A peeling faux leather bomber jacket can be frustrating. One day it looks great, and the next, it starts flaking like dry paint. Before you think of tossing it or spending on a new one, take a breath. 

There are practical, affordable ways to fix it. You just need a little time, the right tools, and a few techniques that actually work.

Why Does Faux Leather Peel?

Faux leather is not real leather. It’s made from plastic materials like polyurethane (PU), layered over a fabric base. Over time, this coating breaks down; especially with heat, friction, moisture, or regular wear. Once it starts cracking, the peeling can spread fast. That’s why early repair is key. 

Things You’ll Need

• Mild soap and cloth

• Sandpaper (180–220 grit)

• Leather or acrylic paint

• Leather filler

• Fabric or leather glue

• Small paintbrush or sponge

• Optional: permanent marker pen, shoe polish, clear nail polish

Let’s walk through your options.

Method 1: Clean the Surface First

Before any fix, you need a clean surface. Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Gently wipe down the peeling area. Make sure there’s no dirt or oil left. Let it dry fully. Then, take fine-grit sandpaper and lightly sand the peeling edges. This removes loose flakes and smooths the area for repair.

Method 2: Use Leather or Acrylic Paint

When the damage is shallow or covers a wide area, leather or acrylic paint works best. It’s flexible and won’t crack with movement. Use a paintbrush or sponge to apply a thin coat. Let it dry completely before applying the next one. Two or three coats should give full coverage. Finish with a sealant for longer-lasting results.

Method 3: Fill Deeper Cracks with Leather Filler

For spots where the faux layer is gone or the surface feels uneven, use leather filler. Apply a small amount to the damaged area. Smooth it out with a spatula or your finger. Once it dries, sand it gently, then paint over it to match the rest of the jacket. This method helps rebuild the texture and gives a cleaner finish.

Method 4: Glue Down the Edges

If parts of the material are lifting but not completely gone, you can glue them back. Use a thin layer of fabric or leather glue under the peeling edge. Press it flat with your fingers or a soft cloth. Hold it in place for a minute. Let it cure for several hours before wearing.

Method 5: Patch Larger Damaged Areas

If a big section has peeled off or flaked away, patching may be the best option. Buy a faux leather patch that matches your jacket’s color. Cut it to size, then use strong adhesive to attach it. Press firmly and let it dry. You can also sew the edges for added durability, especially on sleeves or elbows.

Budget-Friendly Hacks Using Household Items

Sometimes, you don’t have leather tools on hand. That’s okay. These quick fixes can help until you do a full repair.

Permanent Marker Pen

Use a permanent marker pen to color over small flakes or exposed fabric. Choose a shade that closely matches your jacket. It's a simple trick to make minor damage less visible.

Shoe Polish

A bit of shoe polish can work wonders. Dab a small amount on a soft cloth and gently buff the area. It blends surface cracks and gives the material a polished look. Just make sure the color matches.

Nail Polish

Clear nail polish isn’t just for nails. It can seal tiny peeling spots and stop them from getting worse. Apply a thin coat over the damaged edge to keep it from lifting further.

Care Tips to Prevent Peeling Again

After repairing your faux leather bomber jacket, proper care keeps it looking good:

• Hang it on a padded hanger (not crumpled in a pile)

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and heaters

• Wipe it down monthly with a damp cloth

• Use a faux leather conditioner to keep the surface flexible

These small habits go a long way in preventing future damage.

Conclusion

A little peeling doesn’t mean the end for your jacket. With the right method - whether it’s paint, glue, filler, or even just a shoe polish - you can get it looking stylish again. You don’t need to be an expert or spend much. Just take your time, follow the steps, and soon you’ll be able to wear your faux leather bomber jacket with confidence again.