how to care for vintage leather jackets

how to care for vintage leather jackets

Leather jackets are back, baby - they've reclaimed their status as the ultimate fashion capital. If you don't believe us, check out the recent catwalk shows from Khaite and Saint Laurent. As always, the allure of leather lies in its "tough-chic" heritage—but we're here to remind you that it always looks better with age. Today’s trend isn't just about the fabric or the silhouette; it's also about the hunt for a vintage piece, making the thrifted leather jacket the season’s most essential, sustainable power move.

1990s vintage / andrew marc new york / leather bomber jacket / L (3907388077565788372)

How to restore and care for your leather

To ensure your vintage jacket lasts at least another thirty years, follow our guide to cleaning and maintenance.

1. Identify Your Leather

Most leather jackets are smooth, but f your jacket has a fuzzy texture like suede or nubuck, these are highly porous; go gently and consider professional cleaning

2. General Cleaning (Non-Oil Stains)

  • The Golden Rule: Never use bleach, ammonia, or excessive water. Use a soft, lint-free cotton cloth (an old T-shirt works perfectly).

  • Water Blotting: For light dust or surface dirt, blot with a slightly damp cloth. Immediately buff dry with a separate cloth.

  • Targeted Leather Cleaner: If water fails, apply a specialized leather cleaner to the cloth, never directly to the jacket. Wipe the area gently, remove residue with a clean damp cloth, and air-dry away from direct heat or sunlight.

3. Oil and Grease Stains

  • Absorb, Don't Rub: For fresh grease, press a microfiber cloth firmly against the spot to lift the oil.

  • The Powder Method: Cover stubborn oil stains with cornstarch or baking soda. Leave overnight to draw the grease out of the pores, then gently brush away with a soft-bristled brush.

4. The DIY "Last Resort" (use with caution)

For specific stains where professional cleaning isn't an option, test these on an inconspicuous spot first:

  • Ink: Blot sparingly with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

  • Scuffs: A small dab of non-gel toothpaste can buff out minor surface marks; wipe away immediately with a damp cloth.

5. Long-Term Preservation

  • Conditioning: Every six months, apply a leather conditioner. This prevents the hide from drying out and cracking, keeping it supple.

  • Storage: Always use a wide, padded hanger to maintain the shoulder shape. Never store leather in plastic; use a breathable cotton garment bag and keep it in a cool, dry environment to prevent mold.

  • Protection: Apply a silicone-free waterproofing spray to shield the leather from unexpected rain and salt damage.

Check out our ever growing collection of jackets and coats - we have a couple  from the 1960s, and 1970s, lots from the 1980s and 1990s, and even a couple of Y2k 2000s classics

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