How to Store Leather Bomber Jackets (Without Damaging Them)

Leather bomber jackets are fashionable, strong, and made to last. But if you don't take care of them, they can break, fade, or even get moldy. Knowing how to store your leather bomber jacket is important if you want it to look beautiful for a long time. This article will show you how to do each step to store leather bombers.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Skin is leather. It dries out if it isn't cared for and covered, just like ours. Leather can lose its natural oils if it is kept or left in the wrong place. This makes things crack and peel. If you stuff a jacket into a small place or fold it up for months, it may lose its shape or have deep wrinkles that won't go away. 
The Leather Research Laboratory at the University of Cincinnati says that bad storage can make leather items last up to 50% less time. So, it's not just nice to have good storage; it's vital.

 Clean Your Jacket Before Storing

You wouldn't put filthy dishes in the cupboard. The same thing goes for your leather bomber jacket. Always clean it before you put it away. To get rid of dust or grime on the surface, start by wiping it down with a soft, damp cloth. After that, use a cleaning product intended for leather jackets. After cleaning it, use a leather conditioner to keep the moisture in.
This helps keep leather supple and protects it. Mold can grow on dirty leather, and bugs can find it in dark places. Don't put your jacket away when it's damp or sweaty. Mold can grow on wet materials, which can destroy them.

 
Use the Right Hanger

It is not a good idea to fold a leather bomber jacket. Leather wrinkles easily, and those wrinkles can last forever. Instead, put your jacket on a strong hanger. Pick a wide wooden or padded hanger that fits the curve of your shoulders. This keeps the jacket in shape and stops dents in the shoulders.
Don't use wire hangers. They are too thin and can put pressure on the leather. A small investment in the right hanger will help keep your jacket's shape.

Pick the Best Storage Location

Not every storage area is the same. Leather needs a cool, dry environment where air can flow. The sun is bad. It makes leather fade and dry out. As long as they aren't too hot or damp, closets are wonderful.
Don't keep your leather bomber jacket in the attic or basement. The humidity or temperature changes in these places are often very high. This could cause mold or cracks. If you can, put your jacket in a bedroom closet where the weather is always the same.

Cover It – But Don’t Trap Moisture

Your leather jacket needs to get some air. Don't ever put a plastic bag or dry cleaning cover over it. These hold moisture and can cause mold to grow. Instead, use a cotton or muslin clothing bag that lets air through. These materials let air in yet keep dust out.
An old pillowcase will suffice if you don't have a clothes bag. You have a free, ventilated cover if you cut a small hole at the top for the hanger.

Storing for the Long Term

If you just wear your bomber jacket in the winter, you should store it for a long time. Take it out every few months and let it air out for an hour. This keeps it fresh and stops it from smelling musty. To keep leather from drying out, you should apply leather conditioner every three to six months.
Cedar blocks in your closet can help keep moths away and soak up moisture. Don't use mothballs; they smell bad and have chemicals that are bad for leather.
The American Leather Chemists Association did a study that found that leather that wasn't treated and was kept in a closed environment for more than six months lost 15% more moisture than leather that was treated. That is a clear incentive to keep the moisture levels up.

Quick Do’s and Don’ts

Let's go over what works and what doesn't. Instead of simply a list, here's a short overview.
Before you put your jacket away, make sure it's clean. It's tougher to get rid of dirt later. Do use a wide hanger to keep it in shape. Never put your jacket near heaters or windows; always keep it in a dry, dark spot. Don't fold your coat. Don't cover it with plastic. And don't forget to look at it every few months. A little care can go a long way.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Jacket Last

A leather bomber jacket is more than just a style. It's an investment for the long haul. If you store it correctly, it will look new, sturdy, and attractive for years. Cleaning a leather jacket, conditioning, and picking the appropriate hanger are all easy things that can make a big difference. 
Picture your jacket as a vintage automobile. When you're not using it, it needs to be looked after, maintained, and cared for. It will be nice to you every time you wear it if you take care of it.
So, remember to clean it, hang it up right, store it safely, and check it often the next time you put it away. Your future self (and your closet) will be grateful.