How to Remove Wrinkles from Leather Jacket

Using the steam treatment could be the answer if you want to know how to remove wrinkles from leather jackets. This method is gentle, yet it can be very effective if done properly. However, make sure to follow all the steps given below to get the best results.

• First, you have to prepare your jacket for steaming. For that, you have to hang it on a strong, padded hanger so that the jacket doesn’t lose shape or develop more creases. Make sure that the room or space where you’ve hung the jacket is well-ventilated; otherwise, your jacket can absorb excessive moisture.
• Use a steam iron or steamer, set it to a low temperature, and start steaming the jacket. Make sure not to use a high temperature, as too much heat can damage your jacket.
• While applying steam, make sure not to take the steamer too close to the jacket. Ensure that there is always an eight-to-ten-inch gap between the jacket and the steamer. Also, avoid steaming one spot for too long. 
• Make sure to move the steamer across the spots where you see wrinkles so that the leather can absorb moisture and soften up.
• Once you are done with steaming your leather jacket, use your hands to smooth out the creases. Make sure you do this while the jacket is still warm. If the wrinkles are too deep, repeat the process. However, make sure not to expose your jacket to too much moisture,as it can do more damage than good.

Ironing Method

Another method to smooth out the wrinkles on your leather jacket is through ironing it. Although it is a viable method, you have to be super careful so as not to burn and permanently damage your jacket. If you want to opt for this method, consider the following steps.

• Lay your jacket on a flat surface, making sure that the surface is heat resistant. For instance, you can use an ironing board, but it should be clean and completely dust-free.
• With this method, it is crucial to apply a protective shield on your jacket so as not to burn it. Consider placing a thin towel or a cotton cloth over the wrinkled spots and iron over it. In this way, you will protect your jacket from direct heat.
• Always make sure to set the temperature of your iron to the lowest. At the same time, make sure that you have turned off the steaming function of your iron, if there is one. Using heat and moisture together will damage your jacket.
• Gently press the iron over the cloth or towel to smooth out the wrinkled areas. However, do not drag the iron over the jacket. Instead, use circular motions without applying too much pressure.
• Lastly, allow your leather jacket to cool naturally. Do not wear it immediately or fold it, as doing so would distort its shape.

Weight Method

If you are unsure about using the heat or steam method, another way to remove wrinkles from your leather jacket is to put some natural weight over it. This is a safe technique that can achieve the desired results, especially when it comes to vintage leather, which could be sensitive to heat. 

• Lay your jacket on a flat surface — such as a flatboard, table, or bed — ensuring there are no bumps or rough materials underneath the jacket. 
• Your jacket should be positioned properly so that there are no folds or bunching. The flatter it is, the better.
• Place some heavy objects over your jacket but double-check if the weight is evenly applied to all wrinkled areas. Weights you can use include flat boxes or thick books. However, avoid items that might have a sharp edge, as it could leave impressions on your jacket.
• This method requires some patience, so leave the jacket under heavy weight for at least a day or two.

Massaging With A Leather Conditioner

An excellent way to smooth out the wrinkles and creases on your leather jacket is to apply a leather conditioner on it. Leather conditioning helps maintain the suppleness and luster of leather by keeping it hydrated. If your leather jacket has minor wrinkles, this method can be very useful. Here’s how to do it.

• Use a high-quality leather conditioner, making sure it is free of chemicals. 
• Before you apply the conditioner, make sure the jacket is clean and dry, free of any dust particles or debris. 
• Take a small amount of leather conditioner and gently dab it onto the affected areas, either using your fingers or a soft cloth.
• Gently massage the conditioner into the leather jacket using circular motions. Make sure you evenly apply the conditioner. 
• Once the conditioner is absorbed into the jacket, leave it for several hours, ideally overnight.

Seeking Professional Help

If you have tried all the methods but you still see deep, stubborn wrinkles on your leather jacket, it’s time to seek professional help. Professional leather experts have the right know-how as well as specialized tools to remove the wrinkles from your jacket and restore its supple look. This is especially important if you are dealing with wrinkles and creases on a high-end jacket and are not sure whether the DIY methods would work. Even though hiring professional help will incur additional costs, it would be worth it as you would want to use your jacket for years. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when choosing a professional service.

• When selecting a leather specialist, make sure you have read online reviews about them and whether they deal with certain types of leather.
• Leather specialists use a variety of tools and methods, such as rejuvenation treatments, pressing equipment, and steam cabinets, to get rid of leather wrinkles and creases. Ask your specialist which professional method would be most suitable for your jacket, depending on its type.
• Ask the leather specialist to condition the entire jacket after removing the creases. In this way, you can restore the jacket’s sheen and suppleness.

• Try hanging your jacket in the bathroom. In this way, the steam from your hot shower can help relax the tough fibers of the jacket and smooth the wrinkles out. However, don’t let your jacket come in direct contact with water, as soaking the leather will destroy it.
• Always use a sturdy hanger to hang the jacket.
• Let the jacket hang in the bathroom for about 30 minutes so it can absorb the steam from the hot shower. Once done, use your hands to smooth out the wrinkles.

Exposing It To Indirect Sunlight

• Exposing your leather jacket to direct sunlight is strongly discouraged as it could destroy the material, but controlled sunlight can help remove some creases from it.
• If you want to try this method, place your jacket for 15 to 20 minutes in a well-ventilated location with indirect sunlight. 
• While your jacket is still warm, run your hands over the creased parts and smooth out the wrinkles. Make sure not to let your jacket be overexposed; otherwise, the leather will dry up or become discolored.

Letting Your Body Heat Do The Work

• According to leather experts, another way to soften the wrinkles on your leather jacket is to wear it and go on about your daily activities, as a combination of movements and body heat can ease out subtle creases.