How to Soften a Leather Coat?

A leather coat is not just an outfit; it's an investment that exudes style and durability. However, even the finest quality leather can sometimes feel stiff or uncomfortable. Knowing how to soften a leather coat properly is essential, whether it's a new purchase or an old favorite needing revival. In this blog post by FinestLeathers, we'll discuss the proven methods and tips to restore that supple, luxurious feel to your treasured leather coat!

Understanding Leather Types

However, before knowing “how to soften a leather coat," you must determine what kind of leather you’re working on.” When caring for different types of leather, the techniques used vary; hence, it is advisable not to apply the same method since it will harm the fabric’s quality. The best quality, full-grain leather originates from the upper part of the skin. Top-grain is a type in which the top skin is cut away to eliminate flaws or discolorations. By sanding the inside of the hide, we create suede leather that is soft and fuzzy. These leathers require different soaking methods without lowering the quality grade. Hence, you must familiarize yourself with your garment before the softening exercise.

How to Soften Leather Coat?

Here are four methods for “how to soften a leather coat”!

1. Conditioning with Natural Oils

Using natural oils when conditioning an overcoat helps keep it soft as well as its good value. Regarding this, natural oils like coconut oil and almond oil, among others, can significantly help moisturize and rejuvenate this fabric. Here's an insight into how to effectively condition your garments using natural oils:

• Choose the Right Oil: Go for pure, natural oils without adulteration and artificial fragrance. Well, coconut oil, well-known for its moisturizing characteristics, works excellently. These include almond and olive oil, efficient and affordable substitutes.
• Prepare the Leather: Ensure the jacket is cleaned of dust or dirt before applying oil. Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean the surface and remove all debris.
• Application Process: Use a clean, soft cloth or sponge with little oil. Commence with light massaging oil movements on the stiff or arid spots. Avoid excessive saturation uniformly.
• Allow Absorption: Let the coating dry after applying oil and let it absorb overnight. This allows the fabric to absorb as much oil as possible before restoring its softness.
• Buffing and Polishing: Use a soft towel to rub off the oil onto the skin lightly. It also ensures that all the excess oil is removed for a smooth, polished end product.

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2. Leather Conditioners

Leather conditioners are specifically formulated products designed to restore moisture, flexibility, and softness to leather goods, including coats. These conditioners contain ingredients that penetrate the fibers, replenishing essential oils and nutrients that may have been lost over time. Here’s how to use leather conditioners effectively to soften and rejuvenate your coat:

• Selecting the Right Leather Conditioner: Choose a high-quality conditioner suitable for the type your coat is made from. Different types require specific formulations. For instance, a conditioner for smooth, full-grain might differ from one designed for suede or nubuck.
• Application Process: Take a soft, clean cloth or sponge and apply a small amount of the conditioner onto it. Gently rub the conditioner onto the garment in circular motions, ensuring an even application. Focus on areas that are particularly dry or stiff.
• Allow Absorption: Let the conditioner penetrate the fabric for the recommended time specified by the product instructions. This typically ranges from a few minutes to several hours, allowing it to absorb the conditioner and regain suppleness.
• Buffing and Polishing: Using a fresh, dry cloth to buff the fabric gently after absorption. This helps remove excess conditioner and gives the coat a smooth, polished finish.

3. Vinegar Solution

Softening a leather coat with vinegar solution is an all-natural way to do the job. Vinegar can soften stiffer fabric without compromising its integrity due to its acidic properties. 

• Prepare Vinegar Solution: Combine equal portions of white vinegar and water in a bowl or other suitable container - mixing one glass each is sufficient; adjust proportions depending on your cat's coat size or where pain arises.
• Application Process: Dampen a clean, soft cloth or sponge with the vinegar solution. Gently rub the dampened cloth onto the garment in circular motions, focusing on stiff or dry areas. You can also use a spray bottle to apply the solution evenly over the coat.
• Allow Absorption: Let the vinegar solution sit on the fabric for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the fibers. Avoid saturating excessively; a light application is sufficient.
• Blot and Dry: After applying the vinegar solution, use a dry cloth to blot the fabric gently. This helps remove any excess moisture and vinegar from the surface. Allow the coat to air dry naturally.

4. Using a Leather Softening Kit

Utilizing a leather softening kit is a convenient and effective way to soften your overcoat. These kits typically contain specialized products explicitly formulated for softening and rejuvenating leather. Here's how to use a leather softening kit to soften your garments:

• Read Instructions: Carefully read the instructions provided with the leather softening kit. Different kits might have specific guidelines for application and usage.
• Application Process: Following the instructions provided in the kit, apply the cleaner to the coat using the included cloth or sponge. Gently rub the cleaner in circular motions, focusing on dirty or stiff areas.
• Rinse or Wipe Off: Some kits may require rinsing the leather after using the cleaner. Others recommend wiping off excess cleaner with a clean, damp cloth. Follow the kit's instructions for this step.
• Apply the Leather Conditioner: Once the fabric is clean and dry, use the provided cloth or sponge to apply the conditioner from the kit. Apply the conditioner evenly over the entire coat, focusing more on stiff or dry areas.
• Allow Absorption: Let the conditioner absorb into the fabric according to the kit's instructions. This often involves allowing the conditioner to sit for a specified time to penetrate the fibers and restore moisture.
• Buff and Finish: After the absorption time, use a clean, dry cloth to buff the coat gently. This helps remove any excess conditioner and gives it a polished finish.

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Precautions and Tips

• Always perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area before applying any product to the coat.
• Avoid excessive heat or direct sunlight, which can cause the leather to dry out and crack.
• Regularly condition your leather coat to maintain its suppleness and extend its lifespan.

Read more: How to store Leather Coats?