How to Straighten Wrinkled Leather

Leather is durable, flexible and thicker than other materials, but it can still wrinkle. While many people might ignore the creases, they can detract from the appearance. Wrinkled leather is not that hard to smooth out as long as you are careful.

There are three basic ways to smooth out creases in leather. The first method is to put the leather item on an ironing board and spread a pillowcase on top. If there are wrinkles on both sides of the item, you can slide it into the pillowcase. Put your iron on the lowest heat and flatten out the leather as much as you can. The extra material will protect your leather from the iron's heat. Iron gently in a circular motion without too much pressure for about 15 to 20 seconds and check the leather.

Repeat that three to four times and if it is not working, move to the following option: steaming it in the bathroom. Hang your leather garment in the bathroom close to your shower before you are ready to take one. Leave it there while washing up and then hang it on the shower rod when you are finished. The steam can soften the leather and smooth it out. One word of caution, though – don't hang the piece too close to the water or it will get on the leather and leave stains.

Mix equal parts of water and rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle and mix it up. Then, lightly mist an inconspicuous part of the leather to ensure that this does not make the color rub off. If all is well, mist the wrinkles, taking care not to get it wet. Stand back about 3 feet and spritz them a few times.

You can spritz the rest of the leather to soften it up too. Again, use a light hand because you do not want to create water stains. Gently stretch out the entire piece and the alcohol will work to loosen it up and smooth the wrinkles. Afterward, be sure to use a leather conditioner because the alcohol will dry out the leather.

Of course, the best way to tackle wrinkles is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Read the labels first in case there are specific care instructions. If it is a leather jacket, do not fold it for extended periods, as this can crease it and cause it to crack. It's better to hang it on a wide, padded hanger in a well-ventilated closet. Keep it out of the sun, especially if it is made from suede.

Padded hangers are necessary because wire hangers can cause bumps in the shoulders. Give the jacket enough room to breathe; don't squish it between other jackets and coats. Leather goods should also remain dry because they do not like the rain. Should they get wet, wipe them down with clean towels and air dry. Never let them dry by a sunny window or near a heater because that will dry out the leather.

Treat your leather items to a conditioner designed for this use. Once or twice a year is suitable unless the product label specifies otherwise. If your leather item is in bad shape and needs a good cleaning, though, take it to a professional cleaner that specializes in leather cleaning.