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Leather Care Guide

A well-cared-for leather jacket lasts for years and only gets better with time. You'll find your jacket's leather type on its care label and on the product page.

Basics for every leather

Storage

  • Hang your jacket on a wide wooden hanger that supports the shape of the shoulders. Thin wire hangers leave marks on the shoulders.
  • Don't use plastic garment bags. Leather needs to breathe; plastic traps moisture, which can cause mold or drying. Choose a cotton or other breathable fabric cover.
  • Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Direct sunlight and heat sources dry out leather and fade its color.
  • Leave space around the jacket in your wardrobe; compressed leather can take on permanent creases.
  • Don't leave it folded for long periods. Empty the pockets before storing.

Everyday wear

  • Apply perfume, deodorant and hairspray before putting on your jacket, and let them dry. Products containing alcohol can stain leather.
  • A shoulder bag strap rubbing constantly against the same spot can wear the leather.
  • Dark leather may transfer color onto light clothing, especially during the first few wears.
  • Light creases will fall out on their own if the jacket is left on a hanger for a few days. Don't iron it.

Never

  • Machine wash or soak in water
  • Dry with a radiator, heater or hair dryer
  • Use alcohol, acetone, bleach, detergent or wet wipes
  • Iron
  • Take it to a standard dry cleaner

Lambskin nappa

The softest and finest leather, with an elegant sheen and a fluid drape. It is also the most prone to scratches.

  • Everyday care: Remove dust with a dry, soft microfiber cloth.
  • Rain: Light rain won't harm it. If it gets wet, blot it (don't rub) with a soft towel and let it dry on a hanger at room temperature. Once completely dry, apply a thin layer of leather conditioner.
  • Stains: Wipe water-based stains with a slightly damp cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward. Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on grease stains right away, leave for a few hours, then brush off with a soft cloth. For ink and stubborn stains, see a professional cleaner.
  • Conditioning: Every 6–12 months, with a colorless leather conditioner suitable for nappa. Test it on a hidden spot first; apply a thin layer, let it absorb, then remove any excess with a dry cloth.

Cowhide

A thick, durable leather that gains character over time. It softens as you wear it and develops a patina all its own. The same advice applies to goatskin.

  • Everyday care: Wipe with a damp, well-wrung cloth and let it air dry.
  • Rain: Water-resistant. If it gets wet, remove excess water with a towel and let it dry naturally on a hanger. Once dry, a leather conditioner restores its suppleness.
  • Stains: Use the same method as for nappa. Surface scratches often fade when gently rubbed with a fingertip or treated with conditioner.
  • Conditioning: Every 6 months, or every 3–4 months if you wear it often. Ideally, condition once at the start of winter and once before putting the jacket away for the season.

Suede

A velvety, matte surface created by buffing the inner side of the hide. It is the leather most sensitive to water and stains.

  • Protection: Before first wear and at the start of every season, apply a colorless water-repellent spray made for suede. Spray from 20–30 cm away, outdoors, and let it dry.
  • Everyday care: Remove dust and loose fibers with a suede brush, always brushing in the same direction.
  • Rain: We recommend not wearing it in the rain. If it gets wet, blot away excess water with a towel and let it dry naturally on a hanger. Once dry, lift the nap with a suede brush.
  • Stains: Rub dry stains gently with a suede eraser. Sprinkle cornstarch on grease stains right away, leave overnight, then brush off. Never apply water or cream to suede.
  • Conditioning: Suede is never treated with cream; care for it with a brush and protective spray.

Care schedule

Leather type Everyday Conditioning / protection Professional cleaning
Lambskin nappa Dry microfiber cloth Conditioner every 6–12 months Only when needed, at most once a year
Cowhide / goatskin Damp, well-wrung cloth Conditioner every 3–6 months Only when needed, at most once a year
Suede Suede brush Water-repellent spray at the start of each season Only when needed, at most once a year

Professional cleaning

For large stains, stubborn marks such as ink, wine or grease, or an overall refresh, take your jacket to a cleaner that specializes in leather. Standard dry-cleaning chemicals can dry out leather and alter its color. Opt for professional cleaning only when truly needed, and at most once a year.

For any care questions, write to us at admin@derileather.com.