HOW TO: CONDITION LEATHER - EASY DIY - Keeping my 15 Year old leather jacket from DRYING OUT

Summary

In this informative video, SN Deia shares her 16-year experience of reconditioning a leather jacket, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance to prevent drying and cracking. She demonstrates the step-by-step process using Lexol All-Purpose Deep Conditioner, highlighting key techniques such as cleaning, testing products, and applying conditioner one panel at a time. Deia stresses the need to focus on high-wear areas and the benefits of layering for even absorption. With practical tips for upkeep, she shows how to keep leather looking brand new, ensuring longevity and a smooth finish.

Takeaways

• 😀 Regular conditioning of leather jackets every eight months prevents dryness and cracking.
• 😀 A deep conditioner, like Lexol, is recommended for restoring the jacket's appearance.
• 😀 Always test new products on a hidden area to ensure they won't damage the leather.
• 😀 Cleaning the leather with a warm, damp microfiber towel helps remove dirt before conditioning.
• 😀 Focus on conditioning one panel at a time for even application and absorption.
• 😀 High-wear areas (underarms, elbows, piping) require extra attention and additional coats of conditioner.
• 😀 Avoid leaving conditioner on too long to prevent uneven darkening of the leather.
• 😀 Allow the jacket to dry completely on a hanger to maintain its shape and avoid creases.
• 😀 Monitor the jacket's appearance after drying, as it may lighten slightly.
• 😀 Consider professional cleaning for deep care, especially for older or heavily worn jackets.

Q & A

How often should you condition a leather jacket?

Every eight months or so, depending on wear and drying out.

What product does the speaker recommend for conditioning leather?

The Lexol all-purpose or all-leather deep conditioner.

What is the first step in the conditioning process?

Clean the leather with a warm, moistened microfiber towel.

Why is it important to test the conditioner on a hidden area first?

To ensure the product does not damage or discolor the leather.

What areas of the jacket require extra conditioning attention?

The underarm and elbow areas, as they flex a lot and show wear.

How does the conditioning process affect the color of the leather?

It darkens the leather initially, but it lightens slightly as it dries.

How should you apply the conditioner to avoid unevenness?

Work on one panel at a time and apply a consistent amount of product.

What should you do if an area of the jacket looks significantly drier?

Apply additional coats of conditioner to those problem areas.

What is the benefit of using a microfiber towel?

It helps apply the conditioner evenly without leaving a greasy residue.

How can you prevent creases when storing the jacket?

Hang the jacket with the hanger reversed to keep the front straight.