How to Store Leather Jacket During the Off-Season?

Leather jackets and other leather outerwear are perfect for the colder months, but as the snow melts and the weather warms up, it's time to switch to lighter, more breathable fabrics. However, that doesn't mean you should neglect your favorite leather items. Use these helpful tips to store your leather jackets during the summer properly, so they stay in excellent condition and are ready to wear again when fall arrives.

Prepare your leather for storage.

Before storing your leather jackets and coats for the season, it's important to prepare them properly. Taking the time to have them professionally cleaned, repaired, and conditioned will help preserve their quality and ensure they last for many years to come.

1. Clean Your Leather Jacket

While faux-leather jackets can sometimes be washed at home—always check the care label first—genuine leather requires professional cleaning. For best results, leather or suede jackets should be taken to a dry cleaner at least once per season.

Although you can spot-clean minor stains using a quality leather cleaner, it's safest to leave full cleaning to professionals. Leather requires special care, and professionals with expertise in leather cleaning are equipped to handle it properly without causing damage.

Having your leather jacket or coat professionally cleaned before storing it during warmer seasons can help maintain its appearance and longevity.

2. Condition your leather jacket.

Once your leather jacket has been cleaned and any necessary repairs are made, apply a leather conditioner to maintain its softness and flexibility. Conditioning the leather helps prevent it from drying out and cracking over time, ensuring it stays in great shape for years to come.

3. Choose the Right Environment

Because leather reacts to its surroundings, proper storage is key to preserving its quality:

• Temperature: Store your leather jacket in a place that’s cool and dry. Extreme heat or cold can warp or ruin the material.

• Humidity: Keep humidity at a moderate level. High moisture can result in mildew, while very dry air may cause the leather to dry out and crack.

• Light: Avoid exposing the jacket to direct sunlight or strong indoor lighting, as this can cause fading and drying of the leather.

4. Use a Quality Garment Bag

For long-term storage, a garment bag provides valuable protection for your leather jacket:

• Breathable Materials: Select a garment bag made from natural, breathable fabric like cotton. Avoid plastic covers, as they can trap humidity and increase the likelihood of mold or mildew.

• Proper Ventilation: Ensure the garment bag allows for air circulation. This prevents moisture buildup and preserves the leather’s integrity. Regularly inspect the jacket to confirm it remains dry and mold-free. 

The best way to store a leather jacket

When it comes to storing leather apparel, there are multiple safe and effective options available. Whether you choose to hang or fold your leather pieces, they can remain in excellent condition as long as they're properly cared for.

How to fold leather jackets

If you prefer to fold your leather jacket, use a roomy wooden bin to ensure it has enough space to breathe. Avoid plastic containers, as they block airflow and can damage the leather over time.

If folding doesn't allow for adequate ventilation, hanging the jacket is a better option to maintain its quality.

How to hang leather jackets

A wide, solid wooden hanger is usually the best option, as it helps distribute the jacket's weight evenly and supports its natural form.

Use a sturdy, well-shaped hanger that supports the jacket's natural structure. Avoid thin wire hangers—they're too flimsy to support the weight of leather and can cause the shoulders to sag over time. This sagging may lead to creases that are difficult to fix.

Preventing creases is far easier than removing them, so protect your jacket by investing in high-quality hangers from the start.

Best hanger for leather jackets

Wooden hangers are ideal for leather jackets because they offer firm, uniform support that helps preserve the jacket's structure. However, a wide, heavy-duty plastic hanger can also work well.

Whichever option you choose, make sure the hanger is broad enough to support the jacket's shoulders and maintain its natural shape.

More tips for storing leather jackets

Before storing your leather garments, be sure to zip all zippers and fasten any buttons to help them retain their shape.

For long-term storage, especially during warmer months, it's a good idea to gently stuff the interior with acid-free paper to maintain structure and prevent creasing.