bag or pillowcase to minimize friction
• Never spin or dry in the dryer

Even for washable models, the washing machine should always be the last option. Those who want to be safe – especially with genuine leather – should rather opt for hand cleaning or professional cleaning.

How much does it cost to have a leather jacket cleaned?

If your leather jacket is heavily soiled, contains delicate materials, or you want to be on the safe side, professional cleaning is a good choice. Costs vary depending on the provider, region, type of leather, and condition of the jacket.

Depending on the provider, additional surcharges may apply for delicate types of leather such as suede or Nappa leather. Comparing prices at specialized leather cleaners is worthwhile – as is checking customer reviews.

Advantages of professional cleaning of leather jackets

Professional leather cleaning offers many benefits – especially if your jacket is heavily soiled, made of delicate leather, or particularly high-quality. Professional cleaning companies have special cleaning agents, equipment, and above all the necessary know-how in handling different types of leather.

These advantages speak in favor of professional cleaning:

• Material Preservation: Specialist companies know exactly how to treat delicate types of leather like suede or Nappa without damaging them.
• Deep Cleaning: Heavy dirt, absorbed odors, or sweat residues are targeted and thoroughly removed.
• Care & Protection: Many cleanings offer impregnation and aftercare that nourishes the leather, keeps it supple, and protects against new stains.
• Color refresh: If needed, the color can be refreshed or evened out – ideal for faded jackets.
• Comfort: You don't have to worry about suitable products or careful application – professionals take care of that for you.

If your leather jacket is valuable to you or is an expensive brand piece, investing in professional cleaning is usually sensible – and often cheaper in the long run than attempting repairs after a failed DIY treatment.

Care after cleaning – How to keep your jacket beautiful for a long time

Waterproofing and caring for your leather jacket

After cleaning, proper care is crucial to keep your leather jacket supple and looking good for a long time. Regular waterproofing is especially important to protect the leather from moisture, dirt, and UV radiation.

Here's how to proceed:

• Use a special waterproofing spray for leather – ideally colorless and breathable.
• Spray evenly outdoors or by an open window from about 20 cm distance onto the clean and dry jacket.
• Then let the jacket dry completely – ideally overnight.

Additionally, you should regularly care for your leather to keep it supple. Suitable products include:

• Leather grease or leather balm: For smooth leather – apply sparingly and massage in with a soft cloth.
• Leather care foam: For more sensitive surfaces – acts both as a conditioner and dirt repellent.

Important: Always test each care product first on an inconspicuous spot and never use products that are not explicitly suitable for leather.

Conclusion

Cleaning and caring for your leather jacket is not rocket science – but it does require some knowledge and a delicate touch. Whether using home remedies, gentle hand cleaning, or professional leather cleaning: those who are well informed and proceed carefully can keep their jacket in excellent condition for many years. Regular waterproofing and proper storage also play a crucial role in keeping the leather supple and maintaining its elegant look. If you're looking for a new jacket or want to care for your next favorite piece, you'll find a wide selection of high-quality genuine leather fashion in our leather jacket online shop . Discover elegant women's leather jackets, classic men's leather jackets and stylish children's leather jackets – all with a commitment to quality, durability, and timeless design.