Patent leather products such as shoes and purses are making a fashion comeback. The leather is shiny and attractive and can be used for casual dress to after-five wear. Patent leather products are often in bright colors because the shiny finish makes the color stand out. It is one of the easiest leather products to care for, but occasionally, patent leather will become sticky. Before you pay for an expensive cleaning service or throw the item away, try fixing the sticky patent leather with a product you probably already have in your home.
Wipe the item with a clean, soft rag to remove dust.
Dampen a soft rag with vinegar. Rub the sticky area of the leather with the vinegar until all of the stickiness is gone.
Buff the cleaned area with a clean, soft rag.
Dampen a clean, soft rag with mineral spirits. Rub the mineral spirits into the entire item to keep the leather shiny and to protect it from drying and cracking.
Tips
Clean your patent leather products with mineral spirits periodically. You cannot repair patent leather if it cracks.