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Learn how to safely and effectively clean the inside of a used leather jacket with a few household products and a bit of elbow grease in this easy-to-follow guide.
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Clean Your Used Leather Jacket Inside and Out With This Simple Guide As an avid used columbia jacket collector and fashion enthusiast, keeping my precious leather outerwear clean is a top priority. Nothing beats the look and feel of a lightly worn, well-cared-for vintage leather jacket. However, used leather can harbor bacteria, odors, and other undesirables if not properly cleaned. Many people only focus on conditioning the outside of a used leather jacket. But it's just as important to disinfect the inside to maintain the health and integrity of the hide. If you want to restore the inner glory of your used leather coat or jacket, here is my tried-and- true process for how to effectively disinfect the inside of any leather garment:
Step 1: Vacuum the Inside Use a handheld vacuum attachment to remove any loose dirt, debris, pet hair, etc. Pay special attention to seams, pockets, armpits, and the collar area where grime tends to accumulate. Tip: You can also use a lint roller for any stubborn bits. Step 2: Mix a Disinfecting Solution In a bowl or bucket, mix: ●1 cup of isopropyl alcohol ●1 cup of warm water ●1 tablespoon of mild dish soap The alcohol will kill bacteria while the soap helps cut through oils and grime. Step 3: Lightly Scrub With a Soft Cloth Dip a soft lint-free cloth into the solution and gently scrub the inside of the jacket. Focus on areas that touch your skin like sleeves and armpits. Take care not to oversaturate the leather.
Step 4: Allow to Air Dry Hang or lay flat to allow the interior to completely dry. This may take a few hours. The alcohol will fully evaporate. Step 5: Deodorize With Baking Soda Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the inside of the jacket. The sodium bicarbonate will help absorb any lingering odors. Let sit overnight, then shake out the excess. Step 6: Condition the Leather (Optional) For an extra level of moisturization, apply a thin coat of leather conditioner inside and out. Buff gently with a cloth to restore suppleness. With this simple cleaning regimen, you can safely and easily disinfect the inside of any used leather jacket. I was amazed at how fresh and renewed my vintage motorcycle jacket looked after cleaning. Just be careful not to oversaturate the leather or use harsh chemicals that could strip the finish. With some basic household supplies and a gentle touch, you can make a used leather coat look and smell great again. Happy cleaning, leather lover!