No matter the style you invest in, it's important to know how to care for your leather and ensure it stands the test of time and gets more beautiful with wear.

Before You Wear Your Leather Jacket or Coat

Before you think about what to wear it with, you should be thinking about how to protect it. It's no different to how you protect those leather boots you've had for years! The key to keeping your jacket looking its best is treat the leather with a leather protector. The protector helps repel water and prevents stains. Even getting caught in the rain can damage your jacket, so this first step is critical to keep your jacket looking its best. You should reapply a leather protector at least once a year, or more often if your jacket is frequently exposed to harsh weather.

There are a few other things to consider:

• Leather stretches – avoid cramming your pockets full of things like keys and lipsticks as this can stretch the leather into unusual shapes.
• Apply products like perfume and hairspray before you put your jacket on. These products contain alcohol which can stain the leather.
• If you're adding embellishments like badges or brooches, consider having a professional do it for you so you don't irreparably damage the leather.
• Also, have a professional do any size alterations, holes caused by incorrect stitching are nearly impossible to remove.

How to Clean Leather Jackets and CoatIf your leather jacket has been properly treated and protected, most soil can be wiped away with a clean, damp cloth. Of course, removing tougher stains like mildew or ink from leather requires specific treatment. If the inner lining is soiled with body oil and perspiration, we recommend heading to a professional leather cleaning expert.

Always check the credentials of your dry cleaner, not every laundromat is qualified to clean leather. However, if the inner lining is made of a washable fabric (always read the fabric content and care labels), you can hand-wash your garment at home. If you decide to wash your leather jacket at home, you will need to be prepared to devote time to the process and properly condition the leather after it has been washed.

Caution: Hand-washing is appropriate for aniline leather finishes only. Never wash suede or nubuck garments. Before you try this, test the color-fastness of the leather using a clean, white, wet cloth on an interior spot of the leather. If colour transfers to the cloth, the dye is not stable on the leather and you should not proceed.

How to Store Leather Jackets

Storing your leather jacket properly will prevent many problems. Use a wide sturdy hanger to support the weight of your jacket. Jackets should be stored in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Avoid any location that has excessive moisture, even a closet near a bathroom. If you are concerned about dust, cover the jacket with a cloth garment bag or cotton sheet. Never store it in a plastic bag that could trap moisture and promote mildew.

Avoid ironing if at all possible. If you must iron, use a cool to medium temperature iron and pressing cloth over the leather. If you use too much heat, you'll have a permanent shiny iron print on the leather.