How to Wash Leather Jackets

Leather jackets are a great accessory, but do need to be cleaned to keep them looking their best. You can't just throw a leather jacket in the washing machine, but there are easy ways to keep it shiny and smelling great.

Things You'll Need
* Leather soap & rag
* Damp cloth
* Vinegar (optional)
* Febreze

Step 1
The best way to clean leather is with leather soap. Different types and colors of leather need certain soaps, so ask the shop where you bought your jacket what they recommend. If you're unsure, be sure to read the back of the bottles, and test each product in an out-of-sight area, like the inner waist band that no one will see.
Step 2
If you don't have leather soap, you can wipe down light dirt and scuffs with a damp rag. Be sure not to get your coat too wet, which can ruin the leather.
Step 3
For hard to remove smells, like smoke or pet odors, try wiping the coat with a 50% vinegar-50%water solution. Be sure to wash the vinegar off with a damp rag. If the odor is too strong, you may need to have it dry cleaned (don't use the at-home dry cleaning bags, the dryer is not a safe place for a leather jacket).
Step 4
If the inner lining of the jacket smells, use a little bit of odor-absorbing spray, like Febreze. Be sure you mist it lightly, don't get the coat too wet.

Tips & Warnings

If your leather jacket is already soaking wet, don't stretch it out to dry. Allow it to dry flat, and flip the jacket often so it dries evenly. After it has fully dried, the leather may be stiff, but leather soap might help this.