Sadly, there is no automatic machine to clean the leather seats and surfaces in your vehicle. If you’d rather not shell out for someone to do it for you, here are a few tips to take the best possible care of your leather.
You’re cleaning the exterior
Almost all leather in cars is coated with some form of protective layer. If yours is not, may we ask what life in the 1% is like and if you enjoy living on Billionaire Island?
In any case, you can use any of the cleaning products at the auto parts store, though we’d caution against using the bottom-dollar product. Reputable products use a gentle oil to remove impurities and deposits that collect on leather surfaces.
Experts recommend vacuuming first to remove dirt, and avoiding petroleum- and silicon-based cleaners. A good cleaner will leave you with a low gloss—nothing too shiny.
Warm it up
Just like your face, leather relaxes and opens its pores in warmer temperatures. Open pores mean the cleaner and conditioner will penetrate deeper. For this reason cleaning your leather in the spring and summer is ideal, but a heated garage (or even a pre-warmed car) will do in the fall and winter.
No saddle soap
While it’s tempting to use the same product on your car as you do on your shoes, all leather is not alike. Saddle soap is good for shoes, but not good for leather seating because of its high alkalinity content.
No more open-top
Again, leather is like your face. That means avoiding sunlight and exposure to the elements to keep it in top form. Keep those windows rolled up and don’t leave the top down (if you have a convertible) while parked.
Those are our best recommendations. What would you add to our list? Tell us on Facebook. If you’d like some help attempting the above, stop by our service center for advice or a consult.
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