FAQ: Automotive Leather Care

[FliGi7]

Leather cleaning and conditioning is a much debated subject amongst detailers across the globe. This thread is created to serve the following purposes:

1) Describe what types of leather can typically be found in automotive interiors

2) Provide information from various sources documenting each one's particular methodologies for cleaning and conditioning automotive leather

3) Provide a forum for discussion on what methodologies, tools, and products do/don't work and why they do/don't work (whether it be speculation or fact based)

4) Ultimately, provide a go-to thread for many aspects of information as it relates to automotive leather care so that one has the ability to ask the right questions to determine a "best practice" for their particular use(s)



Types of Leather

First of all, before we even get into techniques or products, let's discuss the different types of leather that are used in automobiles. The most commonly used type of leather itself found in automobiles (and a lot of furniture, jackets, etc. due to its durability) is Aniline leather. Aniline leather is a “Top Grain” leather, meaning it came from the upper-most and highest quality part of the hide. This Aniline leather is first color dyed. It then receives pigment to ensure color-matching and consistency, fade resistance, and wear resistance. Finally, it receives a water-based polyethylene (I have also heard polyurethane) clear coat on top of this that acts much like a clear coat on your car in terms of protecting the underlying surface from exposure and/or excessive wear. This protective layer provides additional resistance against wear and staining of the leather beneath. It is this combination of products and processes that produces the “Protected Aniline Leather” (also classified as “P” type leather, referring to its identifying cleaning code used within the leather industry) as that is the overwhelming favorite of automotive producers and manufacturers.

However, some manufacturers produce leather with a vinyl top-coat (as compared to the poly-ethylene/urethane previous discussed), often referred to as “Corinthian” leather. This vinyl coating is to be treated like any other vinyl surface with the proper vinyl cleaners and protectants. Leather cleaners and conditioners are not recommended for this type of coated leather as the products cannot penetrate the top vinyl coat and are thus rendered useless.

There are several other types of leather to include Pure Aniline, Semi-Aniline, Nubuk, Distressed, Antiqued, Embossed… and the list goes on. We won’t get into those as they don’t usually pertain to automotive use. However, in some higher end and/or older vehicles, unprotected (Non-Pigmented or Semi-Aniline) leather may be used that does not have pigment or protection added. This type of leather is discernable by its difference in appearance, feel, and increased vulnerability to contaminants – thus requiring more careful methodologies and gentler/different products for care.

Superior Auto Care has some additional information about leather types…

“Precautionary Leather Education

Leather seats do not need to be intimidating; proper leather care is easy! In this section, we will familiarize you with types of leather you will encounter, and what to expect from them. The types of leather you can purchase are usually divided into two important categories.

One process is called “Spray-On” dying, and is used by most American and Japanese manufacturers. Although this process creates a livid, vibrant color, it is not an everlasting achievement. The oils secreted from your skin may cause spray-on leathers to lose their color prematurely, dampening the effect of your lush leather interior. Removing these oils is paramount to leather care, but limiting the amount of bare skin you expose to your seats and interior is a great way to prevent discoloration. Once damage to the extent of cracking has been done to spray on leathers, there is no way to restore them to original factory condition without dying them.

The second process for treating leather is called “Vat-Dying,” and is predominantly seen in European and higher end automobiles. Unlike the spray-on technique, this process penetrates the leather and actually dyes the entire piece, inside and out. While vat-dyed leathers are harder to damage with oils, they are not completely safe from the natural secretions of your body, and should be cared for whenever you notice a build up. Absolutely no smoking should be tolerated in your car. This dangerous habit can do more than burn unsightly holes in your precious leather; the smoke can also cause unnatural yellowing of your ceiling fibers. Another obvious thing to avoid is setting metal items on the seats, such as wallet chains, car keys and zippers. These items all have rigid edges that can cause irrevocable rips and scratches. Use your head and be aware of what comes in contact with your leather to ensure its lasting beauty.”

 

[FliGi7]

Leather Cleaning

Here, I will simply list various sources’ documented techniques and products for cleaning automotive leather (or their proprietary leather they produce/use).


LeatherWorld Technologies
http://www.leatherworldtech.com/

“Always pre-test in an inconspicuous area for colorfastness with a soft, clean, white lint-free cloth. Gently apply leather cleaner product. If color appears on cloth, contact us on our web site for further instructions.

To clean, apply leather cleaner to a sponge, squeezing to create foam. Apply foam to soiled area in a gentle circular motion. Don’t Rub always use gentle circular motion for all applications and apply in light coats. Wait a few minutes, then blot with a soft, clean white lint-free cloth and reapply if area is heavily soiled. In some cases leather can be extremely dry and the leather cleaner will dissipate quickly. If this is the case, add 25% distilled water to the leather cleaner. This gives the dampening effect you need to release the soil for cleaning. Leather will dry naturally, but to speed up drying time, a hair dryer held at a 300 angle can be used.

Routine cleaning is recommended to aid in the longevity of your leather products. A complete cleaning twice a year, followed by a conditioner and protectant, will maintain the finish and increase durability. For leather in high traffic areas, it is recommended that leather cleaner be used during your routine dusting by applying with a soft, clean, white lint-free cloth as if dusting the leather.”


Top of the Line Detailing Products
http://www.topoftheline.com

“(P)-PROTECTED/COATED: This type of leather is also known as "coated" or "painted". These leathers have aspects of a natural finish, but more uniform in appearance. The heavier pigments can create much darker colors. Protected leather has a substantial finish applied that makes the leather more resistant to heavy wear and stains. The heavier pigments and finish do affect the softness and scent, so these leathers often don't feel or smell like real leather.

To determine if your leather is Protected, lightly scratch the surface to see if it leaves a lighter color, or if cleaners and conditioners remain on the surface. Liquids will not penetrate Protected leather.

These leathers will also have a sheen or even shine. It's like looking at wood with a lacquer finish opposed to a wipe-on oil finish. These leathers are more common in the automotive industry.

Leather Cleaning (Furniture, Automotive & Clothing)

can be divided into two groups. A "Cleaner" will clean the surface without affecting the leather's finish. A "Remover" deep cleans and can remove the finish if applied too aggressively.”


Leather Master Soft Cleaner
“Leather Soft Cleaner is a mild, water-based cleaner that will not affect the Leather’s original properties or finish. It is designed to remove most soiling as well as water-based stains.

Most cleaners contain solvents like alcohol or mineral spirits. These types of cleaners will definitely clean, but also will attack either the finish or dry the leather out.

Leather Soft Cleaner is solvent free and works without removing the finish or harming the Leather. The only way Leather Soft Cleaner could remove color is under the following circumstance.

- If the Leather is not colorfast to any type of liquid. You can test this by wetting a soft, white cloth with distilled or purified water and wiping the Leather. If color comes off on the cloth from only purified water, the Leather Soft Cleaner or anything else will also remove color.

Application Instructions:

- Shake bottle well before using.
- Pour Leather Soft Cleaner onto a small sponge and squeeze to produce a white foam. The foam aerates the cleaner to prevent overwetting the leather and it produces a "lifting" effect.
- Work the foam well into the surface where the soil is heavier. The sponge has a drawing effect to pull out the stain, and acts as a cushion to protect the leather while rubbing.
- Wipe excess foam and soil with a soft cotton cloth.
- Make sure the leather is dry before applying Protection Creams. This can be done with a hair dryer in cold weather.
- For heavy soil or dye transfer from blue jeans, you will need the more concentrated, "Leather Strong Cleaner".

Leather Soft Cleaner may also be used weekly. Lightly wet a soft cotton cloth or diaper and wipe the surface. This removes dust and body oil accumulation.”


Leather Master Hard Cleaner
“There is no competing product to Leather Master's Strong Cleaner. It is the most powerful leather cleaner on the market. When other cleaners won't do the job, this one will. The water based formula removes ground in soil and water based stains. It can even remove blue jean transfer with a few light, repeated applications.

This product is used exactly the same as the "Leather Soft Cleaner", but its action is more intensive due to a greater concentration (twice the amount) of active ingredients.

Remember to apply Strong Cleaner with a sponge to create a cleaning foam. Wipe away excess residue with a soft cloth. This product does not remove the finish or coating from any OEM leathers or those prepared with proper rub resistance standards.

Application Instructions:

- Shake well before using.
- Pour cleaner onto a sponge and squeeze until it produces a foam.
- Check for color fastness on a hidden area prior to full usage.
- Agitate the surface with the foamy sponge.
- Wipe off with a soft, clean absorbent terry or microfiber towel to lift soil and stains.
- Let dry for 30 minutes. (Blue Jean dye may require more than one application.)
- Apply Leather Protection Cream.”


Autogeek
http://www.autogeek.net

“What Is Proper Leather Care?

Leather surfaces, are just like beautiful delicate skin. Leather must be carefully cleansed before it can be properly conditioned. The discriminating connoisseur always selects Pinnacle Leather and Vinyl Cleaner for the last word in quality Leather Care.

The Two-Step Solution!

Pinnacle Leather and Vinyl Cleaner, a pure cleaner, free of petroleum solvents, silicone oils or gloss agents, penetrates deep into every pore. Especially when applied with the gentle agitating action of a Cobra Microfiber Application Pad, or a Leather and Vinyl Scrub Brush. Agitation, not scrubbing that is the key. This agitation opens pores and allows moisture to penetrate deep, cleansing, lubricating and moisturizing. WARNING! Often inexpensive brands of leather cleaners and gloss agents contain petroleum distillates, silicon or silicon oils which cling to the surface and then are wiped onto clothing. Worse, they leave a greasy inferior finish. First, you must apply a quality Leather Cleaner like Pinnacle Leather & Vinyl Cleaner. Then after a thorough cleansing, your Leather is ready for step two, application of a quality conditioner like market leaders, Wolfgang Leather Care Conditioner or Pinnacle Leather Conditioner. These conditioners are calibrated to nourish and moisturize. They are engineered at a molecular level, to absorb deep into the cell fibers. Allowing these fibers to retain their resilience, and thereby inhibit premature aging. Proper conditioning allows fibers to retain flexibility. This prevents the dryness that leads to brittle cracked surfaces.

Many popular conditioners like Lexol Spray Leather Conditioner and the product recommended especially for the Bentley, Jaguar and Rolls lines, Connolly Hide Care Conditioner are pH balanced, have stain repellants, and waterproofing agents to protect your beautiful interior from accidents. The Wolfgang Leather Care Cockpit Kit contains all the tools you’ll need, AND it is pH balanced. If you only want the best for both Leather and Vinyl, there is simply no better comprehensive choice for ”state of the art” cleaners, conditioners and applicators than our specially packaged, Pinnacle Concours Interior Kit.”

 

[FliGi7]

Superior Auto Care
http://www.superiorautocare.com

“Proper Leather Cleaning Techniques

1. Clear your workspace. Before applying any products to your seats, always vacuum your interior to dislodge any surface lint that might inhibit your products from getting to the leather. Surface dirt can hide in between the grooves of your leather seats, and by wiping without vacuuming; you may create friction by rubbing the dirt across the leather as you clean it. This unnecessary friction could develop a rash of tiny blemishes. Play it safe and vacuum first, then go at it with a damp towel to remove anything left behind.

2. Turn up the Heat. Although leather is essentially dead, it still responds to heat the way human skin does. By running your heater for a few minutes before you clean you are actually causing the pores to open for deeper penetration. Likewise, some products work under this same principle. Check the label to see if your product of choice recommends using it at an enhanced temperature. If you live in Florida, like us at Superior Car Care, you can let the tropical climate enhance the temperature of your products and leather all on its own.

3. Select a Section. Alkaline cleaners and acidic cleaners are as dangerous to leather as they are to your skin. Always select one that is generally pH neutral, and/or water based. Plain saddle soap is out of the question- its high alkalinity content is terrible for leather upholstery. An example of a quality product would be Pinnacle Leather & Vinyl Cleaner. You can’t go wrong with Lexol Leather Cleaner either, as both are non-alkaline and non-drying. Regardless, you should apply both of these products in the shade to prevent premature evaporation, and in a well ventilated area unless otherwise noted.

4. Tools, hands-down. When you apply your leather cleaner you should always rely on the dependability of tools designed for the specific task at hand. Cobra Microfiber Applicators will help your product permeate deeper into your leather for better cleaning. Without scrubbing, your cleaner may not completely remove dirt. Having two applicators can come in handy, so that you can apply cleaner and conditioner without accidentally cross contaminating.”


Proper Auto Care
http://www.properautocare.com/

“Proper Leather Care

Leather should be routinely cleaned using a ph-balanced, non alkaline cleaner such as Lexol Leather Cleaner or BLACKFIRE Interior Cleaner. Cleaners loosen and lift grease and grime (like French Fry fingerprints) without drying the leather or affecting the hides natural ph.

To properly clean leather:
- Spray cleaner to a wet applicator pad and apply to one area at a time (i.e. a seat back).
- Gently agitate the surface with a leather cleaning brush. This removes stubborn grime and will not harm the leather.
- Use a clean, damp sponge to rise the leather.
- Towel dry with a clean terry cloth towel.

In addition to regular cleaning, leather requires replacement of natural oils. (The smell of leather comes from oils evaporating out of the hide.) If these oils are not replaced, the leather will dry out, deteriorate and crack. Once every month or two, use a leather conditioner to restore these natural oils and keep the leather soft and supple. Leather conditioners with rich combinations of natural oils like BLACKFIRE High-UV Leather Conditioner are especially beneficial on neglected, abused or aged leathers that have developed "character lines".”


Leather Magic
http://www.leathermagic.com

“Cleaning, Conditioning and Protecting your Leather

Before choosing any maintenance products for your leather, it is important that you determine the type of leather that you have (see "Types of Leather" above). Using any product not specifically designed for your leather application can cause staining and permanent damage to the leather. All leather should be regularly cleaned, conditioned and protected about every three months. If the leather is subjected to "high use", it may be necessary to perform this routine maintenance more often.

All "Top Coated", Finished or "Protected" leather may be cleaned quite easily by using our Leather Magic Leather Cleaner. Most dirt, oils, food/beverage stains and other types of soiling may be cleaned, without damaging the finish of the leather, or causing hardness or stiffening of the leather. Cleaning of the leather should be followed by conditioning, using our Leather Magic Leather Conditioner. This will replenish the natural oils and lubricants that have been diminished by everyday use and cleaning.
"Naked", Aniline, Suede or "NuBuck" type leather must be treated differently. This type of leather will stain very easily and requires that different formulations of product be used to avoid staining or damage of the leather. To clean this type of leather, use our Leather Magic "NuBuck" Leather Cleaner. This product has been designed especially for the finer, more absorbent types of leather and will not cause further staining of the areas while providing the strongest cleaning agent available. Leather Magic NuBuck Leather Conditioner should be applied after cleaning, to replenish the oils that have been lost through everyday use.”


Lanes Professional Car Products
http://www.lanescarproducts.com/

“How To Clean Leather Seats

Cleaning Leather Seats Can Keep Your Leather Looking New
Leather seats get soiled and dirty overtime. If you do not clean your leather it will show. Fortunately, keeping leather seats clean is easy with the right leather care products. Lane’s® auto leather cleaners are designed to clean soiled leather safely and effectively.
Clean one leather seat at a time and work in sections. This is accomplished by spraying Lane’s® leather cleaner evenly on one section of your leather seat. Take a soft brush and make a circular motion. As you will see all of the soiled dirt will rise to the top of the seat. Wipe clean with a towel and remove soiled dirt from leather. Repeat this leather cleaning process until the entire seat has been cleaned.

Note from Lane: Leather seats collect dirt and oil from your skin. In time your leather seats will become stained, soiled and faded. Unlike other internet companies that offer you a list of products to try, I am offering you Lane’s® Leather Cleaner that works; after all we detail cars for a living!”

Application of their leather conditioner just states “Apply Lane’s® Liquid Leather Conditioner with a clean, dry cloth and allow to dry.”

 

[FliGi7]

Roden Leather Company
http://www.rodenleather.com/

“Genuine leather requires very little care. Dust it regularly, and minor spots can be washed off. Use lukewarm water and mild soap, but nothing abrasive. Work up some suds and go over the surface with a soft cloth. Rinse off any soap film with clean water and toweling. It may dry dull, but normal gloss can be restored by rubbing with clean toweling. These instructions apply to finished leather only, not to any suede. Never use furniture polish, oil, varnish, ammonia, or cleaning solvents. Leather will last a lifetime if given the care it deserves.”


Automedia
http://www.automedia.com

“Cleaning Leather Upholstery

Leather upholstery has always been synonymous with luxury. Leather costs more than cloth or other textiles used in cars, but it's actually more durable than most of these fabrics. With the possible exception of vinyl, leather is usually easier to clean than other upholstery materials. In fact, some detail shops even charge less to de-gunk leather and vinyl than fabrics.

Do-it-yourselfers have two options for attacking stains on leather upholstery: using household products or a commercial cleaner formulated especially for the job. Either way, the sooner the stain is addressed, the better—the less the stain soaks in, the easier it is to remove.

Regardless of products used, begin by blotting liquid spots with paper towels. Adhesive boo-boos such as gum usually need to be scraped off using cardboard or a dull blade. (Chewing gum lifts off easier when hardened with ice.)

If you want to try household cleaners, begin with a solution of water and "neutral" soap (one with a pH factor of 7). Massage the solution onto the spot with a soft, terrycloth towel, turning the towel often. Wipe the area dry immediately; use a hairdryer held away from the seat if necessary to avoid getting a ring where the soap and water were applied. If the stain still lingers, use a more-aggressive solution of four parts water to one part ammonia and repeat the process. Be cautious about attacking stains all at once to preserve the upholstery's protective layer.

Some people prefer to cut straight to commercial products; others seek them out after household cleaners fail. The accompanying Steps show how to use a leather-cleaning product to remove a stain. Note that the physical process is similar, regardless of which products are used.”



Leather Conditioning

Superior Auto Care

“Conditioning your leather

Conditioning products require a different set of procedures to ensure their proper use. While most products are applied to, and wiped off of your vehicle almost immediately, conditioners needs about 20 minutes to do their work. It should be noted that 90% of all leathers are coated with chemical preservatives. A conditioner is necessary to penetrate the breathable parts of your interior and restore it to maximum showroom presence. Follow these final instructions to get the best out of your leather conditioning experience.

1. Dry before you Apply. Ensure that your leather has been wiped dry before applying any leather conditioners. Although water won’t damage your leather, (Leathers are dyed in water and naturally repel it) conditioners work best on dry leather. Massaging the product into the leather is easy, because top of the line restoratives like Pinnacle Leather Conditioner contain a medley of natural oils. These oils expedite the process by smoothing the transition of conditioner to leather by allowing deeper saturation.

2. Wipe and Wait. There is no way to over-saturate leather, because there is a natural limit to how much product it can absorb. If you have applied too much, the excess leather conditioner will sit on the surface of the leather long after the rest has been absorbed. With a damp towel, be sure to wipe away this additional conditioner, or re-apply it to another un-touched area. When all is well, let your conditioner sit for 15 to 20 minutes without disturbing it.

3. Testing, 1-2-3. One must be careful in choosing the proper products. If you are unsure about a product, test it first in an inconspicuous place. If the product is adverse to the leather strip in any way, can it and ban it. Although most of these products work with surprising effectiveness, one can never be too sure until you try it.

4. Avoid Sunburns. Like human skin, leather can be easily damaged by the powerful UV rays of the sun. Those most commonly affected vehicles are convertibles with leather interiors or those who drive under intense temperatures. Defend your leather from these hot circumstances with 303 Aerospace Protectant. When alternated with your conditioner it will provide excellent protection from the sun and keep your leather enviously decadent.

5. Save Time. Leather care pros worldwide agree that leather requires both cleaning and conditioning to maintain it’s healthy appearance, and many 1-step products achieve both of these goals while saving you time and money. While some may be skeptical of these ‘all-in-one’ products that have been gaining popularity lately, technological breakthroughs have made it possible to deliver quality results in half the time. Pinnacle Leather Cleaner & Conditioner is ideal for the enthusiast who wants a quality job in less time.”


Proper Auto Care

“To properly condition leather:

Apply conditioner to a damp applicator pad and wipe all leather surfaces in the vehicle.

Allow 15 to 20 minutes for the oils to penetrate and give a final wipe down with a clean towel. Don't be alarmed if there is conditioner on the wipe towel. The leather will only absorb as much conditioner as it needs.

If you own a convertible with a leather interior, you should consider additional sunscreen protection. Leather conditioners typically do not offer any UV screening. The best solution is to alternate between a leather conditioner and 303 Protectant. One month I'll use a conditioner to keep the leather healthy and supple. the following month, I'll mist and wipe the leather with 303 protectant to add UV protection.”


Leather Magic

“Protection from staining of the finish of the leather may be accomplished in several ways.
Our Leather Magic Leather Protection Cream will provide a protective "shield" over the surface of your leather to prevent staining from water, oils, alcohol, body oils and everyday soiling that occurs. This protection should be applied when your leather is first purchased, followed by re-application with regular, routine maintenance. Leather Magic Fabric Guard is also highly recommended for use on this type of leather. Fabric Guard will provide a similar protective shield in a convenient spray application. Protection from fading, due to exposure to direct sunlight may be dramatically reduced using our Leather Magic UV Protectant. This product reduces the amount of UV light that reaches the surface of the leather. Long term exposure to UV rays will cause fading of the color as well as premature drying and hardening of the leather. "Semi-Aniline" leather will require the same cleaning and maintenance products as full Aniline, but the application procedure will vary somewhat.

The correct steps in complete treatment of any type of leather is as follows:
1. Thoroughly clean the surface of the leather using the appropriate cleaner for your particular type of leather.
2. Condition the leather to replace lost oils and lubricants by using the appropriate Leather Conditioner for your particular type of leather.
3. Apply Leather Magic Fabric Guard or Protection Cream to provide a protective “shield” on the surface of the leather to reduce soiling and staining and help make future maintenance much easier.
4. Apply Leather Magic UV Protectant to the surface of the leather to reduce fading and deterioration caused by direct exposure to sunlight.”

 

[FliGi7]

Conclusions

As you can see, there are various methodologies and products for cleaning automotive leather interiors (not to mention the different types of leather available). Leather cleaning methodologies typically involve application/agitation by soft bristle brush or soft MF (Microfiber) media. Leather conditioning methodologies typically involve application by hand so as to prevent product waste by absorption into the application media. Leather cleaning products tend to involve pH balanced cleaners (some with foaming action). Leather conditioning products tend to involve oil-based conditioners that may have UV protectants built in to help prevent fading.

As to which method or product is “best” for cleaning and conditioning leather - that will be left up to the reader.



Things to Keep In Mind

Please bear in mind that many companies often promote particular products based on sponsorship or some other bias. These products may or may not be the most effective or safe for use in leather cleaning and conditioning so please use your best common sense and education in picking proper products.

Additionally, if you see a general trend in the application or type of product being used, it does not necessarily mean that it is the best. Trends are easy to form and hard to break. It is very easy to get “tunnel vision” for a particular product or methodology but I strongly urge you to keep in mind that nothing is absolute (remember, the world used to be flat). This is not to say that all trends are right or wrong, but again, healthy questioning and your best personal judgment based on extensive research and education is always the best practice.


**Notes:
Constructive criticism and discussion is welcome. If you are going to endorse a “best” practice, make sure it is not based on hearsay and is based on factual knowledge and personal experience.

Please do not quote a “pro” detailer, as that phrase has little to no meaning anymore due to the amount of hacks that exist and give the good detailers a bad reputation.

Referencing or quoting something with substantial backing (meaning you didn’t find it as a single result from a Google search, it doesn’t start with a “I heard…” followed by no other set of resource(s), it isn’t a “I do this and it’s right simply because you can’t prove it wrong”, etc.) is perfectly fine - i.e. threads from forums or online knowledge bases containing methodologies or products with results that are replicated or overwhelmingly consistent across communities and not just within a small group of persons.

There will be NO bashing of online communities or groups based on hearsay. If you are going to claim that a group or person is wrong, it will need to be backed up by tangible references and facts.

If there are any discrepancies or incorrect information, please let me know and I will fix it. I am not a leather “expert” and do not purport to be. This is simply a compilation of existing practices and products from various leather and leather product manufacturers and suppliers.

 

[FliGi7]

As promised. This is my leather compilation. Let the discussions commence.

 

[LBVdubin]

wow, nice compilation of techniques and thanks for putting in the time :thumbsup:

 

[FliGi7]

Glad to help.