Hi, I’m Emma, and I’ve had my fair share of experiences with leather jackets. How to Wash a Leather Jacket in a Washing Machine? Washing a leather jacket in a washing machine might sound risky, but trust me, it’s doable if you follow the right steps. Leather jackets are stylish and durable, but they do need special care. Here’s how I’ve managed to keep mine looking pristine over the years.
Contents
- 1 What should I do first: 2 main steps
- 2 How to Wash a Leather Jacket in a Washing Machine In 3 Steps?
- 3 How to Dry Leather Jacket After Washing?
- 4 Conditioning the Leather After Washing
- 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid If You Wash a Leather Jacket in a Washing Machine
- 6 FAQ
- 6.1 Can All Leather Jackets Be Machine Washed?
- 6.2 What should I do if my leather jacket is very dirty?
- 6.3 How Often Should I Wash My Leather Jacket?
- 6.4 Can I Use a Dryer?
- 6.5 What to Do If the Jacket Gets Wet?
- 6.6 Does leather jacket shrink after wash?
- 6.7 What’s the Best Detergent for Washing Leather Jackets?
- 6.8 Can I Use Fabric Softener on Leather Jackets?
- 6.9 Is It Safe to Iron a Leather Jacket?
- 6.10 How Do I Store My Leather Jacket?
- 7 Conclusion
What should I do first: 2 main steps
The first thing I always do is check the care label. It’s crucial to know if your jacket can handle machine washing. I once ignored this step and ended up ruining a beloved jacket.
I know that many people pay attention to the label after they have ruined the item or simply don’t look at it at all. Some of my friends even cut it off to make the product look more beautiful. But I still advise you to pay attention to all the inscriptions on the label. This will help keep the item looking beautiful longer.
I’ve learned the hard way to always do a spot test before washing. I apply a small amount of mild detergent to an inconspicuous area of the jacket to see if it causes any discoloration or damage. This step has saved me from potential disasters more than once.
How to Wash a Leather Jacket in a Washing Machine In 3 Steps?
- Before placing the jacket in the washing machine, I pre-treat any stains with a leather cleaner. I gently apply Chamberlain’s Leather Milk to the stained areas using a soft cloth and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off.
- It’s not just lingerie and lace items that need to be washed in a laundry bag. I put my leather jacket there too. This way, scratches from the drum will not appear on it.
- I always use cold water and choose a gentle mode. For my cleanser, I choose a mild one, adding just enough to get the job done without overloading my skin. I prefer Woolite Delicates.
How to Dry Leather Jacket After Washing?
How do I dry my jacket? Everything is simple and very natural.
No tumble dryers unless the label says so!!! Just pat dry with a soft towel first. Never squeeze excess moisture out of the jacket. You can just shake it slightly.
Now you can lay it out on a dry towel in the shade, ensuring good airflow. Or hang it on a hanger and a clothesline so that the air envelops it evenly.
If the label says you can tumble dry the leather jacket, I would recommend adding a few tennis balls. The speed and temperature should be low.
Conditioning the Leather After Washing
Once the jacket is completely dry, I apply Lexol Leather Conditioner.
Everything is simple here – a little product that needs to be rubbed with smooth movements. Why do you need air conditioning, you ask? It’s simple, you use conditioner to make your hair shiny and soft, right? Imagine how well-groomed not only your hair, but also your leather jacket will shine in the sun.
And it will be very soft to the touch. Moreover, the smell will be very pleasant. I think that’s a pretty compelling fact, right?
After conditioning, I buff the leather jacket with a clean, soft cloth to remove any excess conditioner and give it a nice shine.
Regular maintenance is key. I clean and condition my jackets every few months to keep them in top shape.
Common Mistakes to Avoid If You Wash a Leather Jacket in a Washing Machine
Here are some personal tips and lessons I’ve learned the hard way to help you avoid common mistakes when washing a leather jacket in a washing machine.
| Mistake | Personal Experience and Advice |
|---|---|
| Hot Water and High Spin | Never use hot water or high spin speeds. I learned this lesson the hard way when I accidentally shrank a beautiful jacket. Always stick to cold water and gentle cycles. |
| Harsh Detergents | Avoid harsh detergents or bleach. They can strip the natural oils from the leather, leaving it dry and brittle. I always use mild detergents like Woolite Delicates. |
| Overloading | Don’t overload the washing machine. It’s better to wash the jacket on its own to prevent damage. I found that giving the jacket enough space in the drum helps maintain its shape. |
| Direct Heat Drying | Avoid drying the jacket in direct sunlight or using high heat sources. I once tried to speed up the drying process with a hairdryer, and it didn’t end well. Air drying on a flat surface away from direct heat works best. |
With these tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and keep your leather jacket looking its best.
When not in use, I store my leather jackets in a cool, dry place, preferably on a padded hanger to maintain their shape.
FAQ
Can All Leather Jackets Be Machine Washed?
No. Always check the care label.
What should I do if my leather jacket is very dirty?
Perhaps you should consider professional cleaning? Yes, it is more expensive, but more reliable.
How Often Should I Wash My Leather Jacket?
It is about washing that I cannot say about regularity, I will say this – according to need and dirtiness. But you need to wipe and use the conditioner at least once a season.
Can I Use a Dryer?
Some leather jackets can be tumble dried on low heat, but it’s safer to air dry them. Always refer to the care label.
What to Do If the Jacket Gets Wet?
If my jacket gets wet, I gently blot it with a towel and let it air dry naturally. Then, I condition it to restore moisture.
Does leather jacket shrink after wash?
Yes, leather jackets can shrink after washing, especially if exposed to water and heat, so it’s best to clean them with specialized leather cleaners.
What’s the Best Detergent for Washing Leather Jackets?
I always use a mild detergent like Woolite Delicates. It’s gentle on the leather and cleans effectively without causing damage.
Can I Use Fabric Softener on Leather Jackets?
No, fabric softeners can damage the leather. Stick to leather-specific conditioners like Lexol or Chamberlain’s Leather Milk.
Is It Safe to Iron a Leather Jacket?
I wouldn’t recommend ironing a leather jacket. Instead, I use a garment steamer on a low setting to remove wrinkles without damaging the leather.
How Do I Store My Leather Jacket?
I store my leather jackets on padded hangers in a cool, dry place. This helps maintain their shape and prevents wrinkles.
Conclusion
Washing a leather jacket in a washing machine requires care and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure your jacket stays in great condition. Remember, the key is to be gentle and patient. Proper care will extend the life of your jacket, keeping it stylish and durable for years to come.