Cleaning leather can be quite complicated, but treating white leather is a real challenge. However, with the right techniques, using liquid and solid cleaners, you'll be able to keep all your leather items - from sofas to Elvis Presley's costume - in perfect condition.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: with Liquid Cleaners
Step 1. Make a homemade liquid cleaner
Not only is it easy and inexpensive, but it's also safer on the skin. Many synthetic products, especially petroleum-based ones, can actually stain, fade or alter the quality of the material. Here are some cleaning blends you can make yourself using common household products:
- Mix 1 part of mild soap (the kind you use to wash your face or clothes) with 8 parts of warm water.
- Mix 2 parts of vinegar with 1 part of flaxseed oil.
Step 2. Apply the product
It is important not to pour too much directly on the skin, otherwise it could excessively soak the material and cause water stains. Instead, try spreading the cleaner using a spray bottle or applying it to a microfiber cloth and not directly on the leather to be treated.
Step 3. Rub gently or in very light circular motions to remove dust and dirt
Be careful not to scrub aggressively, or you may be setting the dirt even deeper than removing it.
Step 4. Do not rinse, but repeat the treatment
Actually, it is not necessary to rinse off household cleaners, but you can buff the surface a little to give the material an even shine; if at the end the leather is still dirty, wait some time and repeat the procedure.
Method 2 of 2: with non-liquid cleaners
Step 1. Use a magic eraser
It is a safe product on leather items and can avoid some of the unpleasant problems that can occur with liquid detergents, such as water stains; moreover, it proves to be a particularly useful product if you need to remove streaks or ink stains.
Step 2. Try saddle soap
It is a specific product that you can use to clean, polish and protect leather and leather in general, therefore it performs a triple action! It typically comes as a solid block of wax or in the form of a liquid and is effective in removing stains as long as it is used appropriately following the manufacturer's directions. However, you need to be cautious and test a hidden corner of the object first, as it may remove color as well as stains.
Step 3. Use talcum powder or cornstarch
If you have to deal with an oil or grease stain, these absorbent powders are perfect for "lifting" it from the leather. For best results, follow these steps:
- After blotting the stain, spread some dust on the surface.
- Let it sit for a while.
- Gently brush off any excess product.
- Repeat the treatment until the oil is absorbed.
Step 4. Make a homemade cleaning paste
You can make a simple one by mixing equal parts of the lemon juice with the cream of tartar.
Advice
- The most important thing is to prevent. Treat the leather with a protective conditioner that prevents dirt and stains from adhering to the material, thereby reducing cleaning.
- Start with a "pretreatment". Before proceeding with the actual cleaning, make sure the leather does not have dust and debris on the surface.
- Do not use coarse or flaking cloths, such as paper towels, as they can scratch the skin or leave even more grime residue.
- If possible, use distilled or bottled water when preparing household cleaners, to prevent particles or minerals in tap water from settling on the item to be cleaned.
- Contact a professional. If the leather is untreated, is suede or is labeled "natural", you should take it to a dry cleaner or contact an expert in the field.
Warnings
- Be sure to read the instructions for using the leather item and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
- When using a new product, always try it in a hidden corner before using it on the entire surface; this is an important precaution to see if the leather fades or if the finish is damaged.
