Few things are more exciting for secondhand shoppers than discovering a vintage leather or suede coat in good condition. Leather and suede are durable, warm, and natural materials that will see you through many chilly days—if cared for, cleaned, and stored properly. Fortunately, learning how to care for a leather coat or one-of-a-kind vintage suede simply takes a gentle touch and a few affordable products.
To help keep your leather and suede looking and feeling its best, we turned to a vintage sourcing and restoration specialist and an expert cleaner. Here, they shared their best tips for how to clean vintage leather coats and suede jackets. Follow them below to ensure your newly thrifted goodies last a lifetime.
- Alicia Sokolowski, president and Co-CEO of AspenClean
- Taylor Jochim-Smoot, vintage sourcing and restoration specialist, interior designer, and founder of Portland Revibe
Clean Leather Carefully
Vintage leather coats are sturdy, but they require gentle cleaning to keep them looking their best. “Make sure to use a damp cloth, then gently wipe down the surface to remove dirt,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and Co-CEO of AspenClean. Be careful not to soak the leather excessively because too much water can damage the material, causing it to stiffen. If your coat has a particularly tough stain, mix natural soap with water and wipe it with a soft microfiber cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals.
Use a Specialized Suede Brush
Clean suede coats using a special brush designed for suede. “The suede brush helps lift dirt and restore texture,” explains Sokolowski. Always brush suede in one direction to protect the fibers. If you need to treat a stain, spot-clean it by sprinkling cornstarch or baking soda on the spot. Allow it to sit overnight, then brush it off the following day.
Opt for Sturdy Hangers
Leather and suede jackets tend to be on the heavy side, so it’s important to store them using sturdy hangers made specifically for jackets. These hangers have more shoulder support and help the coat keep its shape and support its weight, says Taylor Jochim-Smoot, a vintage sourcing and restoration specialist. Folding leather and suede jackets can leave hard-to-remove creases and cause them to be permanently misshapen.
Remove Creases Carefully
If your leather or suede coat has creases, remove them carefully to preserve the jacket’s integrity and prevent further damage. “Use a dry cloth and a clothes steamer to remove the wrinkles,” says Jochim-Smoot. “Once complete, a good all-natural clear leather moisturizer will help even out all the color.” Don’t use a traditional iron, as it can do more harm than good.
Treat Leather With Water Repellent
Inclement weather can damage a leather coat, but you can pretreat it with a water repellent to protect it from moisture. Sokolowski recommends a blend of olive oil and vinegar as an all-natural water repellent. “You can rub a small amount onto the coat and buff it over the jacket with a soft cloth to create a protective layer,” she says. Just be careful not to use too much oil, as it can leave stains behind.
Use a Natural Suede Protector
It’s always a good idea to use a suede protector to keep the material safe from inclement weather. “Use a natural suede protector, either recommended by the manufacturer or opt for a product made with non-toxic ingredients to protect the material from severe weather conditions,” says Sokolowski. Reapply regularly to keep your coat weather-ready.
Moisturize Regularly
Moisturize your vintage leather and suede jackets annually with an all-natural clear moisturizer to prevent drying and cracking. This is especially important if you live in a dry climate. “Keeping them moisturized helps keep the jacket from becoming stiff, helps it better fit your body, and keeps the leather looking fresh,” explains Jochim-Smoot.
Always Air Dry
If your leather or suede coat gets wet, allow it to air dry naturally. Never put it in the dryer or use a radiator or hair dryer. “Hang your jacket in a well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and cracking,” says Sokolowski.
Store In a Cool, Dry Place
How you store your suede and leather coats in the off-season makes a big impact on how they’ll look when you’re ready to wear them again. Keep them in a cool, dry place, free from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity, instructs Sokolowski. Also, make sure there is good airflow to prevent mold or mildew. Opt for breathable cotton covers, as plastic traps moisture and can foster mold or other damage.
