Major Cleaners Highlights Causes of Leather Jacket Peeling and Offers Expert Care Solutions
Preserving the Character of Leather Jackets
Major Cleaners, a leading cleaning and restoration service in Greenville, South Carolina, has issued a new advisory addressing a common concern among leather jacket owners: peeling. The company notes that the rich, worn-in character of a leather jacket is one of its most valued qualities, but over time, improper care can lead to peeling, scuffing, and a fragile appearance.
The team emphasizes that peeling does not occur overnight, and with the right preventative measures, leather owners can slow or even stop the damage before it spreads.
The Key Causes of Leather Peeling
Use of Harsh Soaps or Detergents
According to Major Cleaners, one of the fastest ways to damage a leather jacket is through the use of harsh soaps or detergents. Many consumers assume that standard laundry products are suitable, but these chemicals are designed to strip oils and break down stains on fabrics—not leather.
Why Harsh Soaps and Detergents Are Harmful
They strip essential oils, leaving leather brittle and vulnerable to peeling.
They disrupt the natural pH balance of leather, weakening its surface.
They leave residues that attract dust and dirt, causing further wear.
Expert Recommendation: Major Cleaners advises choosing specialized leather cleaners or mild soaps for delicate materials, always properly diluted to protect the jacket’s finish.
Excessive Scrubbing with Rough Brushes
The company warns that aggressive scrubbing is another common mistake. While many believe vigorous cleaning is the solution for tough dirt, rough brushes or abrasive sponges can wear down the finish and expose the raw leather beneath.
Risks of Aggressive Brushing
Creates surface abrasions that lead to peeling.
Damages leather fibers, reducing strength and flexibility.
Causes uneven wear patterns, making jackets appear prematurely aged.
Expert Recommendation: Major Cleaners recommends using soft-bristle brushes or microfiber cloths, applying light, circular motions to lift dirt gently.
Overexposure to Water
Leather is naturally porous, and when overexposed to water, it can absorb and hold moisture, setting off hidden damage. Major Cleaners explains that lightly dampened cloths are safe, but soaking or overwetting leather can cause serious long-term harm.
Problems Caused by Overwetting Leather
Fibers swell and warp, permanently altering the jacket’s shape.
Excess moisture fosters mold and mildew, creating odors and potential health risks.
Water strips natural oils, resulting in dryness, brittleness, and peeling.
Expert Recommendation: The company urges owners to avoid soaking leather and to always blot excess water with a dry towel, letting the item air dry away from heat and sunlight.
Use of Alcohol or Bleach-Based Cleaners
Major Cleaners identifies alcohol and bleach-based cleaners as particularly damaging substances for leather. Although effective at disinfecting other surfaces, these products break down finishes and accelerate drying.
Why Alcohol and Bleach Are Harmful
Strip away moisture and natural oils.
Break down protective coatings, leaving the surface unshielded.
Cause discoloration and blotchy appearances.
Expert Recommendation: For ink, oil, or grease stains, the company advises using leather-specific cleaners designed for delicate materials instead of resorting to alcohol or bleach.
Skipping Conditioning After Cleaning
Finally, Major Cleaners stresses the importance of conditioning. Many owners clean their jackets but skip this essential step, unaware that conditioning restores lost oils and keeps the leather flexible.
Why Conditioning Matters
Replenishes essential oils lost during cleaning.
Boosts resistance to dirt and stains.
Maintains softness and preserves rich color.
Expert Recommendation: The team suggests applying high-quality leather conditioner in light, circular motions with a soft cloth, allowing the product to absorb fully before use or storage.
Professional Leather Care in Greenville, SC
Major Cleaners concludes that prevention is the best strategy for maintaining the timeless appeal of leather jackets. With years of expertise in leather and suede care, the company specializes in gentle, moisture-restoring treatments that reduce peeling, stiffness, and discoloration.
Residents in Greenville can access Major Cleaners’ premium Leather and Suede Cleaning Service by calling (864) 675-9499, emailing [email protected], booking online, or visiting the location at 201 Wade Hampton Boulevard, Greenville, South Carolina, 29609.
