How to Store a Leather Jacket Long Term

Why Leather Needs Special Care in Storage

Leather is a natural material that needs to breathe, maintain its shape, and stay conditioned to avoid cracking and drying out. Poor storage — folded in a bin, crushed under other clothes, or sealed in plastic — can permanently damage a leather jacket. The good news is that proper storage is simple once you know what to avoid.

Step 1: Clean and Condition Before Storing

Before putting a leather jacket away for the season, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt and oils. Then apply a leather conditioner to keep the material supple during storage. Dry leather stored for months without conditioning is prone to cracking.

Step 2: Hang, Don't Fold

Never fold a leather jacket for long-term storage — fold lines can become permanent creases. Always hang leather jackets on a wide, sturdy hanger that supports the shoulders. Avoid wire hangers, which can distort the shoulder shape over time.

Step 3: Use a Breathable Garment Bag

Leather needs airflow — storing it in a plastic bag or airtight container traps moisture and can cause mildew or a musty smell. Use a breathable garment bag to protect against dust while allowing air circulation. Avoid plastic dry-cleaning bags for the same reason.

Step 4: Store in the Right Environment

The ideal storage environment for leather is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight. UV light fades and dries out leather over time. Avoid:

• Attics (temperature extremes)
• Basements (humidity)
• Direct sunlight or near heat sources

A spare wardrobe or the back of a main wardrobe works well.

Step 5: Add Cedar for Freshness

Add cedar blocks near stored leather to absorb moisture and keep the storage area fresh. Cedar also deters moths, which can damage leather linings and any fabric elements of the jacket.

What to Avoid

• Plastic bags or airtight containers — trap moisture and cause mildew.
• Folding — creates permanent creases.
• Wire hangers — distort shoulder shape.
• Direct sunlight — fades and dries out leather.
• Storing dirty — oils and residue degrade leather over time.

Quick Tips

• Check on stored leather jackets every few months — re-condition if the surface feels dry.
• If the jacket develops a musty smell, air it out in a well-ventilated area before re-storing.
• For very valuable leather jackets, consider professional leather storage or conditioning services.

Final Thoughts

A leather jacket stored correctly will last decades. The key rules: hang (never fold), use a breathable garment bag, condition before storing, and keep it in a cool dry place away from light. Five minutes of preparation before storing will protect a jacket that may have cost hundreds of dollars.