Cleaning your leather suit: how to keep your motorcycle suit clean and well maintained
Your motorcycle suit is more than just a stylish outfit, it protects you on every ride. But wind, weather and insects are tough on the material. If you want your leather suit to last a long time, you should clean it regularly and look after it properly. The right products, the right sequence and a few important basic rules are important here.
Whether you use home remedies or professional products, the following tips will get your leather motorcycle suit back into shape without the need for a washing machine.
The MYCOVER® team clarifies!
Table of Contents
- Cleaning and caring for leather suits – what you should bear in mind
- Interior cleaning, washing machine or professional – what really makes sense
- Washing motorcycle suits – this applies to textile suits
- Conclusion: regular leather suit cleaning and care pays off
- FAQ – all about cleaning motorcycle suits
Cleaning and caring for leather suits – what you should bear in mind
Before you start using leather care, your suit should be clean. The best way to remove coarse dirt is with a soft, damp cloth. Mild soap or a special leather suit cleaner will help with insect residue, road grime or traces of oil. Make sure you never use too much water, leather prefers it dry.
Home remedies such as curd soap, washing-up liquid or a splash of vinegar water work well for light soiling. They are inexpensive and do not damage the material. It is important that you wipe everything with a clean, damp cloth and then leave to dry thoroughly. No hair dryer, no heating, no direct sunlight, otherwise the leather will become brittle.
After drying comes care: leather grease, balm or special care products keep the material supple and prevent cracks. If you are out and about regularly, you should care for your leather suit once a month. Before winter, we recommend thorough leather care with waterproofing so that the suit is protected throughout the cold season.
Interior cleaning, washing machine or professional – what really makes sense
What many people forget: Dirt and odor can accumulate not only on the outside, but also on the inside, especially on hot days. If the inner lining of your leather suit is removable, you can wash it separately by hand, preferably with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Lining without a zipper should be cleaned carefully with a damp cloth and left to dry thoroughly.
A common mistake: putting your leather suit in the washing machine. This is taboo for genuine leather suits. Only a few models (e.g. certain Dainese suits) are designed for this and even then only at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle, without spinning. For all others: stay away from the machine, it can irreparably damage the leather.
If you want to be on the safe side, you can also have your leather suit professionally cleaned. Providers such as Louis or Polo offer this service, as do specialized cleaning companies. The cost of cleaning your motorcycle suit is between 50 and 150 euros, depending on its condition and the amount of work involved.
Washing motorcycle suits – this applies to textile suits
Not every motorcycle suit is made of leather; textile suits are often much easier to clean. Many models can be washed in the washing machine, but only with the right program and suitable detergent. It is important to remove protectors beforehand, close zippers and Velcro fasteners and use a special functional detergent without fabric softener.
Instead of traditional detergent, you can also use soap nuts. They contain natural soaps (saponins) and are a gentle alternative for delicate textiles.
A gentle wash cycle at 30-40 degrees and low spin speed is sufficient. Then rinse well, impregnate and leave to air dry. No heating, no direct sunlight. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
Conclusion: regular leather suit cleaning and care pays off
A clean and well-maintained leather suit not only looks better, it also protects you more reliably. If you clean and care for your motorcycle suit regularly, you will extend its service life and maintain its full functionality. Home remedies are often sufficient, while special products provide even better protection in the event of heavy use. Whether you do it yourself or leave the cleaning to professionals: The crucial thing is that you do it at all and pay attention to the material, agent and drying process.
FAQ – all about cleaning motorcycle suits
How to clean a leather suit?
You should never clean a leather suit in the washing machine. Instead, it should be gently cleaned by hand with a damp cloth and special leather cleaner. It is then important to treat it with leather grease or leather balm to keep the material supple and weather-resistant.
Washing motorcycle station wagons – what’s the right way to do it?
The following applies when washing motorcycle suits: remove protectors, use a functional detergent and wash the suit on a gentle cycle at a low temperature. You should avoid using fabric softener and high spin speeds. After washing, a new impregnation helps to restore the moisture protection.
Cleaning motorcycle leather suits – is that allowed?
Washing a motorcycle leather suit in the washing machine or in a water bath is not permitted, as genuine leather can be permanently damaged by moisture, heat and cleaning agents. Instead, it should always be cleaned gently by hand, preferably with a soft cloth, a little water and a special leather cleaner. A suitable leather care foam can help with heavier soiling. It is important to allow the suit to air dry at room temperature afterwards, never in the sun or on a radiator. After cleaning, the leather should be treated with a care product to keep it supple and resistant. If you want to be on the safe side, have your leather suit professionally cleaned and cared for on a regular basis.
How do I clean my leather suit properly?
The best way to clean your leather suit is with a damp cloth and a special leather cleaner. Apply the cleaner evenly without soaking the leather. Avoid aggressive household cleaners, as they can dry out or discolor the leather. Then wipe with a clean cloth and leave to dry completely.
Can I wash my leather suit in the washing machine?
No, a leather suit should never be washed in the washing machine. The drum movement, heat and moisture can irreparably damage the leather. Instead, cleaning by hand with a special leather care product and plenty of care is the better choice.
How often should I clean my leather suit?
Thorough cleaning is advisable about once or twice a season, preferably after intensive tours or at the end of the season. If you often ride in bad weather or the combi is very dirty, more frequent maintenance may also be necessary.
How do I care for my leather suit after cleaning?
After cleaning, you should treat your motorcycle leather suit with leather grease, leather oil or leather balm. These products keep the leather supple, prevent cracks and maintain its protective function. Make sure to apply the care product evenly and thinly and allow it to absorb well.
Should I impregnate my leather suit?
Yes, regular waterproofing helps to protect your leather suit from moisture and dirt. To do this, use a waterproofing spray for smooth leather or combination products that combine care and protection. The waterproofing should be applied after cleaning and complete drying.
How do I remove stubborn stains from my leather suit?
Stubborn stains are best removed with a mild leather cleaner and a soft cloth. A special cleaner can help with oil or insect residues. Avoid rubbing vigorously, rather treat gently several times. If you are unsure, take it to a specialist.
How do I store my leather suit properly?
Store your leather suit in a dry, dark and airy place, e.g. in a cupboard with good ventilation. It is best to hang them on a wide hanger to prevent creases. Airtight garment bags are unsuitable as leather needs to breathe.
Can I use home remedies to clean my leather suit?
Curd soap or a mild soap suds are suitable for light soiling, but should only be applied selectively and very sparingly. It is best to use a soft cloth or sponge. However, professional leather cleaners are clearly recommended for regular care.
How do I know if my leather suit needs cleaning?
If the leather looks dull, smells unpleasant or shows visible soiling such as insect residue, mud or sweat marks, it is time for cleaning. Diminishing water repellency can also be a sign that care and impregnation are required.
How much does it cost to have a leather suit professionally cleaned?
Prices are usually between 50 and 150 euros, depending on the condition and provider. Louis Polo or specialized cleaning companies offer this service. Check whether impregnation or care is also included.
Can I have my leather suit cleaned at Louis or Polo?
Yes, both Louis and Polo offer professional cleaning for leather motorcycle suits. Depending on the branch, you can hand in your suit there or have it sent in.
How do I clean a white leather suit?
You should treat light-colored leather suits with particular care. Use a gentle cleaning agent without bleach additives, clean only in certain areas and always test new agents on inconspicuous areas.
