Jackets seem to be made to last regardless of the weather conditions and frequency of wearing. However, without proper care, you may have to say goodbye to your stylish outerwear too soon. This could be especially sad if it’s your favorite jacket.

In this article, we’ll talk about several ways to take care of your jackets. All the below tips are simple. All you have to do is find a little time. Don’t avoid care, and you may be surprised by how long your garments last.

Caring for Leather Jackets

It doesn’t matter whether your jacket is fully made of leather or leather parts; these tips can help you keep it in top shape. Leather jackets can last a lifetime and beyond.

1. Use Leather Protector

Leather protector isn’t expensive, but it can save you lots of money on jacket replacement. Applying such a protector at least once a season can make your jacket resistant to moisture, oil, and stains.

2. Always Hang It

Never fold your jacket when you aren’t wearing it. You should place it on a hanger. Don’t wrap it in plastic. Make sure the hanger is large enough to help the jacket keep its shape. Don’t stuff it into the closet with numerous other garments. The garment should have some space to “breathe”.

3. Read the Label

Always follow cleaning instructions on the label. Different types of leather may need different care. According to jacket experts from VarsityBase, instructions are especially important for garments, which only have leather inserts. Combined materials need special care.

4. Clean Lightly

To clean a leather jacket, you can use a soft cotton cloth and soapy water. Wipe the garment instead of soaking it. Ideally, you should delegate the cleaning process to the professional dry cleaner at least once a year. Most likely you’ll see “dry clean only” on the label.

Caring for Faux Leather Jackets

As faux leather is gaining popularity, more and more companies are offering faux leather jackets. The benefits of such a material are obvious, but it may not last as long as real leather does. Faux leather needs special care as well.

1. Keep Away from Fire

Faux leather is highly flammable. So make sure to keep it away from heat sources. Such material catches fire quickly and can be damaged by heat. That’s why these jackets can’t be dry cleaned.

2. Check the Label

Faux leather garments can usually be washed in a washing machine, using a special mild detergent. However, some may need to be hand washed or cleaned otherwise. Make sure to read the cleaning instructions.

3. Spot Clean

You can spot clean your jacket with a soft microfiber cloth and soapy water. Make sure to do it regularly.

Take care of stains with a mix of mild detergent and white vinegar. Dip a cloth into the solution and rub the stain gently. Some stains can be removed with isopropyl alcohol. However, you should spot test it before using.

Caring for Polyester Jackets

Polyester jackets are highly popular due to their variety, durability, and lightness. They need special care and attention to last longer.

1. Machine Washing

The majority of polyester jackets can be washed in a machine along with other polyester clothing. However, you should use a gentle cycle. Add fabric softener to ensure static reduction unless it’s a fleece jacket.

After washing, consider drying the jacket flat or hanging it to dry. Drying machines may reduce the lifespan of polyester clothing.

2. Storage

Don’t fold your jacket for storage even if you do it with the rest of your polyester garments. It could lose shape or acquire permanent creases.

3. Dry Cleaning

Some polyester jackets are labeled “Dry Clean Only”. Don’t try to wash those in a washing machine. However, you can spot clean them with a mild detergent.

Caring for a Fur Jacket

Fur jackets may be losing their popularity, but they are among the most stylish garments on the market today. This outerwear is expensive and needs special care to extend their lifespan.

1. Storage

It’s vital to store such a jacket in a cool, dark, dry place since it’s easily damaged by sunlight, humidity, and heat.

Make sure you place the fur garment in a special bag for storage. Otherwise, it can be eaten up by moths.

2. Washing

Never wash the fur jacket at home. You should always give it to a professional fur cleaner. Consider cleaning it once a year.

3. Exploitation

Try not to wear your jacket when it snows or rains. Fur doesn’t withstand moisture well. If you accidentally spill something on the garment, make sure to shake it out immediately and hang in a dry place.

Caring for Woolen Jackets

Woolen jackets are popular and stylish. They provide excellent warming properties and comfort.

1. Dry Cleaning

Give your woolen jacket to the dry cleaners at least once a year. If you wear it in the fall, winter, and spring, consider cleaning it twice a year.

2. Storage

Store this jacket in a cool, dry, and dark place. Make sure to place it in a garment bag since wool can be damaged by moths.

3. Machine Wash

Some woolen jackets can be machine washed. Before cleaning the garment in the machine, put it into a mesh bag.

Don’t put the jacket in a dryer. Wring it as hard as possible with your hands and hang to dry.

Take good care of your stylish jackets, and they will take care of you!