Caring for leather jackets—from cleaning and conditioning to waterproofing and storage
Author: Stylist and brand team at Tellar
Date: 2025
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1. Know Your Leather Type
Different leathers need tailored care:
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Full‑grain/top‑grain leather: Durable and porous—needs regular cleaning and moisture.
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Bonded leather: Less durable—avoid moisture altogether.
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Suede/nubuck: Soft but highly sensitive to water and dirt.
Understanding your material is key to effective maintenance.
2. Regular Cleaning & Spot Care
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Monthly dust‑off: Use a soft, dry cloth or brush to remove surface dirt.
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Spot cleaning: Lightly dampen a cloth with water and mild leather cleaner, then gently dab—never saturate.
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Grease removal: Apply a small amount of baking soda or cornstarch, leave overnight, brush off the next day.
Clean lining carefully with a damp cloth and mild detergent—avoid excess moisture.
3. Conditioning to Nourish & Protect
Condition every 3–6 months:
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Choose a quality leather conditioner or balm—beeswax-based options are ideal.
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Apply sparingly with a soft cloth, work into the surface in circular motions.
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Allow it to absorb naturally; buff off excess to restore a soft, nourished feel.
4. Waterproofing for Added Protection
Leather is water-resistant—not fully waterproof. Follow these steps:
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Silicone spray: Apply a light, even coat—test on a hidden part first to ensure no discoloration.
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Beeswax or dubbin: Rub on warm wax, allow to set for ~30 minutes, then buff to remove residue.
Repeat this process seasonally or after heavy exposure to rain.
5. Post‑Rain Care
If your jacket gets wet:
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Blot excess moisture; do not rub.
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Hang on a wide, padded hanger in a cool, ventilated space—never use direct heat.
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Once dry, reapply conditioner to replenish lost oils.
6. Proper Storage
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Use wide, padded hangers to maintain shape.
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Store in a cool, dry place—not attics or damp basements.
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Lightly dust and condition biannually to preserve leather health.
7. When to Seek Professional Care
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Avoid home dry cleaning—it can ruin leather finish.
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Opt for a specialist leather cleaner annually or for serious stains.
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Professional treatment restores oils and removes deeply embedded dirt.
8. Care Checklist
Task |
Frequency |
---|---|
Dusting & surface clean |
Monthly |
Conditioning |
Every 3–6 months |
Waterproofing |
Each season or after rain |
Drying after wetness |
Immediately, naturally |
Dusting & conditioning |
Biannually storage |
Professional cleaning |
Annually or as needed |
Fit Matters Too—Meet Tellar.co.uk
While caring for your leather jacket ensures its longevity, Tellar.co.uk ensures it fits perfectly—whether you’re buying AllSaints, Reiss, COS, or Massimo Dutti.
Why Tellar helps:
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Accurate sizing: Using your measurements, Tellar recommends your best fit in leather jackets.
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Smart brand matching: Understand how brands like AllSaints and Reiss fit your body shape.
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Confidence in purchase: No more returns due to uncertain sizing.
➡️ Start with: Tellar.co.uk – leather jacket fit guide
Ongoing Style & Fit Insights
Follow Tellar for more leather-care knowledge, fitting science, and leather styling ideas:
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Instagram: @Tellarsizing
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Twitter/X: @Tellar100
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Facebook: Tellar Sizing
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Pinterest: TellarUK
Final Takeaway
Caring for your leather jacket means regular cleaning, proper conditioning, seasonal waterproofing, and mindful storage. When combined with perfect fit from Tellar.co.uk, your jacket becomes not just an item of clothing—but a long-lasting, sophisticated piece that reflects your style and attention to detail.
➡️ Explore expert leather jacket fit at Tellar: Tellar.co.uk leather jacket guide.