A leather jacket is more than just outerwear—it’s personal. It carries your story, your style, and over time, your memories. But to keep that story going strong, you need to take care of your leather jacket the right way. At LVH Leather, we understand how important proper leather maintenance is, and we’re here to help you do it the smart, simple way.

Most people love how a leather jacket looks and feels, but they don’t always know what goes into keeping it in that condition. The truth is, leather is a natural material. It reacts to its environment. It can dry out, absorb moisture, lose its shine, or even crack if neglected. But with just a little bit of attention every now and then, your jacket can look even better with age.

Let’s start with cleaning. Never toss your leather jacket in a washing machine. That’s rule number one. It needs a gentler touch. Use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe off surface dust and light dirt. If you notice smudges or buildup, go for a leather-safe cleaner—one that doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or alcohol. Apply it gently, using circular motions. It’s better to do a few light passes than scrubbing heavily.

Now let’s talk about moisture. Leather and water are not best friends. If you get caught in the rain, don’t panic. Take the jacket off, gently blot it with a clean towel to remove excess water, and hang it to air dry—away from heat sources. Never use a dryer or a heater, because that will dry out the leather and cause it to stiffen or even crack. Once it’s dry, apply a leather conditioner to restore its softness and flexibility. This is essential after any exposure to water.

Conditioning is not just for emergencies—it should be a part of your routine. Think of it like moisturizing your skin. Leather gets dry, especially in cold or dry weather. Every couple of months, apply a thin layer of a quality leather conditioner. It keeps the material supple and nourishes it. Not only will it prevent cracking, but it will also help maintain that rich, smooth look that makes leather so iconic.

Another important point is how you store your jacket. Leather needs to breathe. Don’t wrap it in plastic or shove it into a tight corner. Always hang your jacket on a broad, padded hanger so it holds its shape. Also, keep it out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry location. In bright sunlight fades leather, and humidity can cause mold or unpleasant smells.

If you’re storing it for long periods, like during summer, consider using a cloth garment bag. It protects the jacket from dust while still allowing air to flow through. Never use plastic covers—they trap moisture and can harm the leather.

Let’s not forget about the details. Check your zippers, snaps, and stitching every once in a while. If a zipper starts getting stuck, a little wax or zipper lubricant can help. Loose threads should be trimmed carefully, and any small tears should be addressed early before they become major problems. For serious issues like ripped linings or damaged hardware, take your jacket to a leather repair specialist. It’s worth the investment.

Also, avoid overloading the pockets or stretching the jacket out of shape. Leather can mold to your body over time, which is great—but excessive strain from heavy items can distort its natural lines.

A bonus tip: Avoid wearing your leather jacket every single day, especially in extreme conditions. Rotate it with other outerwear when you can. This gives the leather time to “rest” and maintain its structure and texture longer.

If your jacket has any kind of unique treatment—like dyed finishes, waxed textures, or exotic leather types—make sure you follow specific instructions for that type. Not all leather is treated the same, and each kind needs its own care.

Lastly, remember that a good leather jacket improves with age—patina is proof of that. It’s the soft shine and slight fading that happens after years of use. It’s what gives each leather jacket its unique personality. With time, wear, and the right care, your LVH Leather jacket becomes one-of-a-kind—something that no one else can duplicate.

At LVH Leather, we stand by craftsmanship, quality, and style. But more than that, we stand by the relationship you build with your leather. With proper care and maintenance, your jacket will last a lifetime—and tell your story while doing it.