How to Clean a Leather Jacket

Leather jackets may be one of the most classic and stylish outerwear pieces you buy. It’s an outfit completer, a perfect layering piece when the weather gets cold, and makes a statement no matter what it goes over. Our own Ree Drummond is a fan, for sure. “I really love that kind of caramel-colored leather that’s lightly distressed and not too perfect,” she explains. “I love that nice worn leather.”

But there’s a difference between perfectly worn-in and dirty… or worse, stained. Since leather is an investment piece, you want to keep it looking in top condition as long as you can. Of course, you can lug it to the dry cleaner and spend a pretty penny. Or, you can do it yourself at home. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean a leather jacket, we’re here to help! It takes just a few household products and a few minutes. So save that trip to the cleaners, and try these DIY methods instead.

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Can you machine wash a leather jacket?

It’s not advisable to put your leather jacket in the washing machine. Not only can laundry detergents be harsh, but the tumble and spin actions of washing machine will cause too much friction. You’ll do more harm than good and risk scratches and tears in the leather.

What is the best way to clean leather?

Cleaning your leather jacket by hand isn’t complicated. No surprise, there are actually leather cleaners you can buy online that work really well. But, you can also make one yourself with basic household products that you probably already have. Hooray! First, mix up some warm, soapy water using mild dish soap, just like you would do if you were washing delicate dishes. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and wring it out really well. This is important to note, because too much liquid can stain leather. Wipe down the entire outside of the jacket with the damp cloth, then immediately take another dry cloth to wipe the solution away. Use a large bath towel to dry the leather again and ta-da! Your jacket is clean. Now just hang it on a sturdy hanger, and let it dry completely.

Tip: You can also use a 50-50 solution of white vinegar and water instead of warm, soapy water, though dish soap certainly smells better! Avoid bleach, ammonia, or other harsher chemical-based cleaners though.

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How do you remove stains from leather?


The earlier you catch the stain, the better. If you spill something, address it immediately because again, leather will absorb liquid quickly and cause it to stain. And there’s no need to clean the whole jacket. You can easily spot clean the problem.

If the stain is oil-based, first blot it with a clean cloth to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Then place an absorbent powder like cornstarch or baking soda on the area and allow it to sit for a few hours. Wipe it off with a clean, dry cloth.

For other stains, apply toothpaste (not the gel kind!) with your finger or a cotton swab. Rub very gently in a circular motion, remove with a damp cloth, and dry with another dry cloth. For mold, make a 50-50 solution of rubbing alcohol and water, dampen a soft cloth with the solution, and blot carefully. Remove with clean, dry cloth.

How do you condition a leather jacket?

After you clean your jacket, it is smart to condition it as well. This will bring the moisture back into the leather, avoid cracks and tears, and keep it protected from future stains. You can buy a leather conditioner online or make your own solution. Create a mixture of two parts linseed oil and one part vinegar. Apply it to the leather with a cloth, allow it to sit for 15 minutes, and then buff it with another soft cloth until it’s shiny.

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Commerce Editor

AnnMarie Mattila is the Commerce Editor for The Pioneer Woman, covering products ranging from home, fashion, beauty, and more. 

This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.