While this treatment will make the leather jacket resistant to water damage, it will not be fully waterproof, even if the treatment claims otherwise. Never immerse a leather jacket in water or place it in a washing machine.
Check the label to make sure it is suitable for your type of leather. (This is mostly important for suede or nubuck jackets. ) Ideally, use pure mink oil, neatsfoot oil, or other natural animal oils, but be aware that this may darken the leather. [2] X Research source Products that contain wax or silicone can dry out the leather, but may be a cheaper option that causes less of a color change. [3] X Research source Use sparingly. Never use products that contain mineral oil or petroleum, which can cause significant damage. [4] X Research source Also avoid “saddle soap,” at least on unfinished leather without a protective water-resistant coating. [5] X Trustworthy Source US National Park Service Agency responsible for the maintenance and promotion of national parks and monuments Go to source
Do not polish suede or other leather with a soft, fuzzy texture. It is not possible to make suede glossy without permanently removing this texture. [7] X Research source Don’t use shoe polish, even if it is intended for leather shoes.
Another great technique to remove salt stains is to mix white vinegar and warm water in equal proportions and apply to the leather with a soft muslin cloth dampened in the solution. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, you might need to touch up the affected area with a matching color dye or polish.
See the section on storage for more detailed information. You can also break in your jacket to make it softer. Since leather is malleable, it can take any shape or size after a sprinkle of water. All you have to do then is stretch it. Make sure be careful when doing that to avoid damaging the fabric.
This may work best if you first hang the suede in a steamy bathroom. Do not apply steam directly to the suede with an iron or kettle, as heat can cause damage. [13] X Research source
This type of eraser is sometimes sold as “artist’s eraser,” and is available at crafts stores. It is a putty-like substance which crumbles apart when used. Don’t confuse it with “kneaded erasers,” which look similar but does not crumble.
Suede or nubuck should be treated only by products specifically made for those types. Leather labeled as aniline, semi-aniline, or pigmented leather might be cleaned by a general purpose leather cleaner, but always test on a hidden area first. You can purchase ink stain remover for leather, but this is not usually 100% effective if the ink has dried. [15] X Research source
Never wash a leather garment in a washing machine or washtub.
Storing your jacket inside a closet is fine, unless the closet is unusually hot or damp.
