Guide · Care

Caring for wool, suits & leather

Updated: June 2026 · 4 min

2 min read

How to keep wool, suits and leather looking good for years: air instead of wash, store properly, prevent moths. And how to tell when care is no longer enough and a repair saves the piece.

  • Airing instead of washing extends garment life
  • Proper storage protects against moths and distortion
  • Wool, suits and leather each need different care
  • Cedar and lavender against moths
  • When care is no longer enough and a repair saves the piece
Contents
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Protect wool and suits from moths

Five steps to stop moth holes from forming in the first place.

  1. 01

    Store clean

    Moths love sweat and stains. Store wool and suits only cleaned or aired, never worn.

  2. 02

    Add protection

    Cedar wood, lavender or an airtight garment bag keep moths away — mothballs aren't needed.

  3. 03

    Air and brush regularly

    Hang wool out in fresh air now and then and brush it down. Moths avoid clothing that's moved.

  4. 04

    Store dark and dry

    A dry, dark wardrobe is ideal. Damp and darkness over months attract moths.

  5. 05

    Act on an infestation

    If moths strike, wash or freeze the piece for a few days, clean the wardrobe — and have the holes repaired.

Caring for wool and suits

Wool rarely needs washing — airing is usually enough. Hang a suit or coat out after wearing, brush it with a clothes brush, and let small creases drop out with steam instead of pressing directly with an iron. The less often you dry-clean wool, the longer it stays good — over-frequent cleaning stresses the fibres.

Moth protection that actually works

The most effective measures against moth holes.

  • Store only clean — sweat and food traces attract moths.
  • Place cedar wood or lavender in the wardrobe and refresh it yearly.
  • Keep delicate wool pieces in an airtight garment bag.
  • Air, brush and move wool regularly.
  • Wipe out the wardrobe occasionally and check for webbing.
  • On an infestation: wash or freeze, then clean the wardrobe thoroughly.

Caring for leather

Leather likes neither radiator heat nor direct sun. Wipe it with a slightly damp cloth, let wet leather dry slowly in the air (never on the radiator), and treat it once or twice a year with a suitable leather grease or conditioner. Waterproofing protects against wet. That keeps leather supple so it doesn't crack.

When care is no longer enough

Some things can't be cared away: a moth hole in a coat, a seam that's come open, a worn-through collar, a stuck zip. Small holes and damage can often be repaired or closed invisibly — ask us what's possible for your piece. A timely repair stops small damage from becoming a write-off.

Repair is worth it

A good wool coat or leather jacket lasts decades with proper care. Closing a seam, renewing a lining or replacing a zip costs a fraction of a new piece — and is the most sustainable thing you can do for your wardrobe besides. What's worth it and what isn't, we'll tell you honestly.

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Frequently asked questions about care and moth protection

How do I protect wool from moths?

Store only clean, add cedar wood or lavender, air and brush regularly, and keep it dark and dry. Mothballs aren't needed for that.

How often should I have a suit cleaned?

As rarely as possible. Airing and brushing are usually enough. Over-frequent dry cleaning stresses the wool fibres.

Can moth holes be repaired?

Small holes can often be repaired or closed invisibly. Bring the piece in — we'll tell you what's possible for your fabric.

How do I care for a leather jacket?

Wipe with a damp cloth, dry slowly in the air (never on the radiator), and condition once or twice a year. Waterproofing protects against wet.

Is a repair worth it instead of buying new?

With good pieces almost always — a repair costs a fraction of a new item and is more sustainable. We'll say honestly when the work is worth it.

Do you also dry-clean?

No. We alter and repair clothing. Dry cleaning is done by a cleaner — we help if an alteration or repair is still needed afterward.

See all questions

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