How to Store Your Leather Jacket in Off-Season

Investing in a good-quality leather jacket is worth a good amount of money, and properly storing it is essential to keep it safe and retain its shape, texture, and longevity. Whether you own a classic leather biker jacket, an embroidered varsity jacket, or a classic blue and gold one, storing these items during the off-season will keep them in perfect condition. If you want your leather to maintain its natural condition, adhere to the proper storage steps to keep it looking as good as new.

Clean Your Jacket Before Storage

Before storing away your leather jacket for the time being, make sure it’s clean. If there is any dirt, sweat, or stains left on the leather, it will become permanent over time. Wipe surface dust off with a damp cloth, and if necessary, apply a leather cleaner for your jacket type. Gently around the stitched areas when embroidering a varsity jacket to keep it from fraying. Do not store the coat with any moisture buildup — let it dry entirely beforehand.

Condition the Leather to Prevent Drying

It dries out the leather when not used for several months. Before storage, a leather conditioner prevents cracks and keeps the leather soft. It is advisable to apply a high-quality leather conditioner. Apply a little bit and spread it out with a soft cloth, targeting the spots more likely to crease in the elbow and shoulder areas. If you’re storing a blue and gold varsity jacket made of leather and fabric, avoid over-conditioning the parts made of nonleather.

Select the apt Hanger for Storage.

Leather jackets should never be folded for long-term storage, as this will create deep creases that are very difficult to get out. Instead, use a strong, padded hanger that lets the shoulders support the jacket. The leather gets stretched or loses shape as it is stretched between a flimsy hanger. A wide-shouldered hanger keeps the varsity jackets with heavier structures from buckling.

Store in a Breathable Garment Bag

Be sparing with the plastic covers or vacuum seal bags; leather needs air flow to stay fresh. Instead, wear a breathable garment bag, preferably made of cotton, to protect your jacket from dust while it is open for airflow. If you don’t have a garment bag, a clean cotton sheet draped over the hanger will also do in a pinch. This is an excellent method to keep your embroidery stitches from getting crap on them and getting ruined by dust, and if they are also on a varsity jacket with good embroidery stitching, this will save your stitches.

Keep It in a Cool, Dry Place

Leather is damaged by humidity and temperature fluctuations. Keep your jacket cool, dry, out of direct sunlight, and away from heat sources. The closet should have good airflow. Do not allow basements or attics to be damp if excess moisture can cause mold or mildew. For fetid concerns, silica gel pouches may be positioned in the storage area to avoid excess humidity.

Check on Your Jacket Periodically

But even if you store your leather jacket (still packed in the original box if you can trace it down), it needs occasional care. Take it out every few months, inspect for any dryness or mildew signs, and leave it to air for a few hours. If you own a blue and gold varsity jacket with leather sleeves, check the fabric section to ensure the dust has not made its way into it.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Leather Jacket in Perfect Shape

Off-season storage will make your leather jacket last years without looking pale. It could be a rugged biker jacket or an embroidered varsity one; either way, spend some time cleaning, conditioning, and storing it so you’re ready to wear it when the season changes. Maintaining the durability and timeless quality of your favorite leather item takes very little care.