To effectively clean faux leather garments, including jackets and pants, use cold to warm water with a gentle detergent, either by hand or on a delicate machine cycle, and always avoid hot water, high-heat dryers, and harsh cleaning chemicals.
Understanding Faux Leather Care
Faux leather, also known as synthetic leather, pleather, or vegan leather, requires specific care to maintain its appearance and prolong its lifespan. Unlike genuine leather, it's more susceptible to damage from high heat and strong chemicals. Proper cleaning prevents cracking, peeling, and shrinking, ensuring your garments look their best.
Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Faux Leather Garments
Whether you choose to hand wash or machine wash, the key is to be gentle and use the right water temperature and detergent.
Preparation
Before washing, always check the garment's care label for any specific instructions. For visible spots or stains, gently wipe the area with a damp cloth and a tiny bit of mild soap first.
Washing Method: Hand or Machine
The reference states that faux leather garments can be washed by hand or on a delicate cycle.
- Hand Washing:
- Fill a clean basin or tub with cold to warm water. Never use hot water, as it can cause the faux leather to shrink.
- Add a small amount of gentle detergent. Examples include mild dish soap (diluted), wool wash, or a detergent designed for delicates.
- Submerge the faux leather garment and gently swish it around in the soapy water. Avoid harsh scrubbing or twisting.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse the garment thoroughly under cool, running water until all soap residue is gone.
- Machine Washing:
- Turn the faux leather garment inside out to protect its outer surface.
- Place the garment in a mesh laundry bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against abrasion during the wash cycle.
- Select the delicate cycle on your washing machine.
- Ensure the water temperature setting is for cold to warm water.
- Add a gentle detergent to the dispenser.
Drying Faux Leather Garments
Drying faux leather correctly is crucial to prevent damage.
- After washing, gently press out any excess water from the garment. Do not wring or twist, as this can stretch or damage the material.
- Never use a high-heat dryer, as a high-heat dryer can cause faux leather to come apart, crack, or become stiff.
- Instead, hang the garment on a padded hanger or lay it flat on a clean, dry towel to air dry. Ensure there is good air circulation around the garment.
- Avoid direct sunlight or placing the garment near heat sources like radiators, as this can also cause damage over time.
Key Precautions and What to Avoid
To maintain the integrity and appearance of your faux leather clothes, it's vital to follow these warnings:
- Hot Water: As highlighted by the reference, never use hot water because it can cause shrinking of the faux leather material.
- High-Heat Dryers: Avoid using a high-heat dryer at all costs. This heat can cause the faux leather to come apart, crack, peel, or become permanently damaged.
- Harsh Cleaning Chemicals: Stay away from strong solvents, bleach, abrasive cleaners, or other aggressive cleaning agents. These substances can ruin the material, leading to discoloration, stiffness, or breakdown of the faux leather. Always stick to gentle, mild detergents.
Faux Leather Cleaning Do's and Don'ts
For quick reference, here's a summary of best practices:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Wash with cold to warm water | Use hot water (causes shrinking) |
| Use a gentle detergent | Use harsh cleaning chemicals (ruins material) |
| Hand wash or use a delicate machine cycle | Put in a high-heat dryer (material comes apart) |
| Air dry away from direct heat or sunlight | Wring or twist garments after washing |
| Turn garments inside out for machine washing | Store in humid environments or direct sunlight long-term |
