Storage Advice

[gap]

What is the best way to store a leather flight jacket?

[doyler]

I would think it should be stored flat.Maybe wrapped in muslin if needed or something acid free for long term storage in a controlled enviorment where light and humidity is controlled

[hbtcoveralls]

Doyler is correct. Best to store flat because hangers can cause issues for long term storage

 

Resist the urge to use any leather treatments or dressings as they too just temporarily make the leather look good but sacrifice long term preservation

 

Humidity protection will also be a huge factor as excessive moisture can promote the presence of molds, and excessively low humidity can lead to a form of leather degradation called "red rot"

 

Tom Bowers

[JDK]

As mentioned, flat or on a mannequin bust. I prefer the later since there are no folds or stress to certain areas. If storing flat stuff the arms and shoulder areas with acid free paper to keep fold lines off the jacket. Over long periods of time, these folds can cause cracking.

Also as mentioned, the most important is to keep humidity levels in the 50-60% area give or take a little. Too humid promotes mold and rotting, too dry promotes cracking leather and red rot. I run a humidifier and dehumidifier respectively during winter and summer. It really comes down to where you live.

 

JD

[Bluehawk]

As said - long-term, store flat, with arms/shoulders stuffed (not tightly) to prevent creases and cracking. Basically, any part of the jacket which, when lain flat on its back, will of its own weight, eventually press down on leather which over time will dehydrate and, certainly crack I would give a little padding to round out the edges. Depending on relative humidity in the storage area, this problem can and will happen either very slowly or surprisingly quickly - but surely will take place.

 

Museum costume collections have huge wide shallow drawers for this type of thing.

 

Good USMF thread on the topic:

http://www.usmilitariaforum.com/forums/index.php?/topic/24966-preserving-leather/