Are You Storing Your Leather or Suede Jackets in a Plastic Garment Bag

Leather and suede jackets are a fashion staple.

Whether you have a leather moto jacket or a 3/4 length coat - or any style in between - these pieces are timeless, durable, and they complement numerous outfits making them a modern addition to any wardrobe.

It makes sense that you would want to preserve and preserve the longevity of your leather and suede pieces, right?

That is why it is important to ensure that the type of garment bag you are storing your jackets in could mean the difference of 1 year to 20+ years of wearability.

Here's why.

AVOID PLASTIC BAGS AND NON WOVEN FABRIC GARMENT BAGS

Plastic and non woven bags are the most common types of garment bags. Sure these bags protect your jackets from dirt and dust but they are only useful for short term purposes. They're a quick fix storage option that has detrimental effects, particularly when it comes to storing natural fabrics including your leather, suede, wool, cotton and silk garments long term.

You'll recognise the non woven fabric as it is similar to the fabric used in supermarket bags, storage bags, wound dressings, bandages and other uses.

Our garments need to breathe. Just us like humans, our leather and suede pieces, and all of our garments ... need to breathe.

The reason is that our clothes need fresh air to rejuvenate and nourish your garments' fabric fibres. It's basically like "freshening them up". When using plastic, non woven garment and PEVA bags, NO fresh air can comfortably circulate in and around your garments and wardrobe, particularly in cramped spaces, or spaces that lack fresh airflow. This potentially causes mould, mildew and moisture build-up.

Different types of garment bags

Discolouration and fade. Plastic and non woven bags also cause fading and discolouration (yellowing) in leathers, suede, cotton, silk, embellished pieces, wedding gowns and other delicate fabrics. The longer your leather and suede items in these types of bags, the more prone they are to discolouration and fade.

Leather and Suede Care. Be mindful that during the warmer months of the year, heat and humidity will dry out the leather and can cause it to become brittle and crack and lose its shape causing irreparable damage and be deemed unwearabe. Especially, if you have forgotten about them and stored them in the abyss of your wardrobe for years. Remember to check on your pieces every 12 months and follow the care instructions to keep your garments in pristine shape.

Simply stated, and from experience, these bags do more harm than good when it comes to storing and protecting your leather and suede jackets, coats and other garments.

The Cost Of Mould Damage

This happened to my black leather jacket when I had it stored in a non woven garment bag for less than 1.5 years. Mould spores had developed, as no air could comfortably circulate through the bag dry out any moisture beads.

Not only did mould spores develop during that time, but the non woven garment bag had also crumbled into a thousand pieces all over my wardrobe floor. If it gets this far - depending on how soon you spot the damage - it is one of the most disheartening, time-consuming exercises to clean it up (I know because this happened to me!). These fragments get into every crevice, every space, and you're still finding them weeks later - let alone the damage that was caused to the jacket.

As I discovered, the non woven garment cover served absolutely no purpose in protecting my leather jacket. It was too late - the damage was done!

The repair bill to remove mould can range between AUD$65 - $250+ depending on the severity of the mould damage caused. I loved this jacket and I wanted to save it. It cost me just over AUD$75 to have the mould professionally removed from my jacket.

These cheap and nasty garment covers are proven to have no real long term benefit in protecting your beloved pieces. They are only useful for short term purpose, no more than six months.

When used long term, these "protector bags" will crumble into a thousand fragments and leave your garments' exposed to the elements like dust, dirt, mould, moisture and those pesky insects and moths - potentially caused further unwanted damage to your beloved leather and suede pieces.

PRO TIP | Every 6 - 12 months take out your garments, coats and jackets and air them out in the fresh air for 1 to 2 days - especially if you don't wear them all that often. It's a good idea just to check on them. They will love you for it! It will help prolong the integrity of the leather and suede fabric so you can enjoy wearing them for years to come.

PEVA AND PVC GARMENT BAGS

These bags are cheap and are generally manufactured from plastic, PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride). PEVA is a non-chlorinated vinyl and is commonly used in shower curtains and as a substitute for PVC - which is a type of chlorinated vinyl.

PVC is commonly used in household furnishings and is a known carcinogen and should generally be avoided where possible for garment storage and health purposes.

These bags have the same detrimental effects on your leathers and suedes as non woven bags.

PLASTIC AND DRY CLEANING BAGS

Sure we have our cherished and everyday garments dry cleaned, but did you know that these plastic dry cleaning bags should NEVER be used to store your wears?

The only purpose of these bags is to transport your freshly dry cleaned clothes from the shop to your home safely.

Discolouration can also be caused by BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), an anti-oxidant found in these plastic bags. Long term use of these bags is not advised as any leather or suede jacket or coat (or any natural fabric) being stored in these bags has the same damaging effects as non woven, plastic PEVA and PVC garment bags.

More specifically, note that these inferior non woven, PEVA, PVC and plastic garment bags will also diminish the leathers' integrity and shape over time.

Leather and suede repairs are costly. It is best to avoid these useless bags altogether, particularly if you are storing your leather and suede pieces for extended periods.

PRO TIP | For extra care, when storing your leather or suede garments - do not fold - as it will cause creases and further damage the delicate material. Only fold your jackets and coats when travelling, and only if necessary.

AVOID STORING YOUR LEATHER OR SUEDE IN SUNLIGHT

If your leathers are stored in sunlight (direct or indirect), or in humid or moisture-filled wardrobes (particularly if your wardrobe backs onto a wet area such as your ensuite or bathroom), and with little to no air circulation, this can also fast track and create mould spots, discolouration, fade, crumble, crack, and further damage to your leather and suede pieces due to these unfavourable environmental conditons.

Try storing your beloved pieces in open air spaces. After all, you've spent a pretty penny on them and you'd like to enjoy wearing them for years to come.

THIS IS WHAT WORKS

STORING YOUR LEATHER AND SUEDE JACKETS

It is refreshing to know that cotton is a natural fibre and has many positive attributes when it comes to safely storing and protecting your leather and suede pieces for any perioid of time.

Kazzi Kovers LOVES Cotton (and you will, too!)

Cotton has many fabulous attributes.

Eco-Friendly
Lightweight
Breathable
Acid-Free
Hygenic
Durable and Strong
Low Maintenance Fabric
Easy To Wash
Quick to Dry.

Kazzi Kovers Premium 100% Cotton Garment Bags are designed to protect your leather and suede pieces. Each bag is custom made, fully enclosed, and purposed to safeguard your leather and suede jackets and prolong their longevity in all storage conditions.

Leather jacket storage bag | Kazzi Kovers

Each cream coloured garment bag provides the ultimate protection against dust, insects (especially moths), mould, moisture and mildew due to the breathable cotton fabric, which is perfect for storing your leather and suede jackets, coats and other garments.

Each bag is also equipped with a full length, self-healing side-zipper for easy storage and access. If you're travelling with your leather jacket, we've also included a sturdy 100% cotton hook at the bottom to fold the bag over for travel or carry purposes. It's so easy.

See Kazzi Kovers 100% Cotton Garment Bag Packages. All options are also displayed below for your convenience.

CARING FOR YOUR LEATHER AND SUEDE

Clean Your Leather and Suede Jackets Periodically

Firstly, there are many different types of leathers. Always read and follow the manfuctureres care instructions - they know best.

Depending on how frequently you use your leather or suede jacket, remember to take it to a credible and specialised dry cleaner for extra TLC (tender, love and care). They have the necessary equipment, professional tools, and conditioners required to keep the leather supple, flexible and glowing all year round.

Whether you live in the city, the country or in dry or humid areas, you can source the appropriate conditioners and apply as necessary per instructions. Please FOLLOW the instructions carefully to avoid risking your valuable leather pieces.

If you live in wet areas, make sure you find suitable products designed for waterproofing and conditioning your leather or suedes. Doing this will extend the life of your pieces so that you can enjoy strutting your stuff in them for many years.

AVOID WIRE AND PLASTIC HANGERS

NEVER store your garments on wired or plastic hangers. These inferior hangers lack the necessary support your jackets and coats need and can disfigure the framework or your garments'. Know that the wire material can sometimes tarnish the garment when stored in humid areas and for extended periods. It can also leave a nasty, sometimes permanent stain and imprint, which may be difficult to remove.

INVEST IN A QUALITY WOODEN HANGER (and avoid wire and plastic hangers)

The rule of thumb is: The heavier the garment, the denser the hanger needs to be. Your leather and suede jackets, coats and pants should always be hung on a well-constructed quality wooden hanger.

Kazzi Kovers offers beautifully crafted FSC® 100% Certified European German Beech Wood Hangers - the ultimate wood for hangers - for garment storage and longevity.

Our leather and suede jacket wooden hangers offer a contoured frame, are incredibly dense, durable, and they're stylishly fabulous (even if we do say so ourselves!).

Each wooden hanger is purposed and designed to ensure that the shoulder and the arch of your leather jackets and heavier coats are fully supported while maintaining their shape, structure and fabric integrity for the long term.

QUICK TIPS FOR LEATHER AND SUEDE CARE

Follow these simple tips, and you’ll get the most out of your leather and suede jackets and coats for many seasons to come. Enjoy!

Store your leather pants or jackets in the freezer overnight, it works! Wrap in a plastic bag first. It doesn’t kill any bacteria or remove any stains or odours, but it does refresh them
Spot clean your leathers with a white cotton cloth
Never rub your leathers as it could cause colour fade
Test a small area of your jacket first with a conditioner or a waterproof cream or oil, before applying in full
If the leather is wet, let it dry out naturally or place a dry towel underneath to absorb the moisture
Avoid direct heat, sunlight, humidity, moisture where possible
Ensure airflow and ventilation is sufficient to avoid mould and mildew
Store and protect your garments in a 100% Cotton Garment Bags.
These are all important hallmarks for your leather jacket and coat storage.

Leather jacket garment bag | Kazzi Kovers

I hope this comprehensive guide helps and encourages you to take better care of your leather and suede jackets so you can enjoy wearing them for years to come.

Thanks for reading.

Remember if you ‘Love it, Cover it!®.’ with Kazzi Kovers.

Updated | 17th November 2023.

__________________________________________________________

Author and Founder | Maria Kazzi

Kazzi Kovers takes pride in providing safe and natural alternatives to Protect, Organise, Store and Travel with our range of premium covers and accessories.

See Kazzi Kovers for our full suite of products, blogs, tips and updates.

_____________________________________________________________

SHOP NOW

Kazzi Kovers Garment Bags | Ideal For

Storage and Travel | For all types of fabrics and garments including suits, coats, gowns, dresses, jackets, embellished and delicate pieces.
Business Travel | For suits, dresses, coats, jackets, ties.
Bride/Groom | Wedding dress, bridesmaid dress, mother-of-the-bride, men's suits and tuxedos. (After your big day, you can store your dress in the Kazzi Kovers Garment Bag to preserve its longevity/heirloom.)
Wedding | Travel with your wedding dress on the big day locally or for your destination wedding. Ideal for bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dress, Mother-of-the-Bride. Grooms and groomsmen.
Delicate and Embellished Garments: Dresses, costumes, heirlooms, one-off pieces, kaftans, saris, jabots, bar/barrister gowns and robes, + more.
Fashion Events | For designers, models, and garment protection during transit.
Dance | Dance costumes, sequined dresses, leotards, tutus, outfits.
Vintage Clothing | Protect your priceless vintage pieces; dresses, coats, jackets, fabrics and preserve fabric integrity
Equestrian and Sporting Attire | For all events. Also, for home and storage purposes.
Cruises and Black Tie Events - Pack and protect your dresses, gowns or suits etc. when travelling.
And more.

__________________________________________________________

NEW! | BLACK & WHITE GARMENT BAGS | 100% Cotton

Kazzi Kovers Black and White Garment Bags are available in the same packs as our cream coloured garment bags, shown below.

Our 100% Cotton Garment Bags are available Individually or as a Combo Set. Please choose the package that best suits your requirements.

Black & White 100% Cotton Garment Bags | Kazzi Kovers

__________________________________________________________

REGULAR GARMENT BAGS

Size Centimetres: 110 cm (H) x 65 cm (L) x 10 cm (Gusset)

Size Inches: 43.3" (H) x 25.5" (L) x 3.9" (Width/Gusset)

Suits | Jackets | Coats | 3/4 Length Coats
Dresses | Cocktail | Formal Dresses
Embellished | Beaded Garments
Delicate and Natural Fibres (leather, wool, silk, lace, suede, fur, velvet)
Jabots | Bar Jackets
Seasonal Garments
Saris | Kaftans
All Types of Costumes
Vintage Clothing | Uniforms
Heirlooms and More.

_________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________

LARGE (or long) GARMENT BAGS

Size Centimetres: 165 cm (H) x 65 cm (L) x 10 cm (Width/Gusset)

Size Inches: 65" (H) x 25.5" (L) x 3.9" (Width/Gusset)

Long Coats
Wedding Dress Formal
Cocktail Dresses | Gowns
Embellished and Beaded Garments
Delicate and Natural Fibres (leather, wool, silk, suede, furs, faux-furs, velvet)
Seasonal Garments
Bar Gowns | Barrister Gowns | Robes
Saris | Kaftans
All Types of Costumes
Vintage Clothing | Uniforms
Heirlooms and more.

________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________

COMBO GARMENT BAGS

Kazzi Kovers combo packs offer great value and include a Regular and Large Garment Bag combination to suit your requirements.

Perfect for when you need more than just one, and have different size garments you wish to protect.

REGULAR Garment Bag

Size Centimetres: 110 cm (H) x 65 cm (L) x 10 cm (Gusset)

Size Inches: 43.3" (H) x 25.5" (L) x 3.9" (Width/Gusset)

LARGE Garment Bag

Size Centimetres: 165 cm (H) x 65 cm (L) x 10 cm (Width/Gusset)

Size Inches: 65" (H) x 25.5" (L) x 3.9" (Width/Gusset)

__________________________________________________________

- PACKAGE OFFERS -

GARMENT BAG + EUROPEAN BEECH WOOD HANGER PACKAGE

If you have a favourite suit or dress or a one-off piece that you wish to protect, or perhaps an heirloom, Kazzi Kovers all-in-one packages are ideal and offer great value when it comes to garment longevity, and providing garment support.

Ideal for your occasional, seasonal and one-off pieces such as your suits, dresses, formal and cocktail wear, wedding dress, coats, jackets, costumes, sporting attire, heirlooms and more.

Wood Hangers are available in Natural Wood Grain or Walnut colours.

__________________________________________________________

PACKAGE OFFER 1 | REGULAR GARMENT BAG

Includes 1 x REGULAR Garment Bag + 1 x Wood HANGER

Kazzi Kovers all-in-one packages are ideal for your occasional, seasonal and one-off pieces. Protect and store your suits, dresses, coats, jackets, pants, skirts, formal attire, costumes and vintage pieces, sporting apparel and more.

Choose your GARMENT BAG | Regular Size or Large Size

Choose your HANGER SIZE | Clothes Hanger, Suit/Dress/Jacket Hanger, or Coat Hanger

Choose your HANGER COLOUR | Natural Wood Grain or Walnut