Maintaining the inside of your vehicle should be just as important as protecting its exterior. One of the best ways to keep the interior of your car looking great is to use a leather cleaner and conditioner on a regular basis. High quality cleaners and conditioners keep fine leather looking great for years to come.
As you may have already discovered, there are dozens of different options available for treating leather in your vehicle. To help make it as easy as possible to choose the right one, we have compiled a list of the top ten best leather cleaners and conditioners for your vehicle.
- How to Choose the Best Leather Cleaner & Conditioner
- Top 10 Best Leather Conditioners and Cleaners 2024
- 1. Best Overall Leather Conditioner and Cleaner: Chemical Guys Leather Care Kit
- 2. Best Premium Leather Treatment: KevianClean Leather Conditioner and Cleaner
- 3. Best Leather Conditioner: Leather Honey Leather Conditioner
- 4. Best Leather Cleaner: Leather Honey Leather Cleaner
- 5. Best Budget Leather Treatment: Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
- 6. Best All-in-One Leather Treatment Kit: Lexol Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Kit
- 7. Best Faux Leather Cleaner: TriNova Leather Cleaner
- 8. Best Faux Leather Conditioner: TriNova Leather Conditioner
- 9. Best Leather Treatment for Sensitive Skin: Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner
- 10. Easiest Leather Treatment to Use: Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
- The Complete Guide to Leather Cleaning and Conditioning
How to Choose the Best Leather Cleaner & Conditioner
Owners of cars with leather interiors know that although the surface can be stylish and comfortable, it is also prone to drying, cracking, and peeling over time. Many elements can cause damage to your interior, including the sun, fluctuating temperatures, and normal wear and tear. Like your own skin, leather interiors must be maintained to keep them looking their best.
Leather cleaners and conditioners remove dirt, debris, and oil from the seats of your vehicle, which you might not even realize is there. Leather conditioner also gives your car’s interior the nourishing moisture needed to protect against humidity and the sun’s UV rays, keeping your car as pristine as the moment it rolled out of the showroom.
Features to Consider in a Leather Conditioner and Cleaner:
It is important to consider a few aspects of each cleaner and conditioner before making a purchase. These elements were what we looked at when finding the best leather conditioner and cleaner on the market:
- Type: Whether you need a leather cleaner that won’t harm the supple surface, a leather conditioner to keep it feeling soft, or both, we’ve got you covered.
- Composition: We want to see how effective a product is and what ingredients go into each product. Although no leather conditioner or cleaner is food-safe, we’ve only included products on this list that are as safe as they get.
- Ease of Cleaning and Conditioning: We want to know how easily the leather conditioner and cleaner can be applied and what the process looks like.
- Level of Protection: We examined how much the leather cleaners and conditioners protect your car’s interior surfaces. This will show us how long the protection lasts, and if it can stand up to the harsh conditions of your vehicle.
There are a few different types of leather conditioners and cleaners that are best suited for different uses. It is important to know which type of leather your car’s interior has in order to select the best leather cleaner and conditioner. To be sure you have purchased the right one for your car, test the leather cleaner and conditioner on an inconspicuous spot no one can see before using. Also, be sure to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual before making any decisions. Our list below will show you the best rated leather cleaners and conditioners to help you care for your car.
Top 10 Best Leather Conditioners and Cleaners 2024
1. Best Overall Leather Conditioner and Cleaner: Chemical Guys Leather Care Kit
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Cleaner and conditioner
Composition
The Chemical Guys Cleaner and Conditioner has everything you need to safely and effectively take care of your car’s interior, as well as many other surfaces. The composition of the product is pH balanced to clean and preserve your leather. The Chemical Guys Cleaner is colorless and nearly odorless and penetrates the pores of your leather to lift and remove dirt and oils. This product, which has a very subtle leather scent, contains Vitamin E to nourish your leather and help reduce UV damage.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
The Chemical Guys Cleaner is the first step to restoring and preserving your car’s interior. First, clean off as much debris off of the surfaces as possible. Next, spray the cleaner directly on a leather brush or clean microfiber cloth, and then start to rub the surfaces until you see the dirt and grime begin to lift away. As a spray, the cleaner is very easy to use while still being extremely effective. Once complete, take a clean and dry towel and buff off any excess cleaner left behind. Make sure to shake the bottle really well and then apply a few lines to an applicator and spread evenly onto the leather surface. If you prefer a glossier finish, they recommend leaving the conditioner on for longer. If not, wipe off any excess conditioner.
Level of Protection
Chemical Brothers know that it is important to protect your leather. Washing and moisturizing your leather interior regularly is essential to the upkeep of your car. When you use not only the cleaner but the conditioner as well, you will restore your car’s leather interior to restore and protect its surface. This cleaner can tackle any grime, stain, or even cigarette smoke odor while maintaining the soft and supple look you need to keep the interior looking sharp. The conditioner also provides UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Like most leather cleaners, it should be used at least every 6 months.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Tackles stains while leaving leather like new again
- Protects leather with vitamin E
Cons
- Cleaner and conditioner need to be applied separately
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Conditioner and cleaner
Composition
KevianClean Leather Conditioner and Cleaner is made with organic ingredients. It is formulated to be pH-balanced so that it can provide the maximum levels of protection without harming your leather. The main ingredients are plant-based, making it a great option for those who care about the environment. This formula is also great because it doesn’t have the harsh ‘chemical’ smell that many other products on the market today seem to have. The unique formula goes on smoothly and does not leave any type of greasy residue because there is no silicone or oil.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
This product is easy to apply and goes on smoothly. You really don’t need a lot of this product to clean quite a large area. This means each bottle will last a long time. Depending on the size of your vehicle, it could last for several years when following their recommended schedule of cleaning and conditioning every six months. You will need to use your own cleaning cloth. They recommend using a microfiber cloth since that won’t leave any lint behind, but even a rag will do a good job. It can take some time to really rub the product into the leather, but the effort will result in great-looking leather that is soft and clean.
Level of Protection
KevianClean Leather Cleaner and Conditioner can restore and revive your car’s leather interior to keep it looking like it’s brand new again. Like other leather cleaners and conditioners, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions first, before application, and to test an inconspicuous spot. The KevianClean Cleaner and Conditioner will keep your leather against premature cracking, aging, and drying and should be used at least every 6 months. Heavier stains and grime may need several applications for the best result. The KevianClean company is also extremely responsive to questions and concerns with their product so you can feel at ease using their product.
Pros
- Plant-based product is child, environmentally, and pet friendly
- Cleaning and conditioning all in one product
- Effectively removes stains
Cons
- One of the more expensive leather cleaners & conditioners
3. Best Leather Conditioner: Leather Honey Leather Conditioner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Conditioner
Composition
Developed in 1968, Leather Honey is an American business run proudly by the grandchildren of the original inventor. The Leather Honey Leather Conditioner is made with a family kept recipe used for over 50 years, with no harsh chemicals, wax, or silicone added. All-natural and non-toxic, Leather Honey can rejuvenate new and old leather for up to 6 months. This conditioner will make your car interior look almost brand new while providing moisture to make the leather pliable and supple again. Leather Honey Leather Cleaner is sold separately, and it’s strongly recommended to use this product prior to conditioning the leather.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
Because Leather Honey has the consistency of its namesake, it is highly recommended to use a little of the product at a time. The leather conditioner is oil-based, so be sure to use gloves to prevent staining clothes or other surfaces. It can be applied with a gloved hand or a clean microfiber towel. It will take some effort to work it into the leather, so make sure you have the time to complete the task before starting. Once a surface of the interior has been properly cleaned, the leather will “drink” the conditioner right in. The company strongly encourages to use their Leather Honey Leather Cleaner prior to applying the Leather Conditioner.
Level of Protection
The Leather Honey Leather Conditioner guarantees with 100% satisfaction that your leather will be protected for 6 months after use. Since leather is like skin and needs to have frequent treatment, you will want to clean and condition every 6 months to keep your leather looking its best. The conditioner will leave leather surfaces like new again while protecting it from drying out and becoming brittle. The conditioner is water, rain, and snow repellent as well so no matter what region you live in it will keep your vehicle looking its best. There are no harsh chemicals added so you can be sure that your car’s interior will be safe for you and your family.
Pros
- All-natural and non-toxic
- Restores old leather to like-new conditions
- Easy to apply
- Leaves leather surfaces feeling supple and soft
Cons
- Can be difficult to spread evenly
4. Best Leather Cleaner: Leather Honey Leather Cleaner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Leather cleaner
Composition
Before using the Leather Honey Leather Conditioner, use this for best results. Leather Honey does not share the ingredients used in its leather cleaner, however, they do assure that the leather cleaner is made with all-natural, high-quality ingredients and is free of any toxic ingredients, animal products, silicone, and solvents. It is reassuring to know that you are using a safe cleaner, so no harm is brought onto your car’s leather interiors, and it is safe for the kids and pets as well.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
Like the conditioner, this brand of cleaner is much thicker than most other products on the market today. Because of this it can be more challenging and time consuming to complete the cleaning process. They even recommend diluting the Leather Honey Leather Cleaner (8 ounces of water for each ounce of product) to make it thinner and easier to use. This will also help to ensure the small bottle actually lasts quite a long time. Once you have the product properly diluted, you can rub it in using a clean cloth.
Level of Protection
Since a little goes a long way, the Leather Honey Leather Cleaner is meant to last. Leather Honey recommends using the product at least once every six months. Leather Honey has been using the same recipe for their products for over 50 years, and the product continues to ensure the clean and conditioning that your leather needs. While we don’t think that this cleaner is quite as good as the conditioner product from the same company, it is still going to be a very effective option. You can purchase both this cleaner and the conditioner product to help keep your vehicle looking its best.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Non-toxic ingredients are safe for use around pets & kids
- Made by a family-owned company for 50+ years
Cons
- You must dilute it with water before using
5. Best Budget Leather Treatment: Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Cleaner and conditioner
Composition
Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner is made up of six natural oils that moisturize, soften and restore your leather while the UVX-15 sunscreen protects it from the damaging effects of the sun. The formula is simple and non-toxic and leaves a fresh lemon scent that does not overpower your car’s interior. Although it is hard to find what the specific oils are in the composition, Weiman assures that there are no nut oils added to their Leather Cleaner and Conditioner. You can feel at ease knowing that you have purchased and applied a natural yet effective cleaning product that will keep your leather interior sparkling for years to come.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
It is important to follow your manufacturer’s instructions before using the product. First, test the Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner on a small, inconspicuous spot. Once you have tested it, clean off any excess dirt or grime of your interior. Shake the bottle well to mix up the various ingredients, then spray onto a soft, clean cloth. Apply the dampened cloth to the leather and buff until it brings out a natural shine. Be sure to blot your cloth on more serious stains and let the product sit on the spot for a few minutes before buffing it out. Weiman makes cleaning and conditioning your leather as easy as spray, buff, and go. The buffing process seems to need more elbow grease, otherwise the leather may appear cloudy.
Level of Protection
Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner contains sunscreen to protect your car’s leather interiors from the sun’s harsh UV rays. This cleaner and conditioner uses natural oils so there’s no greasy residue left behind. The product is safe for all leather areas of your car’s interior and will provide long-lasting protection after it has finished drying completely. When used properly, Weiman Leather Cleaner and Conditioner can give your leather interiors a shiny new look for months until it is ready to be cleaned and treated again. In most situations it is best to clean and condition approximately every six months.
Pros
- Fresh lemon scent that is not overwhelming
- Easy to use spray bottle
- Natural oils are used to treat the leather
- Improves leather by cleaning, restoring, and brightening the colors
- Very affordable
Cons
- Buffing takes more time and needs to be done thoroughly
6. Best All-in-One Leather Treatment Kit: Lexol Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Kit
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Conditioner and cleaner
Composition
The Lexol Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Kit is a safe and effective way to keep your car’s leather interior looking brand new for longer. The Lexol Cleaner has a neutral pH. It does not contain any type of alcohol, wax, oil, silicone, or other potentially harmful ingredients. This helps to ensure that there is no greasy residue left behind and will also keep your leather from drying out. When you combine both the Lexol Leather cleaner and conditioner, you can restore your supple and soft leather interior and keep them protected over time.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
First, be sure to clean your leather interior of any excess grime. Apply the Lexol Leather Cleaner sparingly to the damp microfiber sponge and gently clean off any dirt. Remember, a little goes a long way so do not put too much product down and spread evenly. After the cleaner, use the leather conditioner by pouring it sparingly onto the clean sponge and gently rub into your leather seats. Let sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean dry cloth.
Level of Protection
While the Lexol Leather Cleaner seems to be a bit milder and almost “too gentle” for leather, both the cleaner and conditioner are great for car interiors that are not badly damaged or dirty. With more major damage or higher levels of grime, it is important to know that professional repairs and deep cleanings should be made before using. The Lexol Leather Cleaner and Conditioner will bring the color back into your leather surfaces and make them shine—though it can’t be used with synthetic leather, so make sure you know what you’re using it on. Your leather interior will look and feel soft and supple again and stay that way with regular maintenance every 6 months.
Pros
- Complete kit
- Easy to use
- Makes colors in leather bright again
- Comes with two microfiber sponges
Cons
- Does not work on any fake leather surfaces and may damage them
- Not effective for badly damaged leather
7. Best Faux Leather Cleaner: TriNova Leather Cleaner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Cleaner
Composition
TriNova Leather Cleaner uses a pH neutral, balanced formula with no added harsh chemicals to keep your car’s leather or leather-like surfaces safe from toxins. The ingredients used in the TriNova Leather Cleaner were chosen by leather experts to be able to safely clean your vehicle’s seats and leave them clean and shiny. The TriNova Leather Cleaner is also safe to use on many other surfaces such as vinyl, durablend, faux leather, and more. The cleaner can get deep into your leather and remove dirt, grime, stains, and debris while also keeping the surface preserved safely.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
TriNova Leather Cleaner is easy to use: simply spray on and rub it in. It is recommended that you take a dry towel to quickly wipe off any debris so that it doesn’t just get spread around. Once the larger dirt and debris is removed, begin using this product for the deep cleaning. It takes just 30-45 minutes for the leather to dry after you are done rubbing it in, which makes it very convenient. While the TriNova Leather Cleaner is essential to the upkeep of a leather interior, unfortunately it does not contain a leather conditioner, so you will have to purchase the leather conditioner separately. This can add more time and cost to the overall cleaning process of your leather.
Level of Protection
While it is clear that the TriNova Leather Cleaner can clean deep into old and new leather giving the “like new” shine it needs, it does not condition the leather. This means it won’t be left as soft and supple as many people will desire. To get the best results, you will need to purchase the separate TriNova Leather Conditioner and use it after you have completed the cleaning process. When used together, you can be confident that the leather in your vehicle is clean and protected so you can enjoy it for months to come.
Pros
- Easy application
- pH balanced formula so it is safe to use
- Brings back the texture and luster of your leather
Cons
- Does not condition, need to buy conditioner separately
8. Best Faux Leather Conditioner: TriNova Leather Conditioner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Conditioner
Composition
It is best if you use this product directly after the TriNova Leather Cleaner. The TriNova Leather Conditioner is the second step in the process of maintaining your leather’s smooth and soft glow. This product will rejuvenate the leather interior of your car, new and old. This product is non-toxic and designed specifically for use on natural leather products. TriNova promises a 365-day guarantee with their product, so if you are not satisfied, they can make it right.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
An applicator is included with the TriNova Leather Conditioner, so you will not have to scrounge around for something to use for application. Before use, be sure to clean off any excess dirt or debris from your leather surfaces with a damp cloth or simply clean the area with the TriNova leather cleaner. Make sure you shake the bottle of conditioner before using it to get all the ingredients properly mixed up so they will be most effective. Applying this conditioner is relatively easy and just requires you to rub it in, being careful to ensure you apply it evenly. After applying the conditioner, make sure to allow it to dry for at least 30-45 minutes, after which you can gently buff the surface with a dry cloth. For dry and cracked areas, however, you can apply it up to once per month to restore the area and keep it looking its best.
Level of Protection
Like most leather cleaners and conditioners, it is best to use a little and make it go a long way. TriNova Conditioner has shown that it can restore old leather interiors and make them look new again. It is recommended to use it at least once a month, but your leather could probably go for longer between conditionings, especially with lower usage. TriNova Conditioner can even help prevent the sun’s harmful UV rays from damaging your leather’s surface. Combined, the TriNova Cleaner and Conditioner can restore and protect your car’s leather interior on a regular basis and give it life for years to come.
Pros
- Can restore old leather and other surfaces to new conditions
- Easy application
- Reasonably priced, affordable
- Applicator included
Cons
- Not effective unless used with the TriNova Cleaner
9. Best Leather Treatment for Sensitive Skin: Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Cleaner and conditioner
Composition
Featured on the Today Show, the Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner is the highest rated leather care product available on the market. Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner is made with 100% cosmetic-grade ingredients and is dermatologically tested and approved to not irritate skin when used. This leather conditioner and cleaner does not leave any greasy residue behind and does not have any odor. Leather CPR will give years to your car’s interior, reduce any scuffs, restore the leather back to its original beauty, and maintain a clean and conditioned interior for your car. Safe to use on your car’s interior (and also furniture, jackets, purses, and more), Leather CPR will bring your car’s interior back to life.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
Before using this product, be sure to clean off any grime buildup on your car’s leather interior first for the best results. Apply it with a sponge that is slightly dampened by warm water with a wiping motion on the surfaces of the leather. Once the product is applied, it works quickly and effectively. Your leather interior should not take longer than a few minutes to dry completely, which means you won’t need to avoid using your vehicle all day. With more damaged conditions, you may need to reapply a few times before seeing the best results. While this product does an excellent job at cleaning and caring for your leather, it may not soften it as much as desired.
Level of Protection
Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner not only revives and restores your car’s leather interior, it can keep it looking and feeling great for years to come. Since a little goes a long way with this product, you can continue to use Leather CPR regularly to keep your car’s interior like new. It is highly recommended to apply Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner to your interior leather at least every 6 months to maintain your car’s overall cleanliness and keep any future damage from occurring. Leather CPR also comes with UV protection, so your car’s leather interior will not be damaged by the sun’s UV rays.
Pros
- 100% cosmetics-grade ingredients so it will not irritate skin
- No residue or odor left behind
- Easy to use
Cons
- It may not soften hard or brittle leather as much as desired
10. Easiest Leather Treatment to Use: Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
Editor’s Rating:
Type: Conditioner and cleaner
Composition
Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner is an easy to use, sprayable leather product so you won’t have to give your leather interior surfaces too much elbow grease. Mr. Leather is made with all-natural ingredients and oils so you can be sure no harsh chemicals will be used on your leather surfaces, and it will be safe to use on your car’s interior. This cleaner and conditioner has triple-action formulation that does the work of three different products so you can clean, shine, and protect in one use.
Ease of Cleaning & Conditioning
Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner is simple to use. The spray bottle design prevents over-application of the product and makes sure it is applied evenly. After cleaning off your car’s interior leather, spray on surfaces and then wipe off with a clean, dry cloth or a paper towel. You will not have to rub or buff your leather afterwards. Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner also does not leave any oily residue behind, either. Like most leather cleaning products, application must be done correctly, otherwise you can do more harm to your leather interior than good. Mr. Leather cannot be used on cracked or worn leather, and it cannot be used on open-grain leathers such as suede, otherwise it may damage the leather.
Level of Protection
Mr. Leather Cleaner and Conditioner seems to be a jack of all trades when it comes to how it compares to other products. While it does a great job of cleaning and restoring the luster of your leather and other surfaces, it does not condition as well as some other products. Conditioning your leather is essential to continuing the protection of your car’s interior. It can sometimes leave leather surfaces seeming dried out afterwards. For the price and protection, Mr. Leather is a decent product but might need an accompanying conditioner to complete the job.
Pros
- Real leather scent
- Triple acting formula that cleans, shines, and protects
- Spray bottle makes for easy application
Cons
- Cannot be used on cracked or worn leather or open-grain leather
- More of a cleaner than a conditioner
The Complete Guide to Leather Cleaning and Conditioning
Cleaning the leather seats in your vehicle is going to require more than just soap and water. In fact, using just soap and water may actually do more harm than good. To keep leather looking its best, you need to use specially formulated cleaning and conditioning products that are made specifically for this purpose. The products listed above are among the best on the market today. No matter which of those you choose to use, it is important to make sure you understand how to perform the cleaning and why it needs to be done in order to get the best results.
Why You Need Leather Cleaner
Leather is not like most other materials. It requires a specific approach to maintain the look and feel that it is best known for. Because real authentic leathers are sourced from animals, your car’s leather interior should be treated as well as you might treat your own skin. You will need to have a regular process in order to retain its vitality.
Like skin, leather can become worn and damaged over time. Especially when used on car’s seats and interior, leather is prone to scratches, spills, and other damages over time with normal use. These everyday occurrences can make your car’s interior become faded, cracked, dried, and worn, which takes away from the overall value of your vehicle and makes it less pleasant to ride in.
Leather cleaners are able to help you to restore the luster of your car’s leather. These solutions not only can clean off the debris, oils, and dirt but can also do it in a way that protects your leather surfaces. After using a cleaner, a leather conditioner will revive the life of your car’s interior and leave it looking brand new again. These products also contain protectants so that your leather is safe from future spills, UV rays, and other inevitable things.
Types of Leather Cleaners
Since there are many different types of leather material, it is important to know which leather cleaner will work best for your car interior. The most common types of leather cleaners are:
- Pigment or Protected Leather Cleaners – These are generally all-around leather cleaners that are useful for the majority of cars, as most have leather that comes with a durable top coating typically made of silicone or polyurethane. A vast majority of car interiors use this type of leather, so all of the products on our list are suitable for pigmented and protected leathers.
- Aniline Leather Cleaners – Aniline leather is a higher end leather that is dyed with soluble dyes. They typically will not have a top coating that provides added protection. This makes these cleaners much more fragile compared to pigment or protected leather options because they are more difficult to maintain and often are susceptible to the effects of accumulated dirt, moisture, and oils. These things can lead to staining and damage over time. Aniline leather cleaners and conditioners also help to provide protective sealants. All of the leather conditioners on our list are suitable for aniline leather, though you may need to use a little bit more than you otherwise would in order to build a protective coat.
- Nubuck Leather Cleaners. Similar to aniline, nubuck leather is a higher end option that is used in many different situations. The cleaners are formulated specifically for this type of leather, which is typically going to be called distressed or suede leathers. These leathers are easier to maintain than aniline leathers, but still not as easy as maintaining pigmented or protected leather. Nubuck cleaners also contain protective sealants. As nubuck is nearly never used in cars, we haven’t included any nubuck leather cleaners on this list.
How to Clean Car Leather Interiors
If you take away anything from this article, it is important to remember that leather cleaner and conditioners must be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Always be sure to test the cleaner and conditioner in a small, inconspicuous spot before applying it to the rest of your car’s interior. This will help to ensure that if the product does happen to have a bad reaction with your vehicle’s leather, it won’t ruin the entire seat. This type of problem is quite rare, but it is better to be safe than sorry.
Before use, be sure to clean off any debris of your car’s interior surfaces that you can see. Then vacuum the entire car and wipe the leather with a damp cloth. Dry completely with paper towels or a clean cloth. All of this is to make sure things like food crumbs, sand, and other potentially abrasive debris doesn’t damage the leather while you are cleaning and conditioning it.
When using a commercial leather cleaning product, apply the instructed amount onto a moistened sponge or cloth. Work the sponge until it starts to foam. Apply the sponge over a small section, one single panel at a time. You can also use a soft bristled brush for application as well, especially for any stubborn areas. Once you have scrubbed an entire area, wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth to remove any residue left behind.
How to Protect Your Car’s Interior
Cleaning and conditioning your car’s leather interior can keep it looking great for years to come. Using the right conditioning product is just as important as the right cleaning product. In many cases a product will clean and condition together, but not always. Make sure to read the details of each product so you know whether you are getting a cleaner, conditioner, or both.
Even though leather is a strong material, it can get damaged over the course of time. Conditioning the leather regularly will help to add in the important moisture, and seal it in so that it remains soft and supple.
Things to Consider When Buying a Leather Cleaner and Conditioner
- Type of Leather – Knowing what type of leather your car’s interior is made of is crucial when deciding what leather cleaners and conditioners to buy. With a specific type comes a specific product best suited for it.
- pH Balanced Formulation – For any leather materials, it is important to know that the product has a neutral, balanced pH formulation. Leather that is treated by neutral pH levels will last longer and look better. Though all of the products were recommend have fairly neutral pH levels, those who want to be extra careful should consider something like the totally balanced KevianClean Leather Conditioner and Cleaner.
- Presence of Any Additives or Harsh Chemicals – Some leather cleaners and conditioners contain additives or other harsh chemicals to prolong its shelf life, extend the cleaning properties, and sometimes even enhance the color of your leather. The products on this list balance effectiveness and safety, and none of them should be unsafe when used as directed. If, however, you are especially concerned with environmental considerations, you may want to try the gentle, skin-safe Leather CPR Cleaner and Conditioner.
- Product Limitations – Most manufacturers make it very clear that their product may not be used on specific materials, such as suede or faux leather, while others, like the TriNova cleaner and TriNova Leather Conditioner are specifically designed to handle many different surfaces. Always be sure that you read all instructions and warnings before use.
- Ease of Application – If the cleaning and conditioning process is complicated, then you will not feel as motivated to regularly upkeep your leather. Make sure to find a leather cleaner and conditioner that is as simple as you need. Finding the right balance between easy to use and effective is important. Many people find that they have a thick cleaner or conditioner that takes a long time to apply for annual use, and then something much easier to apply on a monthly basis.
Essential Car Leather Care Tips
Owning a car with a leather interior can give a luxurious sense of pride and taking pride in the upkeep can also be rewarding as well. Be sure to follow these leather care tips so that your car can stay classy for as long as you own the vehicle:
- Protect It From Moisture – Like skin, your leather has pores and has a need to breathe. In extreme humidity, the excess moisture can cause your leather to rot. If it is too dry, your leather can also dry and crack. Take the necessary steps to prevent either of these things from damaging your leather, and always quickly clean up spills and leaks quickly.
- Consider Waterproofing Your Leather Once a Year – Even though leather is strong, adding a coat of waterproofing material at least once a year can help your leather stay protected against the effects of moisture or even accidental spills and leaks. This is in addition to the cleaning and conditioning products reviewed here. Of course, you need to make sure you are using a waterproofing product made specifically for leather.
- Avoid Exposing It to Direct Heat and Sunlight – The sun’s rays can speed up the fading of your car’s leather interior and increase the risk of drying and cracking. Invest in a good sunshade to help protect the car from harmful UV rays, and try to park in a shaded or covered area as much as possible.
- Test Every Product Before Using – As much as manufacturers claim their product to be safe, always test your leather in a small and inconspicuous spot first. Leave it for a full 24 hours, then see the results. If the results are good, then proceed with the cleaning and conditioning process.
- Choose Leather Products With Neutral or Natural Colors – Some leather products include dyes to help brighten any faded sections of the material. If your car’s leather is a different color than the dye, it might result in a patchy appearance. Choosing an uncolored product will bring out the natural color of your leather without damaging it.
- Clean It Regularly With a Damp Cloth – One of the best and easiest ways to keep your car’s leather interior clean is by regularly wiping (not soaking) with a dampened cloth to remove debris, dust, or other particles. Be sure to wipe dry afterwards. This is a great way to remove any abrasive items in between the full cleaning and conditioning that you need to do.
Keeping your leather interior classy and pristine can be easy with this helpful guide. Now you can successfully find and use the best product for you and keep your car luxurious for years to come.
