A leather jacket is a great investment that you can wear for style and comfort regardless of the season. When it is hot, however, you might want to tuck it away until the colder days arrive. Its material requires more care to stay in good shape.
When it comes to storing leather jackets and other leather garments for the summer, proper storage is essential to ensure they remain in excellent condition when the cooler months arrive. If you’ve invested in a high-quality leather jacket or any leather garment, you know how important it is to keep it looking its best. The last thing you want is to discover cracks, stains, or an altered jacket’s shape come fall. But fear not! With a few simple tips and a little effort, you can store leather effectively, protecting it from unnecessary damage.
First and foremost, you want to avoid storing your jacket in a plastic bag or any material that traps moisture and heat, as leather needs to breathe. A breathable garment bag is the perfect option, as it allows air circulation while keeping dust and dirt at bay. For those who really want to ensure top-notch care, a cloth garment bag made of cotton is an excellent choice. Be sure to hang your jacket using padded hangers, as these prevent unnecessary creasing and help maintain your jacket’s original shape. Steer clear of plastic hangers, as they can cause surface dirt to build up and potentially warp the leather.
To keep your leather soft and supple during the hot summer months, treat it with a high-quality leather conditioner before storing it. This helps maintain the natural oils in the leather, preventing it from drying out. If your jacket has stubborn stains or marks, it’s wise to remove surface dirt and treat any blemishes with a professional leather cleaner. Make sure to address any excess moisture before putting your jacket away, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth. If your jacket gets wet, allow it to dry in a dry place with good air circulation—avoid direct sunlight and never dry leather with heat, as this can cause it to crack.
Finally, consider the environment in which you store your leather items. A storage area with a stable relative humidity is ideal, as extreme changes in moisture levels can damage your leather over time. A breathable cover is essential for dust protection, but avoid storing leather in garbage bags or tight, non-ventilated spaces. Leather needs room to breathe, and a well-ventilated, dry place with good air flow is essential to keeping your leather garments in top condition. By following these more tips, you can ensure that your timeless piece remains looking as good as the day you bought it, with minimal wear and tear.
How to Store Your Leather Jacket in Summertime
- Clean
You must clean the garment to prevent dust and dirt from embedding in the material. It is best to use saddle soap or some other gentle soap on a soft cloth. Wipe the surface, rinse off with water on a damp cloth and then a dry one made of microfiber. Let it sit to dry completely.
- Condition
Leather conditioners preserve the softness and suppleness of the material. It is important to find the right product for the specific type of leather jacket. Apply a tiny portion of it to a soft cloth and then wipe the entire surface to coat it completely. Massage the product into the leather using a circular motion for around two minutes. Lastly, wipe off excess liquid on the surface and wait for it to dry.
- Hang
A wooden hanger made specifically for leather jackets is ideal here although a regular one with thick padding will suffice in a pinch. It should be wide enough to accommodate the width of the jacket to avoid damaging the shape. Slip the jacket’s shoulder straps over the hanger and ensure that the grips support its weight properly.
- Stuff
Due to the susceptibility of the material to creases and wrinkles, you should stuff the leather jacket before storing it. After hanging, slide slightly crumpled acid-free tissue paper on the arm and chest areas. Doing this also helps to neutralize smells and draw out moisture. Button or zip up the leather jacket once the paper is in place.
- Store
Place the leather jacket inside a fabric garment bag to let it breathe and prevent direct sunlight, dust, humidity, and moisture from damaging it at the same time. Somewhere dark and dry is recommended although a climate-controlled spot is ideal.
Consequences of Improper Leather Jacket Storage in the Summer
The following might happen if you do not store your leather jacket properly during this time of the year:
- Mildew or mold growth
When stored somewhere moist or humid, your leather jacket might witness mildew and mold growth. They can soften the leather, which may then result in the growth of fungus and bacteria.
- Loss of shape
Leather jackets tend to get saggy and lose the crispness of the material, so make sure to hang them properly.
- Becoming dry and brittle
The summertime heat can dry up the moisture and essential oils in the leather. It is possible for the leather fibers to become so brittle that they break. On top of that, the jacket might fade and lose color as well.
- Bad odor
Due to the growth of bacteria and fungus, the leather jacket might emit a stench. It might even be so strong that you won’t wear the piece ever again. This can be avoided by stuffing your leather jacket and storing it in a place with good ventilation.
End Notes
When your leather jacket is not in use, you must store it carefully and properly to prevent any damage. This will ensure that it will be ready for use once you take it out again. Did this guide solve your leather jacket summertime storage woes? Use the comment section to tell us what you thought of this article.
by April Quibido
A wife, a mom, and a definite homebody who loves writing about all sorts of interesting things online. She loves fashion, interior design, and other creative pursuits—writing included. She also has entrepreneurial endeavors and, like everyone else, wants to thrive and grow in all aspects of life.
