Aero's Chromexcel leather jackets already have a lot of waxes and oils in them, so a new Aero jacket actually doesn't require much care.
Even so, our customers frequently ask us what they can do to keep their leather jackets in tip-top condition, so here's our guide to caring for a leather jacket.
SKIP TO SECTION:
- Cleaning
- Conditioning
- Storage
1. Cleaning
Leather is tough, but it can be quite delicate when it comes to cleaning. For this reason, your jacket should only be cleaned around once or twice a year (depending on how often you wear it). You can use a soft, dry cloth to remove any surface dust and debris in between washes.
Leather and water don't mix too well – too much moisture can dry out and stiffen the hide. So instead of soaking the jacket, use a soft cloth or sponge with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap. Gently work the soap into the dirty area or across the whole jacket with slow, circular movements. Afterwards, gently dry the jacket by dabbing it with a dry cloth.
2. Conditioning
Leather naturally loses oils over time, which can lead to cracking and stiffness. Conditioning your leather jacket helps to replenish these oils and keep the material flexible.
However, the amount of conditioning required will depend on the nature of the leather itself and the climate in which you wear the jacket. Many of the leathers we use here at Aero – including Horween's Chromexcel and Badalassi Steerhide – already have many fats / oils present in the leather, which means the leather won't need to be conditioned for a number of years after purchase (climate dependant).
Generally speaking, after a few years of wearing your leather jacket often, you should aim to condition it once or twice a year. If you live in a dryer climate, you may need to condition your jacket more frequently to keep the leather from drying out.
You will want to use a high-quality natural leather conditioner, avoiding anything with silicone or petroleum. Use a small amount of the conditioner and gently rub it into the leather in circular motions, then let it absorb for 10 to 15 minutes. Once the conditioner has absorbed, you can buff it lightly with a dry cloth to create a smooth finish.
TOP TIP: Always test the conditioner on a small, hidden area of the jacket first to ensure it doesn't cause discolouration.
3. Storage
The final part of leather jacket care is storing your jacket correctly. Proper storage is key if you want your jacket to maintain its shape and texture.
Choose a hanger (like Aero's own coat hanger) that's robust enough to hold the heavy leather without altering the shape of the jacket over time. It's best to opt for a strong and wide wooden hanger, as these tend to be best for supporting the shoulders and keeping them in place.
Do not wrap your jacket in plastic or hang it in a wardrobe that is already full to the brim. Your jacket should fit in comfortably, with ample space either side of it.
Leather jackets should also be stored away from direct sunlight, heat and humidity to avoid fading and cracking. If you're not going to be wearing the jacket for a while, give it a quick wipe and condition before storing.
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A well-looked-after leather jacket can last a lifetime, building more character with every wear. With a little regular maintenance – cleaning, conditioning and proper storage – you can preserve your leather jacket and keep it looking sharp and stylish for many years to come!
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If you have any further questions on how to care for an Aero leather jacket, please get in touch with us today and a member of our team will be happy to provide further leather jacket care advice.
