How to Store Leather Jackets the Right Way

Leather jackets are not just pieces of clothing; they are a symbol of style and sophistication that can make you look amazing.

However, storing leather jackets can be quite tricky especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Often times they come out of storage wrinkled, misshapen, or worse, damaged.

In this article, we will give you a few expert tips and some practical solutions that will ensure your leather jackets stay in top shape and are ready to wear whenever you need them. 

How to store leather jackets

The best way to store a leather jacket is to hang it on a wooden hanger in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat. If storing it for a long time, consider placing it in a breathable garment bag or wrapping it in a cotton sheet to protect it from dust and dirt buildup.

So, the cold season for wearing your leather jacket is over and it’s time to pack it away. But how should you store it to ensure that it stays in good condition? Below are a few ways;

1. Hanging

Hanging your leather jacket is one of the best ways to keep it looking sharp and snazzy.

Leather jackets are usually heavier than regular clothing and hanging them on a thin or wire hanger can cause the leather to stretch and lose its shape over time.

Thus, the best hangers for leather jackets should be wooden with wide shoulders since they help to distribute the weight of the jacket more evenly across the shoulders and prevent any sagging or stretching.

These wooden leather hangers also provide extra support and cushioning, which helps to preserve the integrity of the leather and keeps the jacket in good condition.

2. Folding

Folding a leather jacket can be a good alternative to hanging it especially if you don’t have enough space in your closet or you need to pack it for travel.

However, it’s important to fold the jacket carefully to avoid creasing or folding it in a way that could damage the leather.

Here are a few tips for folding a leather jacket, which can help to minimize the risk of damage.

• Lay the jacket flat on a clean dry surface with the sleeves folded inwards.
• Fold the jacket in half bringing the bottom edge up to meet the top edge.
• Smooth out any wrinkles and bumps making sure the jacket is lying flat.
• If you need to pack the leather jacket, place it in a suitcase or bag that is big enough to accommodate it without too much compression.

Note that folding a leather jacket can be a good option for short-term storage or travel but it’s generally not recommended for long-term storage as it can cause permanent creases or folds in the leather.

3. Garment bag

A garment bag is simply a type of protective bag that is designed to store and transport clothing items particularly those made of delicate materials like silk, satin, or leather.

If you have a garment bag, you can use it to store and protect your leather jacket from dust, light, and moisture.

The bag is usually made of a breathable material like cotton so there is no moisture buildup inside that can damage the jacket.

If moisture is trapped inside the bag, it can lead to mold or mildew growth, or the wetness might cause shrinkage and make the jacket smaller. So it’s important to ensure the garment bag for your leather jacket is made from a breathable material.

To store the leather jacket in the garment bag;

• Make sure the jacket is clean and dry before storing it. Any dirt or moisture left on the jacket can cause damage over time.
• Use a wooden hanger to hang the jacket inside the garment bag. To ensure it maintains its shape, stuff acid-free tissue paper inside the arms. You can also fold the jacket carefully before placing it inside the bag if you don’t have a wooden hanger.
• Store the bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.

4. Storage container

Another storage option is to put the jacket in storage containers to protect it from dust, light, and moisture.

There are a few different types of storage containers you can use, including plastic bins, cardboard boxes, and specialized leather storage containers.

If you choose a specialized leather storage container, make sure it’s made of breathable material and is free of any chemicals that could damage the leather.

These types of containers often come with specific instructions for use and maintenance, so be sure to follow them carefully.

If you opt for a plastic bin or cardboard box, make sure it’s clean and dry before storing your jacket.

You may also want to line the container with acid-free tissue paper or a clean cotton sheet to help protect the jacket from dust and to allow for air circulation.

It’s important to avoid using plastic bags or wrapping the jacket in plastic, as this can trap moisture and cause the leather to sweat, potentially leading to mold or mildew growth. Use a desiccant packet or other moisture-absorbing material.

5. Cotton sheet

If you don’t have a garment bag or other specialized storage container, you can use a cotton sheet.

All you need to do is fold the jacket neatly and place it on a clean dry cotton sheet. Fold the sheet over the jacket and tuck in the sides to create a loose breathable covering.

The cotton sheet will help to protect your jacket from dust and light while still allowing air to circulate and prevent moisture buildup.

Once the jacket is folded together with the sheet, you can place the jacket in a closet or other storage space but keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.

One important thing to keep in mind when using a cotton sheet for leather jacket storage is to ensure that the jacket is clean and dry before you pack it away.

Any dirt or moisture left on the jacket can cause damage over time, so it’s best to clean it thoroughly and allow it to air dry before storage.

Additionally, be sure to check on the jacket periodically during storage to ensure that it remains clean and free of damage.

Alternative storage methods for leather jackets (Creative ideas)

Other creative ways of hanging leather jackets include;

• Pegboard/Open shelving

A pegboard is a versatile and customizable option for storing items, especially in the garage but it can be used for other storage purposes.

To hang your leather jackets, install the pegboard on a wall and use hooks or hangers to hang your jackets.

This option allows you to easily access your jackets and can also be a stylish addition to a room.

If you’re handy with tools, you can even customize it by painting or staining it to match your decor or adding shelves for additional storage.

Additionally, you can use the pegboard for hanging hats, scarves, or bags.

• Ladder

A ladder can be repurposed as a unique and visually appealing storage solution for your leather jackets.

Simply lean the ladder against a wall and hang your jackets over the rungs.

This option works well for those with limited storage space, and it can also add an interesting design element to your room.

• Vintage trunk/ Cedar chest

A vintage trunk is a unique and charming option for storing leather jackets. Simply store your jackets inside the trunk, and it can also be used as a stylish piece of decor.

Additionally, a vintage trunk can provide extra protection from environmental factors such as light and dust. You can even use the trunk as a seating option or as a coffee table in your living room.

If you’re worried about potential moisture damage, you can add a layer of protective fabric to the inside of the trunk before storing your jackets.

A vintage cedar chest would be even better since cedar wood has natural insect-repelling properties, which can help protect your jackets from damage caused by moths and other insects.

This storage option is perfect for those who love a touch of nostalgia and want to add a vintage feel to their home.

Additional storage tips for leather jackets 

• How to store leather jackets with fur trim

If your leather jacket has fur trim, it requires some extra care when it comes to storing it. The fur on the jacket can easily become flattened or damaged if not stored properly.

Thus, avoiding crushing or flattening the fur trim is essential when storing a leather jacket with fur.

The fur can lose its volume and fluffiness if it’s stored in a tight, compressed space. It’s important to give the jacket enough room to breathe and allow the fur to maintain its natural shape.

Additionally, avoid storing heavy items on top of the jacket as this can also crush the fur trim.

By giving your leather jacket with fur trim enough space and proper support during storage; you can help ensure that it stays in great condition for years to come.

• How to store multiple leather jackets in the same place

The best way to store multiple leather coats in the same place is by using hanging.

You can use a sturdy hanger or several hangers to hang multiple jackets in a closet or on a garment rack. Be sure to give each jacket enough space and avoid overcrowding, which can cause wrinkles and creases.

If you’re storing jackets with varying lengths, try to group them by length to make the most efficient use of your hanging space.

Additionally, you can use S-shaped hooks to hang multiple jackets on a single hanger, which can help save space and keep your jackets organized.

Also, you can store several jackets in a storage container but make sure to place a protective layer between each jacket to prevent them from rubbing against each other which can cause sticking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, storing leather jackets may seem like a simple task, but it’s essential to keep in mind the different methods and techniques to ensure that they remain in excellent condition.

Whether you prefer to hang, fold, or use alternative methods such as cedar chests, there are a variety of ways to store your jackets effectively.

However, beyond the practical considerations, a leather jacket is not just a piece of clothing – it’s a statement of personal style and attitude. When you store your jacket, you’re not just putting it away; you’re honoring it, preserving it, and respecting it.

So, the next time you store your leather jacket, take a moment to reflect on the journey it’s been on, and the memories it holds. By doing so, you’ll not only keep your jackets in top condition, but you’ll also preserve the unique stories they represent for years to come.