Leather Coat Wrinkle Removal: Easy And Effective Methods

Leather is a durable and stylish material, but it can be prone to wrinkling if not stored properly or if used frequently. Wrinkles can be removed from leather, but it is important to be gentle to avoid damaging the material. There are several methods to remove wrinkles from leather, including steaming, ironing, and hanging.

Characteristics of removing wrinkles from a leather coat

Using steam from a shower

First, you will need to place your coat on a hanger. It is important to use a durable hanger that can support the weight of the coat, as a cheap hanger can cause the coat to wrinkle further. A wooden coat hanger with moulded shoulders is ideal.

Next, turn on your shower and let the water get fairly hot. It is important to let the water heat up before you start the shower, to ensure that the steam is effective in removing the wrinkles.

Once the water is hot, find a spot in your bathroom where the coat can hang without getting wet. The back of the door is a good option, as it usually has hooks, and is far enough away from the showerhead to prevent the coat from getting damp. If your bathroom doesn't have hooks, try hanging the coat from the lip of the sink.

Let the hot shower run for at least 15 minutes, allowing the steam to build up in the room and smooth out the wrinkles in the coat.

After the shower, wear the coat for the day. This will help the jacket to settle to your body and prevent further wrinkles from forming.

Using a fabric steamer

Step 1: Prepare the Leather Coat

Before steaming, make sure to clean your leather coat with a mild leather cleaner or a mixture of water and gentle soap. Remove any stains or dirt and allow the leather to dry completely. Place the coat on a sturdy hanger, preferably one with wide shoulders to prevent creases on the shoulder line.

Step 2: Set Up the Steamer

Carefully read the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your fabric steamer. Adjust the steamer to a medium-low setting and allow it to heat up completely before starting the steaming process. Testing the steamer away from the leather is also recommended to ensure that the steam is not too cold, as this can cause condensation and potentially damage the leather.

Step 3: Steam the Leather Coat

Hang the leather coat vertically, either on a hanger or the rack of your standing steamer. Ensure that the coat is not too close to the water source to avoid getting it wet. Hold the steamer about four inches away from the coat and apply an even coat of steam over the wrinkled areas. Treat both the inside and outside of the wrinkled areas if possible. Move the steamer in the same way you would if you were ironing the coat.

Step 4: Remove Excess Moisture

If moisture starts to form on the leather due to the steam, use a clean, dry cloth to blot off the excess moisture. Leather is not designed to handle large amounts of water, so it is important to remove any condensation that forms during the steaming process.

Step 5: Pull and Smooth the Fabric

If the wrinkles don't relax on their own after steaming, gently pull the fabric to help relax and smooth them further. Be careful not to pull for more than five seconds at a time and always allow the fabric to hang for a few seconds between pulls. This step is especially important for more stubborn wrinkles.

Step 6: Allow the Coat to Cool and Dry

Once you have finished steaming and smoothing the coat, lay it down on a flat surface and let it cool and dry completely before wearing or storing it. This will help set the smooth leather and prevent re-wrinkling.

Ironing with a cloth barrier

Ironing your leather coat is a great way to remove wrinkles, but it is important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the material.

Firstly, set your iron to its lowest setting. Leather is not supposed to be ironed in a conventional manner, as the process can damage it. If your iron has a steam function, make sure to empty the steam well before you start to prevent spillage and water damage.

Next, place a clean and dry 100% cotton cloth, such as a towel, over the leather to act as a barrier. The cloth needs to be dry as any moisture can cause water damage to the leather.

Now, you can begin ironing. Work quickly and with a light hand, running the iron over the cloth without putting it directly on the leather. Do not hold the iron in one place or move it slowly, even over stubborn creases, as this may cause the leather to burn and could leave permanent damage. Move the cloth barrier as you move the iron to avoid overheating any one area.

Once you have finished ironing, hang your coat up immediately if you are not going to wear it straight away.

Using a blow dryer

Step 1: Smooth Out the Wrinkles

First, lay your leather coat on a flat surface and smooth out any creases with your hands. This will help you identify the areas that need the most attention.

Step 2: Prepare the Blow Dryer

Set your blow dryer to its lowest setting. If you're using a hair dryer, turn it to its hottest and strongest setting. It's important to use the lowest heat setting possible on leather to avoid causing any damage.

Step 3: Apply Heat to the Wrinkled Areas

Hold the blow dryer 3 to 6 inches away from the wrinkled areas. Constantly move the dryer around so that the hot air is not blowing on a single spot for too long. This will help prevent scorching or burning the leather.

Step 4: Check for Flexibility

Check the leather to see if the crease has become flexible and if it feels warm. If the crease is still stubborn, you can try increasing the heat on the blow dryer, but be sure to hold it slightly further away from the leather.

Step 5: Repeat if Necessary

If the wrinkles are still present, you can try a second pass with the blow dryer. This time, try it in a steamy room, as the combination of steam and heat can be more effective in smoothing out the wrinkles.

Step 6: Condition the Leather

Once you're satisfied with the smoothness of the leather, finish off by conditioning the leather. Apply a light coat of premium leather conditioner and work it into the surface. This will help protect the leather and may prevent or minimise future wrinkles.

Remember to always treat your leather coat with care and avoid excessive heat or direct contact with water.

Storing leather coats properly

Cleaning and Conditioning:

Before storing your leather coat for an extended period, it is important to clean it with mild soap and water. Avoid using too much water, as it can damage the leather. Gently wipe the coat with a damp cloth, ensuring all parts are cleaned evenly. You can also treat minor stains with lukewarm water and a small amount of detergent. For bigger stains, consider taking the coat to a professional cleaner.

After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner sparingly with a cotton swab to keep the material soft and moisturized. However, be careful not to over-condition the leather, as this can damage the fabric.

Stuffing and Wrapping:

To protect the coat from dirt and dust, stuff the sleeves and pockets with acid-free paper. Wrapping the coat in a breathable fabric, such as an old white bed sheet or a cloth garment bag, is also recommended. Avoid using plastic, as leather needs to breathe, and plastic can cause the fabric to dry out.

Hangers and Storage Containers:

When hanging your leather coat, use a sturdy, wide hanger that can properly support the shoulders of the coat. Wooden or padded hangers are ideal, as they are strong enough to hold the weight of the coat. Avoid thin, wire, or plastic hangers, as they are too light for leather coats.

If you prefer to store your coat in a container, choose a non-plastic option like a wooden trunk or a suitcase. Place the coat flat inside, ensuring it doesn't crease. For wooden trunks, leave a gap between the lid and base to allow airflow. Keep the suitcase unzipped for the same reason.

Storage Environment:

Leather is sensitive to heat and humidity. Store your leather coat in a cool, dry area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources like light bulbs. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration. Aim for a relative humidity of around 40% to 50%, as higher humidity can lead to mildew. If the climate is humid, consider using a dehumidifier to regulate moisture levels.

Additionally, keep the coat away from other dyed clothing to prevent color transfer.

Maintenance:

Even when stored properly, leather coats benefit from occasional maintenance. Take the coat out of storage every few weeks and let it sit in a well-ventilated area for a few hours. This practice will extend the life of the coat and prevent it from deteriorating.

Frequently asked questions