How to Clean a Vegan Leather Jacket (Without Ruining It!)

Your vegan leather jacket is a total vibe—sleek, stylish, and completely cruelty-free. But spills, sweat, and city smog? Not so chic. If you’ve ever hesitated to wear your faux fave on a misty day or after a messy lunch, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about how to clean a vegan leather jacket and keep it looking brand new.

Let’s dive into the best way to clean faux leather jackets using gentle tools, DIY tricks, and safe products that won’t ruin your beautiful piece. Spoiler alert: it’s easier than you think, and yes, totally doable at home!

Understand Your Material

Before cleaning anything, you’ve gotta know what you’re working with. Most vegan leather is made from polyurethane (PU) or other synthetic materials that are softer than PVC but still don’t act like real leather. This means no harsh soaking, no dryer heat, and absolutely no bleach.

So, can you wash vegan leather? Not in the washing machine, babe. That’s a one-way ticket to crack city. But a quick hand-cleaning session? Absolutely doable—and even kind of fun when you’ve got the right tools.

Tip: Keep it gentle with a soft microfiber cloth set like this one from Amazon—perfect for delicate vegan leather.

Daily Cleaning Tips for Vegan Leather

If your jacket gets light use, you don’t need a deep clean every week. A quick wipe-down does wonders. Just dampen a clean cloth with warm water (not dripping wet) and gently go over the surface. This lifts off dust, oils, and mystery spots before they turn into stubborn stains.

Want to level it up? Use a drop of mild, plant-based dish soap in water. That combo is magic for light surface grime and helps keep your jacket looking fresh. These little routines are the secret behind how to maintain a vegan leather jacket without the drama.

Recommended Product: Try a vegan-safe all-purpose cleaner like Puracy—non-toxic and super jacket-friendly.

How to Remove Stains from Vegan Leather

Oops! Got coffee or foundation on your lapel? No judgment—we’ve all been there. Start with a damp cloth and gently blot (don’t rub!) the stain. For tougher messes, mix one part white vinegar with two parts water and dab the spot gently.

Still seeing a mark? Reach for a gentle cleaner for vegan leather—something formulated for faux materials. Always test it on an inconspicuous area first (like the inside hem) to be safe.

Affiliate Pick: This faux leather stain remover is a total game-changer for makeup, ink, or greasy smudges.

Safe Cleaning Products for Vegan Leather

When in doubt, skip anything that sounds intense—no alcohol-based wipes, acetone, or furniture polish. Stick to safe cleaning products for vegan leather like pH-balanced sprays or mild soap solutions. These preserve the softness and color of your jacket, no matter the finish.

Also, avoid using paper towels—they can be scratchy. Always go for ultra-soft microfiber cloths to baby that surface.

Shop the Look: Get this vegan leather care kit—includes everything from cleanser to conditioner!

How to Clean White or Colored Faux Leather Jackets

White faux leather is gorgeous but shows dirt faster. For white or pastel tones, try mixing water with a small amount of baking soda and gently apply it using a damp cloth. Rinse with a clean, wet cloth to avoid residue.

How to clean colored faux leather jackets? Same method—just avoid anything too abrasive. Stick with gentle products and dab, don’t scrub.

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Conditioning and Making It Look New Again

Vegan leather can lose its luster over time, but it doesn’t have to stay dull. Use a faux leather conditioner to restore shine and prevent cracks. Just don’t overdo it—too much product can lead to buildup.

Want your jacket to look like it just came off the rack? A quality faux leather conditioner adds back that soft shine and helps smooth out any dullness from wear.

Tip: Try TriNova Faux Leather Conditioner—it’s a fave among cruelty-free fashionistas!

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How to Get Smell Out of a Vegan Leather Jacket

If your jacket smells a little musty (thanks, closet corners), there’s hope. Sprinkle a bit of baking soda inside and let it sit overnight before brushing it off. You can also hang it in fresh air—but not direct sunlight!

A fabric-safe deodorizing spray can also work wonders if you’re dealing with stronger odors. Just double-check that it’s safe for synthetics.

How to Clean Inside Lining of Faux Leather Jacket

The outer layer gets all the attention, but don’t forget the lining! Turn the jacket inside out and spot-clean with a damp cloth and mild soap solution. Be extra careful around seams to avoid stretching.

Let it air dry on a sturdy hanger in a well-ventilated space—no dryers, no heaters, and definitely no direct sunlight. If you’re wondering about the best way to dry vegan leather without damaging it, just remember: air and patience are your best friends here.

DIY Vegan Leather Cleaner (for the Crafty Types)

Want to make your own cleaner? Mix 1 cup of warm water, 1 tsp olive oil, and a splash of vinegar. Shake in a spray bottle and you’re ready to go. This DIY vegan leather cleaner works well for light refreshes.

Always label your bottle and shake before each use. Bonus: it smells amazing and has zero scary chemicals.

Final Thoughts: Clean, Chic, and Compassionate

Keeping your jacket clean doesn’t mean endless effort—it just takes a few smart habits. With the right products and a gentle hand, how to care for a vegan leather jacket becomes second nature. No cracking, no fading, no regrets—just a piece that keeps turning heads for all the right reasons.

Ready to give your favorite jacket some love?

Shop Editor’s Picks for Vegan Leather Jacket Care
Top-Rated Faux Leather Conditioner
Gentle Plant-Based Cleaner
Multi-Pack Microfiber Cloths