Keeping your motorcycle suit clean is one of the most important things you can do to protect both your investment and your safety. Whether it’s leather or textile, your riding gear faces road grime, sweat, oil, and unpredictable weather. Without proper care, even the best suits can crack, fade, or lose their protective strength over time.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the five most common motorcycle suit cleaning mistakes riders make — and share expert tips on how to clean and maintain your suit the right way.

🏍️ Why Proper Motorcycle Suit Cleaning Matters

Your motorcycle suit does much more than make you look like a pro on the road. It’s a critical piece of protective equipment that shields you from abrasion, impact, and the elements. But dirt, oil, and salt from sweat or rain can break down the materials over time, reducing protection and comfort.

Proper cleaning not only extends the life of your suit but also ensures:

• Better flexibility and comfort while riding

• Longer-lasting color and finish

• Consistent protective performance during impact

• A professional, fresh look every time you ride

Unfortunately, many riders unknowingly shorten the life of their suits by cleaning them the wrong way. Let’s dive into the top five mistakes to avoid.

❌ Mistake #1: Using Harsh Chemicals or Detergents

One of the most damaging mistakes is using strong household cleaners, detergent soaps, or alcohol-based sprays on your motorcycle suit. These products can strip the leather’s natural oils and cause the fabric to lose its protective coating.

For leather suits, harsh cleaners can make the surface brittle and prone to cracking. Textile suits, on the other hand, can lose their waterproofing and abrasion resistance.

✅ Correct Way:

• Use a specialized leather or textile cleaner designed for motorcycle gear.

• Gently apply with a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.

• Always test on a small, hidden area before cleaning the entire suit.

• Avoid excessive scrubbing — it can damage the protective coating.

☀️ Mistake #2: Drying the Suit in Direct Sunlight

After cleaning, many riders make the mistake of hanging their suit under the sun to dry faster. While it may seem convenient, direct heat and UV rays can cause the leather to stiffen and fade. Textile fibers can also weaken with prolonged sun exposure.

✅ Correct Way:

• Let the suit air dry in a shaded, ventilated area.

• For leather suits, pat dry using a clean microfiber towel first.

• Never use a hair dryer, heater, or dryer machine — these can permanently damage the suit.

Pro Tip: After drying, apply a light layer of leather conditioner to restore lost oils and maintain softness.

💧 Mistake #3: Storing the Suit While It’s Still Damp

Riders often wash their suit and quickly tuck it away, thinking it’s “almost dry.” But moisture trapped inside the fabric or armor lining can lead to mold growth, unpleasant odor, and material decay.

Leather especially needs to breathe — when it’s stored damp, it starts to rot from within.

✅ Correct Way:

• Always ensure your suit is 100% dry before storing.

• Store it in a cool, dry, and ventilated place — never in a sealed bag.

• Hang the suit on a wide, padded hanger to maintain its natural shape.

• If storing long-term, consider a breathable cover (not plastic).

🧴 Mistake #4: Forgetting to Condition the Leather

Just like skin, leather needs hydration. Without it, it dries, cracks, and loses its natural luster. Many riders skip this step, assuming cleaning alone is enough — but conditioning is what keeps the suit flexible and ready for action.

✅ Correct Way:

• Use a pH-balanced leather conditioner every few months.

• Apply it using a soft cloth in circular motions.

• Focus on high-flex areas like elbows, knees, and shoulders.

• Let it absorb overnight before wearing again.

Conditioning not only makes your leather suit look great but also helps it resist moisture and maintain its protective strength.

⚙️ Mistake #5: Ignoring Zippers, Armor, and Stitching

It’s easy to focus only on the outer surface of your suit and forget about the small components that hold it all together. Over time, zippers collect dust, Velcro loses grip, and armor inserts accumulate sweat that can cause odor or bacteria buildup.

✅ Correct Way:

• Remove armor inserts before cleaning and wash them separately.

• Clean zippers using a soft brush and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant.

• Inspect the stitching regularly for wear and tear — small fixes can save the entire suit.

This simple attention to detail ensures your suit remains as reliable as the day you bought it.

🧠 Bonus Tip: Regular Spot Cleaning Works Wonders

Instead of waiting for your suit to get completely dirty, try spot cleaning it after every few rides. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes road dust, salt, and sweat before they sink deeper into the material.

If you ride frequently, schedule a deep clean every 2–3 months — especially during the riding season.

🧥 Final Thoughts

Your motorcycle suit is more than a piece of gear — it’s your second skin on the road. Treating it right ensures it keeps protecting you ride after ride. By avoiding these motorcycle suit cleaning mistakes, you’ll enjoy comfort, performance, and style that lasts for years.

At Esteem Biker Suits, we design premium custom motorcycle suits built for durability, safety, and easy maintenance — because great gear should last as long as your passion for riding.

Further you can visit EBS Suit Maintenance guide in our blogs.