Product Care & Maintenance Guide

Last updated: 17 October 2025

Thank you for choosing The Jacket Maker.
Our leather jackets are handcrafted from premium-quality hides, designed to last a lifetime with the right care.
This guide explains how to clean, protect, and store your leather garments so they stay in excellent condition for years.

1. Understanding Real Leather

Leather is a natural material, meaning each jacket has unique grain patterns, texture variations, and slight color differences.
These are not flaws — they’re signs of authenticity and craftsmanship.

Different types of leather used in our products include:

  • Cowhide: Strong, thick, and durable — ideal for biker and moto jackets.

  • Sheepskin: Softer, lighter, and more flexible — perfect for fashion or casual styles.

  • Goatskin: Naturally textured and resilient — offers both comfort and toughness.

Each requires similar care but responds best to gentle handling and regular conditioning.

2. Daily Care Tips

Follow these simple steps to keep your jacket looking and feeling like new:

  • Avoid water exposure: Leather is water-resistant, not waterproof. If it gets wet, gently wipe away moisture and air dry at room temperature.

  • Keep away from heat sources: Never dry your jacket near radiators, heaters, or direct sunlight — heat can crack or fade the leather.

  • Use a padded hanger: Always hang your jacket on a wide, shaped hanger to maintain its form and prevent wrinkles.

  • Avoid plastic covers: Use a breathable garment bag (cotton or muslin) instead — leather needs to breathe.

  • Rotate wear: Avoid wearing your jacket daily for long periods; this helps prevent overstretching or uneven wear.

3. Cleaning Instructions

  • Regular dusting: Wipe with a soft, dry, or slightly damp cloth.

  • For deeper cleaning: Use a leather-specific cleaner (not household soap or alcohol). Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently rub in circular motions.

  • Never machine wash or dry clean — these methods damage leather fibres.

For stubborn stains, seek help from a professional leather cleaner only.

4. Conditioning & Protection

Leather naturally loses moisture over time, which can cause it to dry out or crack. To prevent this:

  • Condition every 3–6 months: Use a quality leather conditioner or cream. Apply sparingly and allow it to absorb overnight.

  • Avoid silicone-based or wax-heavy products — these can block the pores and alter the texture.

  • Use a leather protector spray if you live in a humid or rainy area. Always test the product on a hidden area first.

5. Storage Guidelines

When not in use:

  • Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or heat.

  • Avoid folding or compressing — it can cause permanent creases.

  • Keep away from plastic wrap or sealed containers, which trap moisture.

If storing long-term, condition the jacket before storage and air it out every few months.

6. Removing Odours

If your jacket develops an odour:

  • Hang it in a well-ventilated room away from sunlight.

  • Use activated charcoal or baking soda pouches nearby to absorb odours (never apply directly on the leather).

  • Avoid using perfumes or air fresheners directly on the jacket — these can stain or damage the surface.

7. Caring for Lining & Hardware

  • Lining: Spot-clean gently with a damp cloth or fabric cleaner; avoid soaking.

  • Zippers & Buttons: Occasionally apply a small amount of beeswax or zipper lubricant to keep them smooth.

  • Metal trims: Wipe regularly with a soft dry cloth to prevent tarnishing.

8. Faux (Vegan) Leather Jackets

For our vegan leather options (PU or synthetic materials):

  • Clean with mild soap and warm water.

  • Do not use conditioners meant for real leather.

  • Keep away from excessive sunlight to prevent cracking or fading.

These jackets require less maintenance but still benefit from gentle care and proper storage.

9. Professional Leather Care

For major cleaning, deep conditioning, or restoration, always visit a professional leather specialist.
Attempting to fix scratches, dye, or clean stains at home with chemicals may permanently damage the jacket.

10. Summary of Best Practices

Care Area Do Don’t
Cleaning Use leather cleaner, soft cloth Never machine wash or dry clean
Drying Air dry naturally Avoid heat or sunlight
Conditioning Every 3–6 months Don’t over-apply
Storage Hang in breathable bag Don’t fold or cover in plastic
Protection Use waterproof spray Don’t use harsh chemicals

Need Help?

If you have any questions about caring for your leather jacket or need professional advice, our team is happy to assist.

Contact us:
support@thejacketmaker.shop
+44 7877 184854
Office 96, 85 Dunstall Hill, Wolverhampton, United Kingdom WV6 0SR
Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (UK Time)