The Cleanery Unveils Expert Guide: 10 Ways to Take Better Care of Your Leather Jacket
ALBUQUERQUE, NM — The Cleanery, a leader in specialty garment care, has released a comprehensive guide detailing 10 proven methods to preserve, protect, and extend the life of leather jackets. Recognizing leather as a natural material that requires specialized care, the company highlights practical tips that can be implemented immediately by jacket owners.
Leather may feel buttery-smooth and smell richly earthy, but beneath its luxurious surface is a delicate material that demands thoughtful maintenance. Without proper conditioning, leather can stiffen. When exposed to spills, it readily absorbs them. And with careless storage, it risks losing its crisp shape, soft texture, and signature effortless drape. The Cleanery emphasizes that by acting now, leather jacket owners can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
1. Wipe Down Surface Dirt Weekly
The Cleanery advises that while leather jackets may not appear dirty, dirt, dust, and airborne oils can build up over time, dulling the natural finish. Even indoor use contributes to this surface layer. The company recommends regular cleaning using a soft microfiber cloth — dry or lightly damp — to gently wipe along seams, cuffs, and collars. Harsh cleaning products should be avoided unless specifically designed for leather. Regular maintenance helps prevent debris from embedding into the grain, keeping the jacket fresh and vibrant.
2. Keep Leather Away from Direct Sunlight
According to The Cleanery, prolonged exposure to sunlight is one of the fastest ways leather loses its natural oils, leading to fading, drying, and cracking. Instead, jackets should be stored in cool, shaded spaces, rotated if displayed, and never left inside a hot car. Avoiding direct sunlight helps preserve both the color and structure of the leather over time.
3. Condition the Leather Every Few Months
The Cleanery emphasizes that just like skin, leather requires moisture to stay soft and flexible. Conditioning replenishes essential oils that are naturally lost, particularly in dry climates or during winter. The recommended method includes applying a small amount of leather conditioner with a soft cloth in circular motions, allowing it to absorb, and gently buffing to restore sheen. The company advises conditioning every three to four months to maintain suppleness without oversaturating the material.
4. Use a Wide, Padded Hanger
Storage, The Cleanery notes, plays a crucial role in maintaining a leather jacket’s structure. Thin wire or plastic hangers can stretch shoulders and cause creasing. Instead, the company recommends wide wooden or padded hangers that mimic the shoulder’s natural shape, with jackets zipped or buttoned to preserve form. Proper hanging helps keep jackets balanced and in like-new condition.
5. Never Store Leather in Plastic
While plastic storage may seem protective, The Cleanery cautions that it suffocates leather, trapping moisture that can lead to mildew, odors, or mold. Leather requires breathability. The company suggests using cotton or muslin garment bags, ventilated closets, and tissue paper inside sleeves if additional structure is needed. Avoiding plastic ensures leather remains healthy and damage-free.
6. Let Jackets Air Dry Naturally
When leather gets wet, The Cleanery warns against using artificial heat sources such as radiators or hair dryers. These methods warp and shrink the material. Instead, moisture should be gently blotted with a clean towel, and the jacket should be air-dried at room temperature on a padded hanger. Once dry, conditioning restores lost hydration. Natural drying protects the integrity of the grain and finish.
7. Rotate Outerwear for Longevity
Daily use of the same jacket accelerates wear in areas like cuffs, elbows, and collars. The Cleanery recommends rotating outerwear to give leather time to rest, maintain its shape, and age evenly. Keeping a backup jacket in regular use extends the lifespan of leather pieces and reduces the need for frequent repairs.
8. Treat Stains Immediately
The Cleanery stresses the importance of fast action when spills occur. Stains should be blotted — not scrubbed — with a dry cloth. For oil-based stains, water should be avoided. Specialized leather stain removers or professional cleaners are best for tougher marks. Acting quickly minimizes the risk of permanent discoloration or damage.
9. Avoid Overstuffing Pockets
Although leather has some stretch, The Cleanery warns against overstuffing jacket pockets, which can permanently distort seams and shape. Heavy items like phones, wallets, and keys should be stored in bags or pants pockets instead. By keeping jacket pockets light, owners preserve the sleek silhouette of their garment.
10. Don’t Wait Too Long for a Deep Clean
Beyond regular spot cleaning and conditioning, The Cleanery recommends professional deep cleaning at least once a year. Body oils, sweat, dirt, and environmental particles naturally accumulate in leather’s pores over time. Professional cleaners use pH-balanced products that restore color, remove embedded debris, and refresh the overall look and feel of the garment. Scheduling annual cleaning prevents long-term damage and keeps leather pieces in peak condition.
Trusted Leather Care at The Cleanery
The Cleanery emphasizes that leather jackets require experienced, specialized care, not ordinary cleaning. Each piece is treated according to its unique texture, age, and finish. Using gentle yet effective processes, the company removes dirt, stains, and odors without compromising softness or color. State-of-the-art equipment and tailored techniques ensure every garment is handled with precision and respect.
Visit The Cleanery
The Cleanery welcomes customers to bring their leather jackets and experience professional care at its Albuquerque locations:
NE Heights – 5200 Eubank Blvd. NE #E4 | (505) 557-1421
West Side – 6100 Coors Blvd. NW #K4 | (505) 792-8432
NE Heights – 12231 Academy Rd. NE #101 | (505) 294-6200
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM | Saturday, 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
With unmatched expertise in leather and suede treatment, The Cleanery reaffirms its position as the trusted choice for those looking to preserve and perfect their most cherished garments.
