Care & Maintenance
Care & Maintenance
“A well-cared-for leather jacket lasts a lifetime. Here’s how.”
Your Jacket Gets Better
With The Right Care.
Real leather is a natural material that responds to how you treat it. With proper care, your NSM jacket will develop a beautiful patina — a rich, personal character that only comes with time and wear. Neglect it, and it may dry out or crack. Treat it well, and it becomes a piece you’ll wear for decades.
Simple Habits.
Lasting Results.
Hang It Properly
Always hang your jacket on a wide, padded hanger to maintain its shoulder shape. Never fold or compress it for extended periods.
Keep It Dry
If your jacket gets wet, allow it to dry naturally at room temperature. Never use direct heat sources like radiators or hair dryers — they will dry out and crack the leather.
Wipe Clean
For minor marks or dirt, use a soft, slightly damp cloth and gently wipe the surface. Always test on a hidden area first.
Condition Regularly
Apply a quality leather conditioner every 3–6 months to keep the leather supple and prevent drying. Use a product specifically designed for the leather type (lambskin, cowhide, or suede).
Store Correctly
When not in use, store your jacket in a cool, dry, well-ventilated space. Use a breathable dust bag — never a plastic cover, as it traps moisture.
“The best thing you can do for your leather jacket is wear it. Real leather thrives with use — it softens, molds to your shape, and becomes uniquely yours.”
— NSM JacketsThe Things That
Damage Leather.
Avoid direct sunlight — prolonged UV exposure fades and dries out leather.
Never machine wash — washing machines will ruin the leather. Dry clean only if necessary, using a leather specialist.
Keep away from heat — radiators, fires, and direct sunlight will crack and shrink leather irreversibly.
Avoid harsh chemicals — solvents, alcohol-based sprays, and general household cleaners will strip the leather’s natural oils and finish.
Suede Care
Use a suede brush to remove surface dirt and restore the nap. Use a suede protector spray before first wear and reapply periodically. Keep suede away from water — it stains more easily than smooth leather.
Shearling Care
Shake out shearling jackets regularly to fluff the wool. Brush lightly with a soft bristle brush. If wet, allow to dry naturally — never wring or compress shearling. Professional cleaning recommended annually.
Leather Jacket Care & Maintenance
A little regular care keeps a genuine leather jacket looking good for years: avoid prolonged sun and heavy rain, condition every few months, and store it properly when not in use.
Different materials need slightly different treatment. Suede benefits from a suede brush and avoiding water altogether, while shearling should be spot cleaned and left to professional cleaners for anything deeper. Smooth leather is the most forgiving and holds up well with an occasional leather conditioner.
For a more detailed, material-by-material breakdown, see our Leather Care Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Every few months for regular wear, or sooner if the leather starts to look dry or dull.
Light rain is generally fine, but we recommend avoiding heavy or prolonged rain, especially for suede and shearling pieces.
On a padded or wide hanger, away from direct sunlight, rather than folded in a drawer or bag.
No, machine washing can damage genuine leather, suede, and shearling. Spot clean where possible and use professional leather cleaning for anything deeper.
You can return or exchange within 30 days of delivery if the jacket is unworn with tags and packaging intact. See Return & Exchange for details.