Just remember, the devil’s really in the details here. You want to be sure to use only a tiny bit of water; the cloth should only be slightly damp. And don’t skip out on distilled water, either. According to Ismail, “tap water can leave mineral spots.”

Step 4: Condition the leather

Whether you’re cleaning leather boots or a leather jacket, Ismail says condition leather is “essential” because cleaning with water can strip the leather. “Conditioning is important as it restores the natural oils and prevents the leather from drying out and cracking. (More on conditioning below.)

Step 5: Air dry

When you’ve finished, let the jacket air dry completely away from a heat source to prevent any warping or shrinking. “Air dry only,” emphasizes Ismail. “Never use a hairdryer, never put it near a radiator, and never leave it in direct sunlight. Heat will make the leather brittle and cracked.”

To avoid any of the aforementioned leather tragedies, hang the jacket on a sturdy, padded hanger in a well-ventilated room away from a window or heat source until it is completely dry.

Spot stain removal

For all stains, it’s best to act quickly—in other words, as soon as you see the stain. Acting quickly will prevent the stain from setting. Next, be sure to blot, not rub. For fresh spills, use a clean, dry cloth to immediately blot the offending liquid. “Rubbing will only push the stain deeper into the leather,” says Ismail.

For general grime or unidentified substances, use the damp cloth method described above. “A simple wipe with distilled water is often enough for minor spots,” says Ismail.

If you have a really stubborn or set-in stain, you will probably have to resort to more intensive methods—i.e., a cleaner specifically made for your type of leather. Once you’ve procured the right product, apply a small amount of the cleaner to a soft cloth. “Never apply cleaner directly onto the jacket,” says Ismail. “Remember to test it on an inconspicuous area of the leather first.”

Next, gently work on the stain in a circular motion. Pro tip: Be sure to do this in a well-light area during daylight hours if possible. This will help you get a better sense of how your efforts are working and prevent you from overdoing it. Easy does it—go slow. When you feel satisfied, wipe away any excess cleaner with a clean, damp cloth and let it air dry completely.

What to avoid when treating stains on leather

Remember, leather may seem tough but it requires special care. “It’s important to never use household cleaners, bleach, ammonia, alcohol, or acetone,” says Ismail. “Never.”