Leather seats are often treated as a luxurious add-on to your car’s interior, upping the comfort levels of most vehicles. However, they require regular maintenance while using effective cleaning procedures. Without proper care, leather car seats can fade, get blotchy and attract fungus. That’s why we’re breaking down everything you need to know about taking care of your car‘s leather seats – just like your local car wash would! Since leather is a distinctive substance, it is responsible for fading and splitting due to heat and UV beams. The life of the leather can be prolonged by rehearsing regular maintenance.
This blog has been updated on May 24, 2021.
STAGE 1 – THE DEEP CLEAN
Step 1: VACUUM AWAY LOOSE DUST AND DEBRIS
Begin by vacuuming any loose dirt, debris, or flotsam from the surface of your car seats. Your seats are quite likely to have picked up a lot of dust and microparticles (especially between cleanings). Trying to clean the seats without vacuuming them first would simply end up rubbing the debris further into your leather finish.
Step 2: APPLYING LEATHER CLEANER
Be liberal with your application of the leather cleaner or cleaning solution of your choice. Apply the leather cleaner on the surface of your seats, particularly between the creases, where dirt is likely to accumulate. A soft-bristled brush is an ideal choice for gently rubbing away at any dust or grime that’s stuck on your leather car seat.
Step 3: DRY AND WIPE DOWN ALL SURFACES
A clean and dry microfiber towel or cloth is your best friend when it comes to getting rid of any excess moisture on your car’s leather seats. Keep in mind that the seats may stay soggy to the touch to a certain degree, but that’s nothing to be alarmed about. A 24-hour period of drying time is ideal for most cars.
STAGE 2 – CONDITION YOUR LEATHER SEATS
Step 4: APPLY A LEATHER CONDITIONER
Be liberal with the application of your favored leather conditioner. It’s always a good idea to test the leather conditioner out first on a small section of your seat, just to ensure that the conditioner does not affect your seat’s finish adversely. Remember to avoid letting the conditioner pool at a location as well. A good leather conditioner helps prevent any cracks from appearing while providing adequate UV protection that will preserve the shade of your leather. A good 4-6 hours is required for the seats to retain the conditioner after each application.
Step 5: MICROFIBER WIPEDOWN
Finish up your leather car seat maintenance process by using a clean microfiber towel. These are the ideal choice for most car cleaning procedures and is a regular go-to for professionals and DIY people alike.
Following these tips will help your leather car seats stay in pristine condition – just remember to follow these steps once every 3-6 months. If DIY isn’t your thing, however, most top-rated car washes also offer detailing services for an additional charge.
Additional tips on cleaning your leather or vinyl car seat
Leather or vinyl seats in your car are prone to wear and tear over time and tend to stain easily. Fortunately, a Magic Eraser will come in handy if you do need to get them clean. Simply moisten the magic eraser and scrub the stain softly – just make sure you test it on a small portion of the seat that’s out of view to ensure it doesn‘t affect the car seat in any way. You could also use a mixture of olive oil and white vinegar, mixed in equal ratios, and rub it onto the stain gently using a clean rag – wipe the surface down afterward. This mixture also acts as a great disinfectant and helps the leather remain in excellent condition.
Websites and apps like Way.com offer professional and top-rated car wash services at great prices. What’s more, the whole family can get in on the sudsy action thanks to Way.com’s Carwash Voucher and Family Car Wash Pass that can be used on multiple (that’s right, multiple) vehicles!
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