How to Clean Leather Products: A Step-by-Step Guide
You’ve invested in quality leather—whether it’s a jacket, bag, wallet, or accessories—
and it deserves proper care. If you’re wondering how to keep your leather clean without damaging
the surface, this guide walks you through simple, safe cleaning steps you can do at home.
Why Cleaning Leather Matters
A good leather product is more than something you wear—it’s an investment. Over time,
dust, sweat, and oils can build up and cause leather to lose its natural shine. Regular cleaning
keeps it soft, preserves its colour, and helps it age beautifully.
Before you begin, gather these essentials:
- Soft, clean cloth
- Mild detergent or gentle soap
- Cold water
- Sponge
- Leather conditioner
- Lint-free towel
Using the right tools makes cleaning quicker, easier, and safer for your leather.
Step 1: Check the Care Label
Always start by checking the care label or tag. It tells you what type of leather you’re dealing with
and which cleaning methods are safe. Following the label helps prevent accidental damage.
Step 2: Do a Quick Spot Test
Before cleaning the entire item, test a small hidden patch first. Dab a bit of your cleaning mix on it.
If the colour and texture stay the same, you’re safe to continue. If not, consider professional cleaning.
Step 3: Clean Fabric or Wool Parts (If Applicable)
If your leather item has wool or fabric panels, treat them gently. Mix one part vinegar with
eight parts cold water and add a few drops of mild soap. Dampen a cloth and carefully dab the
surface—avoid rubbing, which can stretch or damage the fibres.
Step 4: Clean the Leather Sections
Use a damp sponge with a small amount of mild detergent to gently clean the leather surface.
Avoid soaking it. After removing dirt, apply a thin layer of leather conditioner using a clean cloth.
This keeps the leather soft and prevents cracking.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any leftover soap. Pat the leather dry with a lint-free towel.
Avoid wringing or twisting—it can distort the shape or ruin stitching.
Step 6: Air-Dry Properly
Let your leather air dry naturally in a cool, ventilated place. Do not use direct sunlight or heaters.
Slow drying keeps the texture smooth and prevents cracking.
Step 7: Store Your Leather Correctly
Once dry, store your leather properly. Use padded hangers for jackets and breathable cotton bags
for smaller items. Avoid plastic covers—leather needs airflow to stay in good condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Hot water: Can shrink or warp leather.
- Machine washing: Damages stitching and structure.
- Harsh cleaners: Strip natural oils and fade colour.
Wrapping It Up
Cleaning leather isn’t complicated—it just requires gentle care and the right steps.
By following this guide, you’ll keep your leather looking great and lasting longer.
Quality leather only improves with age when it’s maintained properly.
