Leather jackets are always in fashion, but new ones and those not regularly treated can be really uncomfortable. Ever wish you could find out how to make a leather jacket less rigid without losing its fashion appeal? In this guide, we will show you 5 or 7 easy ways to soften your leather jacket so it is more flexible and comfy and explain how the grade of leather is important.
Step 1: Use Leather Conditioner
the solution to softening a leather jacket is a good quality leather conditioner. Various kinds of conditioners help replenish the oils and soften the leather. Take a clean, dry cloth, wet it in a small quantity of the conditioner, and apply it to the jacket. Calmly massage it round and round and leave it for a few hours, or as long as possible, depending on the time, before washing it off. This process will tan the leather and make it creamy in the long run. Leather jackets are very comfortable, especially when conditioned every few months to maintain the soft material.
Step 2: Wear It Regularly
Another obvious method to perform a natural breaking-in process on a leather jacket is wearing it often. If you wear it more, it becomes less sturdy because it adapts to the contours of your body and the gait you establish. If your jacket is too stiff, wear it around the house for short periods. Movement helps break in the leather fibers, making the jacket softer and more comfortable.
Step 3: Apply Heat (With Caution)
Heat can be used to break the coming-over of leather, but beware! An explosion of temperature is also bad because it may spoil the material. Depending on the use, a little warmth may be needed to make the leather more manageable.
To apply heat, direct a hair dryer so its heat is low. Blow over the surface of the jacket in a sawing motion. Do not place the dryer in one position for long, and do not let the cords hang! After that, rub the leather conditioner to prevent it from cracking, which is caused by drying out the skin.
Step 4: Use Natural Oils
Vegetable products such as coconut or olive oil and animal products like mink oil are also good for softening leather. It is best for lubricating the jacket or putting in some sort of coat, which gives the jacket some form of flexibility and a polished look. Opt for a small quantity of oil and place it on a soft material, particularly a cloth that won’t shed fiber, then apply this softly on the jacket in a circular motion. This method works well, especially if the jackets have dried up or become stiff.
Step 5- Store Your Jacket Correctly
Proper storage is your best friend if you want your leather jacket's lovely, soft, and slightly pliable surface to remain intact. Direct sunlight and high humidity can negatively react with the jacket’s leather and should be avoided as far as possible. For best performance, please hang your jacket in a well-aerated room and avoid extremely hot or cold places. It should not be placed between other clothes to prevent wrinkles and rigidity. Proper storage helps preserve the jacket’s natural softness.
The Grade of Leather Matters
When you iron the leather jacket, remember that the grade of Leather matters. Full-grain or top-grain leather often softens more easily than lower-quality bonded leather.
- Full-grain leather: This is the finest leather. It is extremely hard-wearing and simple to soften with the correct conditioning.
- Top-grain leather: This type is only slightly processed and is of high quality; it becomes softer after frequent use and conditioning.
- Bonded leather: Sourced from crocodile skins, it's the most challenging material to condition and has a fragile surface that quickly cracks.
Understanding the leather grade is essential because, depending on the leather grade, you can get an idea of whether the process will be easy or not when applying softening to your jacket.
Does the Age of the Leather Jacket Matter?
Indeed, the age of the leather jacket plays a part in softening function. As a rule, new jackets are more rigid and require more time to become comfortable to wear. Nonetheless, if you train your jacket by using a conditioner solution and wearing it, it will stretch over time and adapt to your body.
On the other hand, older leather jackets that haven’t been well-maintained might be dry and require extra attention, including frequent conditioning and careful storage, to restore their softness. In addition, older jackets that have been properly cared for often develop a soft, worn-in feel that many people find appealing. Regular maintenance ensures the leather stays flexible and retains its natural texture.
Conclusion
Learning how to soften a leather jacket doesn't have to be complicated. Wearing it regularly, applying leather conditioners, or using natural oils will go a long way in keeping your jacket feeling new and looking great. Yes, you should remember that the quality of the leather does count, and then you need to look at how old the leather jacket is to know how much attention it has to be given.
By following the five easy methods, your jacket will not only become softer with regular wear but also more individual, becoming one of the most valued wardrobe staples.
FAQS
- Does a leather jacket soften over time?
Yes, a leather jacket, like other clothes, gets softer each time you put it on and wear it. The more you wear it, the more the leather matches the body.
- Does saddle soap soften a leather jacket?
Yes, saddle soap can assist in softening a leather jacket. It also removes dirt from the leather, making it remain soft and not dry up easily.
- Can I use oil on a faux leather jacket?
Indeed, putting oil on faux leather should be avoided at all costs. This material is synthetic and can become brittle or sticky when it comes into contact with oils.