Auto Tech Collision Center

How To Clean Your Leather Upholstery Right Every Time

So, you went a little snazzier and decided to get a vehicle with fancy leather upholstery and yes indeed, it is really nice, but cleaning it can be challenging to say the least. Vinyl is easy to clean, but leather offers a whole set of different obstacles and pitfalls if you don't know how to do it correctly.

So, here are some helpful tips about how to properly clean your leather upholstery from all of us at Auto Tech Collision Center, because we know that many of our customers in Los Angeles, CA have leather interiors in their cars.

By skillfully cleaning your leather upholstery regularly and using only the appropriate cleaners, you can preserve the softness and resilience of the leather and make certain that it will last for many years to come.

Basic Cleaning

To remove any dust and grime that accumulates every single day on upholstery, you must make sure to dust it at least once a week. Use a vacuum brush to vacuum out all of the dirt and debris on the upholstery at the outset. Then follow up with a thorough wiping, using a soft cloth dampened with good old H2O. Vacuuming initially and then wiping afterward ensures that you will not rub small dust particles into the leather, causing small scratches on the surface.

Deep Cleaning

A deep, methodical cleaning on leather upholstery is crucial and should be performed on a monthly basis.

To do this, make certain to use good quality leather cleaning products that are formulated exclusively for leather surfaces. Before trying any new product, always test it initially on a small not easily seen area to rule out any adverse effects if they occur. Always follow the cleaning instructions on the packaging.

 Always avoid using harsh cleaners or alkalis to clean any leather, because they might cause permanent discoloration and damage to the upholstery. Many of these products contain mild detergent, vinegar, linseed oil or moisturizing soap that has little or no alkali content, so they won't harm the leather.

If you use any type of detergent, mix it with water until it forms bubbles then use only the bubbles and suds to gently clean all leather surfaces.

Then use a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and it will prolong its lifespan. Always apply the conditioner when the leather is fully dry. Regular cleaning and conditioning will eliminate the stains, dirt and oils from human skin that tend to build up on leather surfaces. A leather protector is also a valuable tool for maintaining the luster and strength of the leather.

If you clean it right, your leather upholstery will look sweet and retain that "wow" factor for the life of your car!

Sources: The Family Handyman, YouTube and AOL