Posted on August 28th, 2024.

Welcome to our article on how to clean leather clothes without damaging them! Leather is a timeless and versatile material that adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. However, cleaning leather can be a daunting task, as it requires special care to prevent damage.

In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to properly clean your leather clothes and maintain their quality and appearance. Whether you have a leather jacket, pants, or any other clothing item made of leather, this guide will provide you with the necessary knowledge to keep them looking their best. So, let's dive in and learn how to clean leather clothes effectively!

Understanding Leather Types Before Cleaning

Understanding the different types of leather is crucial before diving into how to clean leather clothes effectively.

Full-grain leather, often considered the highest quality, retains the complete grain of the hide and is more breathable and durable. However, its natural surface makes it more susceptible to staining and should be cleaned gently with a damp cloth and a specialized leather cleaner.

Top-grain leather, while still high-quality, has had the split layer removed, making it thinner and more pliable but less breathable. It typically handles cleaning solutions better but can still be damaged by harsh chemicals or excessive moisture.

Bonded leather, on the other hand, is made from leftover pieces of leather, which are bonded together with latex or other synthetics. This type is generally less durable and can degrade quicker than its full-grain or top-grain counterparts. Cleaning bonded leather requires extra care because the bonding agents can sometimes react poorly to certain cleaning solutions.

Suede, another popular leather type, has a napped finish that can be very delicate; it is best cleaned using a suede brush and specific suede cleaner, avoiding water as much as possible to prevent staining and stiffening.

Nubuck leather, which has been sanded or buffed to give a slight nap of short protein fibers, is similar to suede in texture but usually stronger and thicker. It can be cleaned with a softer brush and specialized nubuck cleaner. When you're unsure about a cleaning method, it’s always wise to perform a spot test on a hidden area before applying any solution to the entire garment. 

Basic Leather Cleaning Tools and Products

Once you’ve identified your leather type, it’s time to gather the essential leather cleaning products needed to keep your garments looking their best. A specialized leather cleaner is crucial for removing dirt and grime without stripping away the natural oils that keep leather supple. It’s important to choose a cleaner specifically formulated for the type of leather you have, whether it’s full-grain, top-grain, bonded, or suede. These cleaners typically come in liquid or cream form and should be applied with a soft, lint-free cloth. Gently work the cleaner into the leather using circular motions, focusing on one small section at a time. After cleaning, wipe away any excess with a clean cloth and allow the leather to dry naturally, away from direct heat sources.

Following the cleaning, a good leather conditioner is essential to replenish the natural oils and maintain the leather's flexibility and sheen. Conditioners can come in the form of creams, balms, or oils. They should be used sparingly to avoid making the leather too oil-rich, which can lead to a sticky surface and potential damage over time. Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of conditioner, working it into the leather in light, even strokes.  Once applied, let the conditioner soak in for a few hours or overnight, and then buff the surface gently to restore the leather's natural luster.

Additionally, having a set of high-quality soft cloths on hand is indispensable. When you clean leather with cloth, make sure it’s a material that won't scratch or abrade the surface. Microfiber cloths are ideal due to their softness and ability to pick up dirt and debris without being harsh. For suede items, a suede brush or eraser can effectively remove surface dirt and renew the nap. 

Effective Leather Clothes Stain Removal Techniques

Understanding leather clothes stain removal techniques is essential in the maintenance of your valuable garments. When faced with common stains like ink, oil, and food on leather clothes, each requires specific care to avoid causing damage.

Ink

For ink stains, which can be particularly stubborn, the first step is to blot the stain gently with a clean, dry cloth to absorb any excess ink. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the ink further into the leather. You can then apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or a leather cleaner specifically designed for ink stains using a cotton swab. Gently dabbing, rather than scrubbing, ensures that you treat the ink without harming the leather's surface. Once the stain lifts, wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any residual cleaner and follow up with a conditioner to restore moisture.

Oil

Dealing with oil stains on leather requires immediate action to prevent the oil from setting in. Blot the area with a dry cloth to soak up as much oil as possible. It’s essential not to use water initially, as this can help set the stain. For persistent oil stains, sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder over the affected area. These powders will absorb the oil from the leather if left to sit for several hours, preferably overnight. Following this, gently brush off the powder with a soft cloth and reapply if necessary. For additional support, you may use a specialized degreaser made for leather, applying it sparingly and following up with a conditioner to keep the leather from drying out.

Food

Food stains, especially those from acidic substances like tomato sauce or wine, need prompt attention to avoid long-term damage. If the stain is still wet, carefully blot it with a clean cloth to remove excess liquid. For dried food stains, a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can help. Lightly dampen a cloth with this solution and gently dab the stain, avoiding soaking the leather. Vinegar can help break down the stain without being too harsh. Always spot test in an inconspicuous area first. After treating the stain, make sure to apply a leather conditioner to maintain the garment's suppleness. Regular maintenance using these techniques ensures your leather clothes remain in impeccable condition while effectively removing pesky stains without inflicting damage.

Ongoing Leather Maintenance Tips

Maintaining leather clothing extends beyond cleaning, making ongoing leather maintenance a priority. Leather is a natural material that benefits from regular conditioning to stay soft and supple. Depending on the type of leather and frequency of wear, conditioning should be done every few months. 

Proper storage of leather garments is just as vital as cleaning and conditioning. Always hang leather clothing on padded hangers to maintain their shape. Storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight is crucial, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the color to fade and the leather to dry out.

Additionally, steer clear of plastic covers which can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew. Instead, opt for breathable fabric covers that allow air circulation while protecting from dust. If the garment will be stored for an extended period, periodically check on it to ensure it remains in good condition. Addressing any issues promptly can prevent minor problems from becoming major damage.

Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers, as these can cause shrinkage and damage. Once dry, leather can benefit from a light application of conditioner to restore any lost oils. If you live in a humid area, consider using silica gel packets in your storage area to control moisture levels. 

We can help

From stubborn stains to routine maintenance, our team is adept at using the right products and techniques tailored to various leather types. 

Visit our website to learn more about our leather cleaning services. For personalized assistance, give us a call at (860) 653-4253, or drop us an email at [email protected]. Let Granby Garment Cleaners be your trusted partner in keeping your leather garments looking pristine and elegant.