1: Introduction — Why Proper Care Matters
Protect Your Investment: Why Cleaning a Shearling Jacket the Right Way Matters
You finally found the one — a perfect shearling leather jacket that fits like a glove and makes you look like a million bucks. But owning this premium piece isn’t just about style — it’s about commitment.
Shearling leather is an investment. It's crafted from real sheepskin, combining a suede exterior with a soft, woolly interior. While its durability is impressive, this luxurious material is also sensitive to water, dirt, and improper storage. One careless mistake — like using the wrong cleaner or hanging it in a humid closet — can cause long-term damage.
So, what’s the solution?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining your shearling leather jacket — safely and effectively. From stain removal to long-term storage, we’re giving you the same tips professionals use, but in a way that’s doable right at home.
By the end, you’ll know how to keep your jacket looking fresh, feeling soft, and lasting for years.
2: Understanding Shearling Leather – What Makes It Unique?
What Is Shearling Leather? Here’s Why It Needs Special Care
Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to understand what makes shearling leather different from other types of leather or winter fabrics.
Shearling is made from real sheepskin, where the suede (outer side) and the wool (inner side) are left naturally attached. This creates a unique combination — a buttery-soft suede shell with a warm, plush wool lining. Unlike synthetic jackets, each shearling piece is naturally breathable, moisture-resistant, and offers incredible insulation, making it ideal for harsh winters.
However, this natural luxury comes with a catch:
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The suede outer layer is highly absorbent and easily stained by water, oil, and salt.
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The wool interior can trap odors and lose its fluffiness if not cleaned properly.
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Heat and humidity can dry out the leather or cause mildew if stored incorrectly.
Because of these qualities, shearling jackets require gentle, non-chemical cleaning methods, proper storage, and periodic conditioning to prevent cracks, odors, or matting.
If treated with care, a quality shearling jacket can last for decades — developing a beautiful patina over time.
Quick Tip Box:
Tip: Never confuse shearling with faux shearling or wool-lined synthetics — those may look similar, but they don’t need the same level of care. Always check your jacket’s care label before cleaning.
3: How Often Should You Clean a Shearling Jacket?
How Often Does a Shearling Jacket Really Need Cleaning?
When it comes to cleaning a shearling leather jacket, less is more. Unlike regular winter coats that can be thrown in the wash or dry-cleaned every season, shearling requires a more delicate approach.
General Cleaning Frequency:
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Light use (casual wear): Clean once or twice per season.
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Heavy use (daily wear, city grime exposure): Spot clean monthly; deep clean at the end of the season.
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After spills or stains: Clean immediately with proper tools to avoid permanent damage.
What "Cleaning" Really Means:
You don’t need to deep clean the entire jacket often. In most cases, a simple brush-off, spot cleaning, and airing out your jacket will be enough to maintain its look and feel. Over-cleaning or using harsh products can strip natural oils and damage both the suede and the wool.
Quick Tip Box:
Tip: After each wear, hang your jacket in a well-ventilated space to air it out naturally. Avoid sealed plastic garment bags — use breathable fabric covers instead.
4: Step-by-Step Guide to Clean a Shearling Jacket at Home
DIY Cleaning: How to Clean a Shearling Leather Jacket Safely at Home
With the right tools and a gentle approach, you can clean your shearling leather jacket at home — no professional help needed. Just follow these careful, step-by-step instructions to protect both the suede exterior and the wool interior.
What You’ll Need:
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Soft-bristle suede brush
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Clean white cloth or sponge
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Cornstarch or talcum powder
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White vinegar (for stubborn stains)
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Mild soap (baby shampoo or leather-specific cleaner)
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Lint-free towel
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Wide hanger for drying
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Optional: suede eraser, leather conditioner
Step 1: Shake and Brush Off Surface Dirt
Use a suede brush to gently remove surface dust, lint, and loose debris. Always brush in the direction of the suede nap to avoid damaging the texture.
Pro Tip: Never use a stiff or metal brush — it can scratch the suede.
Step 2: Spot Clean the Suede Exterior
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Dampen a clean white cloth with water and add a drop of mild soap.
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Gently dab the stained area — never scrub.
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For oil stains, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder, let it sit for a few hours, then brush off.
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For salt or grime, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, dab gently, then blot dry.
Note: Always test on a hidden area first.
Step 3: Clean the Wool Interior (If Needed)
If the wool lining smells or looks dirty:
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Use a damp sponge (not wet!) with mild soap.
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Gently blot the wool; avoid soaking it.
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Wipe with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap.
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Air dry naturally, away from heat or sunlight.
Step 4: Dry It Properly
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Never use a dryer or direct sunlight.
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Hang it on a wide, padded hanger in a well-ventilated area.
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Allow 24–48 hours to fully air dry.
Step 5: Restore the Texture
Once dry, lightly brush the suede again to bring back its soft texture. Use a suede eraser for any leftover marks or shiny spots.
Optional: Condition the Leather (If Needed)
If your jacket feels dry or stiff, apply a leather conditioner made for suede or sheepskin, sparingly. Avoid using standard oil-based products unless they are shearling-safe.
Quick Tip Box:
Never soak your shearling jacket. Water can shrink or warp the leather and cause the wool to mat. Always work in small areas and use minimal moisture.
5: How to Remove Specific Stains Safely (Oil, Mud, Salt & More)
Tough Stains? Here’s How to Remove Oil, Mud, and Salt from Shearling Jackets
Stains happen — whether it's road salt splashed on your jacket, coffee spilled on your sleeve, or an oily fingerprint you didn’t notice until later. The key is knowing how to treat each type of stain quickly and gently without damaging the delicate suede or wool.
Here’s how to handle the most common offenders:
1. Oil or Grease Stains
These are the trickiest, but not impossible to fix.
What to do:
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Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder directly onto the stain.
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Let it sit for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is better).
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Brush off gently using a suede brush.
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Repeat if needed — be patient.
Avoid using water; it can spread the oil further.
2. Salt Stains (From Snow or Roads)
Salt can cause white rings and stiff patches if left untreated.
What to do:
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Mix equal parts white vinegar and lukewarm water.
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Dampen a soft cloth and dab the stain gently.
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Blot with a dry towel and let it air dry.
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Brush the suede afterward to restore its nap.
3. Mud or Dirt
Let it dry fully before cleaning — never scrub wet mud.
What to do:
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Once dry, use a suede brush to flake off loose dirt.
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If the stain remains, dab lightly with soapy water and blot dry.
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Avoid saturating the fabric.
4. Coffee, Wine, or Other Liquid Stains
Act fast — the sooner you treat these, the better.
What to do:
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Blot up the liquid immediately with a dry cloth.
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Use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap to dab gently.
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Avoid scrubbing. Let it air dry, then brush lightly.
Pro Tips for All Stains:
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Never rub aggressively. Always blot or dab.
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Test all solutions on an inner seam first.
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Avoid colored cloths that could transfer dye.
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Air dry only — never use a hairdryer or radiator.
Quick Tip Box:
Stain won't budge? Contact a leather care specialist. It's worth the extra cost to save an expensive jacket from permanent damage.
6: Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Shearling Leather
Avoid Ruining Your Jacket: The Essential Dos and Don’ts of Shearling Care
Shearling jackets are durable, but they’re also incredibly sensitive to the wrong kind of care. Even well-meaning cleaning attempts can cause irreversible damage if you're not careful.
Follow these simple dos and don’ts to keep your shearling leather jacket looking fresh, soft, and stylish for years to come:
DOs:
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Do use a suede brush regularly to remove dust and restore the nap.
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Do spot clean gently using mild soap or vinegar solutions.
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Do blot stains — never rub.
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Do air out your jacket after each wear to prevent odor buildup.
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Do store it in a cool, dry place on a wide, padded hanger.
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Do condition it with leather-safe products if the suede feels dry.
DON’Ts:
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Don’t wash in a machine — ever. Water will ruin the suede and shrink the wool.
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Don’t use harsh cleaners, bleach, or ammonia.
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Don’t apply direct heat (like a hairdryer or heater) to dry it.
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Don’t hang it in plastic garment bags. Always use breathable fabric covers.
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Don’t over-clean. Less is more when it comes to leather.
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Don’t store it in damp areas like basements — this causes mildew.
Quick Tip Box:
Remember: Treat your shearling jacket like a luxury item — because it is. Gentle care now means decades of wear later.
7: How to Store Your Shearling Jacket in Off-Season (Without Ruining It)
How to Store a Shearling Jacket Properly: Off-Season Leather Care Tips
You’ve invested in a premium shearling leather jacket, so don’t let poor storage ruin it during the warmer months. Shearling needs breathable, stable conditions to retain its shape, texture, and luxurious feel. Whether you’re packing it away for spring or just rotating your wardrobe, follow these essential storage tips:
Step 1: Clean It First
Always spot clean and air out your jacket before putting it away. Dirt, oils, and unseen stains can set in over time and become harder to remove later.
Tip: Make sure the jacket is completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew.
Step 2: Choose the Right Hanger
Use a wide, padded hanger that supports the shoulders. Avoid wire or thin plastic hangers — they can distort the jacket's structure.
Step 3: Cover It with a Breathable Garment Bag
Skip the plastic. Use a cotton or canvas garment bag to protect the jacket from dust while still allowing airflow. Plastic traps moisture and can cause the leather to dry out or mildew.
Step 4: Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Avoid attics, basements, or any place with fluctuating temperatures and humidity. Opt for a dark, climate-controlled closet away from sunlight and heat vents.
Step 5: Avoid Compression
Don’t stack items on top of your jacket or squeeze it into a packed closet. It needs space to hang freely without creasing or crushing the wool lining.
Quick Tip Box:
Add a natural moth repellent (like cedar chips or lavender sachets) to keep insects away — but never place them directly on the jacket.
8: When to Seek Professional Help
Know When to Call the Pros: When Your Shearling Jacket Needs Expert Care
While home cleaning is effective for light stains and general maintenance, some situations require a skilled hand. Knowing when to stop and seek professional cleaning can save your jacket from irreversible damage.
If you spot any of the following, it’s best to hand it over to a leather specialist:
1. Large or Deep-Set Stains
If you’ve tried gentle methods and the stain won’t budge — especially oil, ink, or wine — a professional can safely treat it with industry-grade products.
2. Water Damage or Warping
Water can cause shrinkage, staining, and loss of shape. If your jacket got soaked or you’ve noticed changes in the fit or texture, don’t risk DIY fixes.
3. Odors That Won’t Go Away
Strong odors (smoke, mildew, sweat) can penetrate the wool lining. Professionals use deodorizing techniques that are safe for shearling and leather.
4. Discoloration or Fading
Color unevenness — especially on vintage or dyed shearling — needs expert color-matching and restoration.
5. Annual Deep Cleaning
Even if your jacket looks fine, a once-a-year professional conditioning and cleaning helps maintain its softness, color, and structure.
Quick Tip Box:
Look for a cleaner that specializes in leather and shearling — not all dry cleaners are qualified. Ask for before/after photos and product safety assurances.
Conclusion: Keep Your Shearling Jacket Timeless
Your Shearling Jacket Deserves the Best — Treat It Right, Wear It Forever
Your shearling leather jacket isn’t just clothing — it’s an investment, a statement, and often a lifelong companion. With just a bit of regular care, you can preserve its rich look, luxurious feel, and rugged durability for decades.
Let’s recap what keeps your jacket in top shape:
- Regular brushing to keep the suede soft
- Gentle spot-cleaning for small messes
- Smart stain removal with the right tools
- Proper storage away from light, moisture, and plastic
- Knowing when to call in the pros for deep cleaning
Whether you wear your jacket daily in winter or just on special occasions, maintaining it properly ensures it ages with character, not damage.
At Jackets Kingdom, we stand behind the craftsmanship of every shearling piece we sell. That’s why we believe caring for your jacket is part of the experience — not a chore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you clean a shearling leather jacket at home?
Yes, you can clean a shearling leather jacket at home using a soft suede brush for dust and a damp cloth with mild soap for spot-cleaning. Avoid soaking or machine washing the jacket.
2. What is the best way to remove stains from a shearling jacket?
Blot stains immediately with a clean, damp cloth. For tougher stains, use a mix of water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio), dab gently, and let it air dry — never rub or scrub.
3. Can I use a hairdryer to dry my shearling jacket?
No. Direct heat like hairdryers or radiators can shrink the leather and harden the wool. Always air-dry your shearling jacket naturally, away from sunlight or heat.
4. How often should I clean my shearling leather jacket?
Spot-clean as needed and give it a gentle brush every 2–3 wears. A professional deep clean is recommended once a year, especially before long-term storage.
5. What kind of hanger should I use for storing shearling jackets?
Use a wide, padded hanger to help maintain the shape of the jacket. Avoid wire hangers or thin plastic ones that can stretch or crease the shoulders.
6. Is it safe to use leather conditioner on shearling?
Yes — but only on the leather side, not the wool. Use a leather-safe conditioner sparingly to prevent drying or cracking. Avoid using anything oily or greasy.
7. Can I wear my shearling jacket in the rain or snow?
Light exposure is okay, but shearling isn’t waterproof. If it gets wet, shake off excess water, blot gently with a dry cloth, and air-dry at room temperature.
8. How do I remove odors from my shearling jacket?
Let it air out in a well-ventilated space. For stronger odors, place it near (not on) activated charcoal or baking soda in an enclosed space. Avoid sprays or perfumes.
9. Where should I store my shearling jacket in summer?
Store it in a cool, dry closet using a breathable cotton garment bag. Keep it away from sunlight, moisture, and plastic coverings to prevent mildew and color fading.
10. When should I take my shearling jacket to a professional cleaner?
Seek professional cleaning if your jacket has deep stains, odors, water damage, or fading. Choose a cleaner experienced with leather and shearling garments.
