Leather jackets are timeless fashion staples that never go out of style. They can be a chic addition to any wardrobe and throughout the years they remain a durable, fashionable choice. But if you’re like most people, you want your leather jacket to look as new as possible for as long as possible.
Well, good news: there are some simple tips and tricks on how to keep leather jacket from cracking to help keep your leather jacket from cracking or fading over time so you can enjoy it season after season! Read on for our top suggestions on how to take care of your favorite investment piece for years to come.
Needed Materials
Given below is a list of items you will need to keep your leather jacket from cracking:
- Leather Conditioner
- Soft Cloth
- Lint Roller
- Water Repellent Spray
- Disposable Wipes
11 Step-by-step Guides on How to Keep Leather Jacket From Cracking
Step 1: Clean and Condition Your Leather
Regularly cleaning and conditioning is the key to keeping your leather jacket from cracking or fading over time. You should do this once every six months or so, but refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning instructions.
Start by wiping down the jacket with a soft cloth that is slightly dampened with warm water and mild detergent. Then use a leather conditioner (that has been specifically created for leather jackets) to nourish your jacket and help keep it from cracking or fading over time.
Step 2: Use a Lint Roller
Using a lint roller is an easy way to remove dirt, dust, and lint particles from the surface of your leather jacket. Simply roll the device over the outside of your jacket and it will pick up all of the stuck-on particles.
Regularly using a lint roller will help keep your jacket from becoming dirty and fading over time.
Step 3: Apply Water Repellent Spray
You should use a water-repellent spray every three to six months on your leather jacket, depending on how often it’s used. This will help keep the fabric from cracking and fading over time, as well as protect it from water damage.
Spray a light layer of product onto your leather jacket and let it dry completely before wearing it again.
Step 4: Wipe Down the Jacket with Disposable Wipes
You can use disposable wipes to remove dirt, debris, and dust from your leather jacket. Simply moisten the cloth with a small amount of warm water and gently wipe down the entire jacket.
Make sure to use gentle wipes that are specifically created for leather in order to avoid damaging the fabric.
Step 5: Avoid Excessive Heat
Leather jackets should not be exposed to excessive heat as this can cause cracking and fading over time. Store your leather jacket in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight, radiators, and other sources of heat.
Step 6: Fill In the Scratches
If you notice any scratches or tears on your leather jacket, you can fill them in with a product specifically created for repairing leather. Look for a product that won’t cause any discoloration or damage to the leather fabric.
Once you apply the product, let it dry completely before wearing your jacket again.
Step 7: Be Careful Around Heat Sources
It is important to be extra careful when you are around heat sources like open fires and hot coals. The heat can cause the leather to dry out and crack, leading to irreparable damage.
If you are going to be in a situation where there is an open flame, make sure to keep your leather jacket as far away from it as possible.
Step 8: Protect Your Jacket When You’re Not Wearing It
When you’re not wearing your leather jacket, it’s important to hang it up in a cool and dry place. This will help keep the leather from drying out and cracking over time.
You should also make sure that the hanger is wide enough so that the shoulders of your jacket don’t stretch or sag while it is hanging.
Step 9: Don’t Put Any Heavy Objects On Top of Your Jacket
If you are storing your leather jacket for an extended period of time, make sure to keep it away from any heavy objects. The weight of the objects can cause the leather fabric to stretch and eventually crack over time.
Step 10: Avoid Contact with Stains
It’s important to avoid contact with any substances that may cause stains on your leather jacket. Common substances to avoid include oils, grease, and certain cosmetics. If your jacket does come into contact with a stain, you can use a mild detergent or spot remover to treat it as soon as possible.
Step 11: Take It To A Professional
If you have any questions or need help with cleaning, conditioning, or repairs for your leather jacket, it is best to take it to a professional. They will be able to provide the necessary advice and guidance on how to keep your leather jacket looking its best.
Now that you know how to keep your leather jacket from cracking or fading over time, you can enjoy it for years to come. Just remember to follow these tips on how to keep leather jacket from cracking and take good care of your investment piece and it will remain as stylish as ever!
Additional Tips
- Always Store Your Leather Jacket in a Cool and Dry Space. This Will Help Prevent the Fabric From Drying Out and Cracking Over Time.
- Make Sure to Hang It Up on a Wide Hanger That Won’t Put Too Much Strain on the Shoulders of the Jacket.
- If You’re Going to Be Around an Open Flame, Always Keep Your Leather Jacket at a Safe Distance.
- Regularly Clean and Condition the Leather With Specially Designed Products in Order to Keep It Looking Its Best.
- If You Need Any Repairs or Cleaning Done on Your Jacket, Take It to a Professional for Expert Advice and Guidance.
- Avoid Contact With Any Substances That Could Cause Stains on the Fabric, Such as Oils and Cosmetics.
- Use a Lint Roller to Remove Dirt, Dust, and Lint Particles From the Leather Surface.
- Apply Water Repellent Spray Onto the Jacket Every Few Months in Order to Protect It From Water Damage.
- Always Wipe Down Your Jacket With Disposable Wipes Before Wearing It Again. This Will Help Remove Any Dirt or Debris That May Have Accumulated on the Fabric.
- If You Notice Any Scratches or Tears in Your Leather Jacket, Fill Them in With a Product Specifically Designed for Repairing Leather.
- Remember to Always Give Your Jacket Plenty of Tlc and It Will Remain as Stylish as Ever!
How Much Could It Cost?
Depending on the type of leather jacket you own, the cost of keeping it from cracking or fading over time can vary. For example, a high-end designer leather jacket may require more frequent cleaning and conditioning than an affordable faux-leather option.
In general, you can expect to pay $10-$20 for a quality leather conditioner and water-repellent spray, and $10-$15 for a lint roller and disposable wipes. Professional services such as repairs or restorations can cost anywhere from $50-$150 depending on the extent of the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How Often Should I Clean and Condition My Leather Jacket?
A: Leather jackets should be cleaned and conditioned every six months or so. If you use it frequently, you may need to do it more often. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: Is It OK to Use Regular Household Cleaners on a Leather Jacket?
A: No, regular household cleaners should not be used on leather jackets as they can cause discoloration and damage to the fabric over time. Instead, use a mild detergent or leather cleaner specifically created for leather jackets.
Q: Is It Necessary to Apply a Water-Repellent Spray on My Leather Jacket?
A: Yes, it is recommended to apply a water-repellent spray on your leather jacket every three to six months. This will help keep the fabric from cracking and fading over time, as well as protect it from water damage.
Q: What Should I Do If My Leather Jacket Gets Wet?
A: If your leather jacket gets wet, it is important to take the necessary steps to dry it as soon as possible. First, dab the surface of the leather lightly with a dry towel and then hang it up in a cool and dry place until it is completely dry. Make sure not to use any heaters, radiators, or hair dryers to speed up the drying process as this can cause discoloration and damage to the leather.
Conclusion
All in all, keeping a leather jacket from cracking is no easy feat. With the right care and maintenance though, it is possible to keep your jacket looking its best. To do this, use specific cleaning techniques, avoid contact with certain elements, and store it properly when not in use.
Additionally, if you find yourself with a cracked or damaged jacket, professional restoration can help in some cases to return the piece to its original state. No matter what techniques you use to maintain and care for your leather jacket, a little effort goes a long way toward preserving it for many years to come! Thanks for reading this article on how to keep leather jacket from cracking.
