How to Clean Auto Leather Seats
Leather seats are becoming a necessary luxury for many potential new car buyers. Leather seats are soft, supple and comfortable. They keep a constant temperature in the summer and winter. Leather is a natural material that adds value to a car and gets better with time if properly cared for. Although leather seats are more stain resistant than fabric seats, over time, a buildup of body oils, grime and dirt can occur. It is important to properly clean and condition leather seats occasionally so that they keep their beautiful appearance.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum
- Water-based auto leather cleaner
- Microfiber cloth, dampened with water
- Microfiber cloth, dry
- Upholstery brush
Instructions
-
-
1
Vacuum seats thoroughly.
-
2
Apply cleaner to damp microfiber cloth until it is damp but not saturated.
-
-
3
Work cloth in a circular motion over leather seats, doing a small section at a time. Pay special attention to areas that are extra dirty or stained and firmly rub until stains are removed.
-
4
Move the upholstery brush swiftly in a back and forth motion.
-
5
Wait five minutes to allow cleaner to penetrate leather.
-
6
Wipe with dry micro fiber cloth in the same circular motion to remove cleaner residue that has not been absorbed.
-
7
Repeat cleaning process on any areas to remove tough stains.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For best results, follow up the cleaning with a leather conditioner. Leather conditioning products are sold near leather cleaning products in auto supply stores.
To maintain good conditioning, dark leather seats should be cleaned at least 3 times per year; light leather seats should be cleaned approximately 6 times per year.
In between cleaning, maintain leather seats by wiping them down with a damp towel when you wash your car.
Wipe spills immediately to prevent set-in stains or upholstery damage.
Test cleaner in a hidden area to make sure color does not fade and the leather is not sensitive to your cleaning product.
Leather car seats that are severely cracked and dry need professional restoration
Natural body oils and sunscreen cause accelerated buildup on leather seats. Take care to wipe greasy or oily areas immediately to prolong the appearance of your leather car seats.
