Let’s talk leather! Leather can be beautiful if you take care of it the proper way. Having clean leather adds resale value to the car and keeps the new car smell around longer. Leather can be easier to clean than cloth and harder to stain, but it has to be taken care of.
Maintaining
If not cleaned and treated regularly, it will scuff, splinter and crack. Now it is beyond repair and you’re replacing your seats. It doesn’t take long for your seats to get dirty between color transfer from your clothes, pets, and kids. When having your leather cleaned it is vital to take the correct steps to ensure you are safely cleaning and treating the seats.
No shortcuts
We often hear about customers or other detailers using strong cleaners to make the job easier. The downside to this method is that these chemicals can react with leather and can cause permanent damage. In some cases, the cleaner is sprayed on far too heavy, runs down the seats and now there are awful looking streak marks in your leather.
Another scenario we often see magic erasers being used. The tough cleaning power will scrub through the protective coating on the seats and once it is gone, it’s gone.
How to clean leather
We choose a less aggressive method. Here are our three simple steps to properly clean your leather.
- Use a mild leather cleaner
- Agitate with a leather safe brush
- Wipe with a towel
Having leather interior can add value to your investment, but you have to take care of it properly or it will lose color and crack! Choose a mild leather cleaner and be willing to do the work. Choosing an easy eraser, or overly strong spray can do more bad than good. Depending on the service, your leather can be protected from weeks to years. Who is your detailer?
