A faux leather jacket does not need much, but it does need the right kind of care. Most wear on faux leather comes from heat, harsh cleaners and being folded away for months. This guide covers the basics.
One note before anything else: your jacket's care label and product page come first. If they say something different from this article, follow them.
What faux leather is made of
Faux leather is a fabric base with a coating, most often polyurethane (PU), that gives it a leather-like surface. It is not animal hide, and it behaves differently from leather. It is usually lighter, and the coating is the part that needs protecting. Heat, friction and repeated hard creasing can wear the coating over time.
Everyday cleaning
- Wipe the surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
- For marks, use a small amount of mild soap diluted in water on the cloth, not on the jacket.
- Wipe again with a clean damp cloth, then pat dry with a soft towel.
- Let it air dry on a hanger away from radiators, direct sun and hairdryers.
Skip these
- Strong solvents, bleach or alcohol-heavy cleaners
- Rough sponges or scrubbing brushes
- A hot iron or steamer pressed against the surface
- Tumble drying
Machine washing
Do not machine wash unless the care label says you can. Some product pages list their own care instructions, and those are the ones to follow. When there is no instruction, hand cleaning is the safer route.
Storing your jacket
- Use a wide or padded hanger so the shoulders keep their shape.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place with some air around it. A breathable garment bag is better than a plastic one.
- Avoid folding it tightly for long periods, as sharp folds can leave lasting creases.
- Do not press it between heavy items in a wardrobe.
Dealing with creases
Hang the jacket in a warm room, away from direct heat, and give it a day. Light creases often relax by themselves. Avoid ironing the surface directly, because heat can mark or soften the coating.
Spills and stains
Blot, do not rub. Use a clean cloth, then follow the cleaning steps above. Deal with a spill soon after it happens, since the longer it sits, the harder it is to lift.
Choosing a jacket that fits your routine
If you wear a jacket every day, a simple black style is easy to keep tidy. Some starting points from the faux leather jackets collection at LEXE by Devici Studios:
- LEXE Striker Baseball Jacket, a loose black baseball style with a zip
- LEXE Cinch Jacket, a zip-up with a flip collar, listed as faux leather
- LEXE Rebel Moto Jacket, a loose moto style in black or pink
- LEXE Blaxk Cat Jacket, a short, loose zip jacket
Not sure how faux leather compares with the real thing? Read Faux Leather or Leather: What to Know Before You Buy.
Frequently asked questions
Can a faux leather jacket crack or peel?
Over time, yes. Coated fabrics can crack or peel, especially with heat, friction and sharp folding. Gentle cleaning and good storage slow this down.
How often should I clean it?
Wipe it down when it looks dirty or after wet weather. There is no need for a full clean on a schedule.
Can I wear it in the rain?
If you get caught in the rain, wipe the jacket dry afterwards and hang it up to air. Check the care label and product page for weather guidance.
Is it safe to use leather conditioner?
Leather products are made for leather. Faux leather has a different surface, so they are not recommended unless the label says so.