A sudden downpour, a spilled drink, or that unexpected splash — water and your leather jacket are never best friends. But don’t worry — getting your leather wet doesn’t mean it’s ruined. At LVH Leather, we’ve spent years perfecting the art of preserving premium leather, and today, we’re sharing that knowledge with you.
So if your jacket got wet — breathe, and follow these calm, proven steps.
Step 1: Pat, Don’t Rub
First things first: grab a soft, dry cloth or a clean towel. Gently pat the leather jacket dry. Don’t rub or scrub — friction damages the surface and can lead to texture changes or color distortion.
Keep it calm. Think of it as drying off something priceless — because it is.
Step 2: Lay It Flat — No Hangers Yet
Once you’ve removed surface moisture, lay the jacket flat on a clean towel in a cool, dry room. Avoid hanging it right away — wet leather is heavy and may stretch out if hung too soon.
Step 3: Let It Air Dry Naturally
Absolutely no heat. No blow dryers. No radiators. No direct sunlight. Heat dries out the natural oils in the leather, causing cracking and stiffness.
Let the jacket air dry slowly — it may take 24–48 hours, and that’s okay. Patience protects.
Step 4: Check the Lining
If water soaked through to the inner lining, gently dab it with a dry towel and leave the jacket open (unzipped or unbuttoned). This allows airflow to pass through and prevents mold or odor buildup.
At LVH Leather, we design every jacket with inner breathability in mind — still, care counts.
Step 5: Restore the Moisture
Once completely dry, apply a high-quality leather conditioner — sparingly. Massage it into the surface using a soft cloth, using circular motions.
This reintroduces lost moisture, softens the leather, and brings back its natural luster.
Step 6: Store It with Intention
Now that your leather jacket is dry and conditioned, hang it on a wide, padded hanger to preserve its shape. Store it in a breathable clothing bag out of direct sunlight, damp conditions, and crowded areas.
It deserves space. It deserves dignity.
What to Avoid (Always):
- No hair dryers or heaters
- No detergents or vinegar-based cleaners
- No plastic bags for storage
- No wringing or twisting the jacket
- No shortcuts