by Shikha

Created on: June 15, 2008

There is nothing as stylish as a well fitted glossy leather jacket. A sale and a 75% discount landed my first leather jacket into my closet. Shiny black with zippers on the sleeves and a nice fit makes it my favorite piece of outer wear. But something as expensive and good looking also requires proper care. Leather fibers have a tendency to break down with time and under high temperature and low humid conditions. This change could be irreversible.

Here are a few tips to increase the lifespan of your favorite jacket:
1. Leather jacket care starts the day you bring it home. Apply a leather protector which conditions and weatherproofs your jacket. After choosing a leather protector, do a spot test first because there are chances of staining. Do not use leather products too often, especially the wax based ones as they lead to a buildup on the jacket.

2. If the jacket is wet, let it air dry. Do not place it near high heat areas, which means bow drying or placing the jacket near a fire place may not be a good idea. And take care not to get it too wet. Leather and water do not go very well together.

3. If you live in a dry area, the jacket may need frequent conditioning to prevent cracking and tearing.

4. Clean using a damp towel. Use a little mild detergent if required but do not use too much water that it may seep through the jacket.

5. Leather conditioners are used to restore suppleness. But a common mistake leather owners make is using too much conditioner. Frequent use of chemicals can remove the fine soft protection around leather and lead to cracking.

6. Do not store it in plastic bags or other non porous storage bins which could cut out air supply. Let your jackets breathe.

7. Do not fold your jacket. If you have already done it hang the jacket on a wide hanger so that the creases smooth away by themselves. Hanging ensures that the jacket does not lose its shape. Avoid wire hangers.

8. It is better not to iron but if ironing is absolutely required make sure to use the lowest heat. And place a cotton cloth over the jacket while ironing so that there is no direct contact with the iron box. And never use steam.

9. Do not use perfumes or pin brooches on your jacket.

10. Treat your jacket to an occasional professional cleaning.

It is said that a well maintained leather jacket can outlast denim! With proper care, your jacket will last a lifetime.

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