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Friday, 2 October 2026Fashion, style and modelingLTEN
How to wash

How to clean a leather jacket

A real leather jacket can't be washed – water shrinks and stiffens it. It's wiped with a damp cloth, conditioned, and every few years taken to a leather specialist.

A typical label
Do not washDo not bleachDo not tumble dryDo not ironDry clean (F)

Always follow your garment's own label – it beats any general advice.

Everyday care

  1. Wipe dust off with a dry microfibre cloth; marks with a barely damp cloth and a drop of mild soap, then dry.
  2. Once or twice a season – a thin layer of leather conditioner, tested on a hidden spot.

If it gets wet

  1. Blot with a towel and dry on a wide hanger at room temperature. Not by a radiator – the leather cracks.

Common mistakes

  • The washing machine or the bath – the leather shrinks and stiffens.
  • Storing in a plastic bag – leather can't breathe and goes mouldy.
Questions and answers

Frequently asked

Got the whole label?

Pick all its symbols and get the washer, dryer and iron settings in one place.

Decode the labelPrintable symbol chart →
01Can a leather jacket be washed?

Real leather – no. Faux leather (PU) can sometimes be hand-washed cold if the label allows.

More guides

All laundry symbols →
How to wash cashmereHow to wash woolHow to wash silkHow to wash a puffer jacketHow to wash a hatHow to wash white clothesHow to wash sneakersHow to wash jeansHow to wash linenHow to wash brasHow to wash polyester

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