
A leather skirt is one of the most cherished wardrobe staples. It’s a versatile piece of clothing that you can wear in the summer for style purposes and even in the winter with the right ensemble pieces. This very reason makes it a smart investment. However, one wrong cleaning attempt and all your money can go to vain. So knowing how to wash a leather skirt will save you from any regret.
Let’s put it this way: a leather skirt is a part of your lifestyle that demands attention. No water! No heat! No pressure techniques! Just some delicate cleaning tricks to make it last longer. And once you understand how it’s correctly done, you’re going to enjoy this masterpiece for years.
Now, let’s dive in and find out the best way to clean a leather skirt.
leather comes from different sources, and each reacts to cleaning according to its that. Most common types you’ll find are sheepskin, lambskin, cowhide, and even suede.
Steps to Clean a Leather Skirt

Below are some simple steps on how to clean a leather skirt without running it. Make sure to follow them in an orderly manner. First up:
Dust off Before Cleaning
This step is simple but quite important. So, before opting for any products, ensure to clean any dust or dirt that’s sitting on the surface. You can use a leather brush or a soft cloth. This way, when you’re cleaning it with a moistened object, it won’t have any debris scratches.
Before going further, always test your product in an inconspicuous spot like the hem of the skirt. If it doesn’t fade or darken or affect the texture, go ahead.
Spot Clean Gently
Rule 1 here is never to soak the leather wet, as it doesn’t react well to water. Why? Moisture removes the natural oil on the surface, leading to drying and cracking.
Now, gently dampen a soft cloth in water. If you don’t have a leather cleaner, add a drop of mild soap. Now, clean the dirt in a circular motion. Even if you have stubborn stains, it’s best to use gentle hands as rubbing hard can ruin the texture and may spread it.
If the spot needs another round, repeat the steps instead of overdoing it all at once.
Air It Out
If you have a structured skirt, stuff it with clean cloth till it dries so it doesn’t lose its shape. This will also keep the silhouette fresh and wrinkle-free.
Condition is a Must
Now that your skirt is dry, it’s time for some moisturizer. Choose a better quality leather conditioner for your item. Apply a small amount using a soft cloth to keep the texture soft and prevent dryness.
Use it as instructed on the label, and again, test on a hidden spot first.
If your leather skirt smells funny, turn it inside out and sprinkle baking soda. It will absorb the odor. Make sure to leave it overnight and brush off the residue in the morning.
Importance of Storage
After mastering how to clean a leather skirt, storing it the right way is crucial. Always hang your skirt on a padded, wide hanger with clips to avoid shoulder bumps. Don’t throw it in with other clothes.
Other key points:
- When storing, wrap it in a breathable bag.
- Ensure that where you store it doesn’t have sharp objects.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade its color.
Cleaning a Faux Leather Skirt
Even with faux, it’s smart to know how to clean a leather skirt the right way. The steps are somewhat the same here. All you need to do is:
- Wipe the skirt with a damp, soft cloth to keep it clean.
- Prepare a homemade water and mild soap solution for stubborn stains.
- Never scrub hard as it can peel off.
- Store it somewhere cool and away from sunlight or heat.
- Use leather conditioner specially made for faux products for flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can wipe off the surface dust after each wear, so it doesn’t build up. However, you can clean it after a few wears in case of sweat, stain, or visible dullness.
In case your leather skirt gets wet in the rain, blot the excess moisture out with a dry cloth and let it dry naturally. Once it dries, apply leather conditioner to keep it soft and supple.
Not at all. Laundry detergents carry harsh chemicals and can strip leather of its natural oils. Always use a mild soap or a cleaner made for leather.



