It's easy to overlook the interior of the car, especially the seats. However, keeping the leather upholstery in top condition can really improve the look of your car. You need to remove surface dirt, clean the leather and treat it with an emollient regularly. Although it may seem like a difficult task, following the instructions in this article will not have any problems, especially if you carry out maintenance operations frequently.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Cleaning
Step 1. Check if there are any damaged areas with holes
If so, be very careful that neither water nor detergents get into it.
Check the car's maintenance manual. Before cleaning or applying any type of product, always refer to the instructions for your vehicle. There may be precise indications on how to treat leather interiors and what should be avoided
Step 2. Vacuum the seats
Use a vacuum cleaner or wet vacuum to remove larger dirt particles. Be very careful not to scratch the leather of the upholstery. You can also use compressed air to loosen any debris stuck between the seat slots.
Step 3. Remove surface dirt
If the seats are really dirty, you will need to remove the layer of dirt that has accumulated over time; even seats that look clean may not actually be. Spray a microfiber cloth with detergent and use it to scrub the seats. Make sure it's really microfiber, as this is the most suitable fabric for this type of cleaning. Use a leather cleaner, saddle soap, or other mild product.
You can also use a commercial cleaner designed specifically for leather seats or make your own. If so, mix 1 part vinegar with 2 part flaxseed oil in a bowl or spray bottle
Step 4. For a deeper clean, use a brush
Spray the cleaner directly on the seats and use a soft bristle brush to scrub the leather. This way you lift the dirt and bring it to the surface.
If the seats are punctured, do not spray the cleaner directly on them. Instead, spray it on the brush and scrub it with it. Finally, go over all the surfaces with the cloth
Step 5. Clean the seats
Use the dry, clean cloth and wipe the interior to remove any detergent residue. You will notice that the cloth will also hold some dirt, grease and grime.
Step 6. Wash the seats regularly
While it's best to do a regular clean every month or so, commit to a thorough treatment every 3-4 months. If the interiors are light in color, increase the frequency or intervene as soon as you notice traces of dirt.
Part 2 of 2: Treatment
Step 1. Choose a water-based skin conditioner with a neutral pH
Look for a quality product that does not contain petroleum derivatives, silicone or waxes. The goal of the treatment is to restore the natural oils of the leather, so rely only on the highest quality emollients, the cheap ones stick to the skin and leave a greyish finish.
Step 2. Test in a hidden corner
Choose a low-exposed area of the seats and apply a small amount of emollient. Rub it with a sponge or cloth. Make sure the product does not stain or discolor the seats.
Step 3. Treat the insides
Apply the emollient and use the cloth or sponge to "massage" the leather surface and let the product penetrate. Do not overdo the quantity, otherwise it will remain on the surface of the seats making them greasy and slippery. If in doubt, wipe them with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess product.
Follow the instructions on the package carefully
Step 4. Park your car in the shade or in the garage overnight
Allow the product to work away from sunlight, however you must let it rest for at least an hour.
Step 5. Polish the seats with the cloth
Once the emollient has penetrated into the leather, move on to the polishing phase by making circular movements. This action also allows you to eliminate excess product.
Don't over-treat the seats with the softener. Most leather upholstery needs this type of cleaning a few times a year
Advice
Cleaning and softening leather seats is not a long job and should be repeated every three months
Warnings
- Avoid using household cleaners on leather seats, even if they are diluted. The chemical elements present dry the leather, breaking and tearing it. They also eliminate the protective layer making the material opaque and subject to stains.
- Avoid contact between some detergents and other parts of the machine. Depending on the product and the material of the car, you may cause damage.
