How To Clean Leather Car Seats – Easy & Smart Hacks (2023)

by | Aug 7, 2022 | Cars

Leather car seats are a luxurious addition to any vehicle. They add a touch of sophistication and class to your car. However, leather car seats can be challenging to keep clean.

They are susceptible to spills and staining, and if not cleaned properly, they can develop a musty smell. Leather seats are particularly delicate and require special care to keep them looking their best.

Leather is a durable and easy-to-care-for material, but it requires some special attention when it comes to cleaning.

In this article, we will share some tips and tricks about how to clean leather car seats. We will also provide some general advice on maintaining car’s leather seats so that they stay good for years to come. Let’s get started with the cleaning leather car seats DIY Guide!

Check Out Different Steps to Clean Leather Car Seats

Red leather front seats on a sport car.

Leather car seats can be cleaned in different ways. You can use a leather cleaner and conditioner for car seats or make your own cleaning solution with vinegar and water.

Whichever way you choose, test the cleaner on a small seat area before using it on the entire surface. Here are some tips for keeping your beautiful leather seats in good condition!

Step 1: Gather the Materials

All necessary materials for leather seat cleaning process, man cleans leather seat with brush in a background

The first step is collecting all the required materials and leather cleaning products you’ll need to begin a cleaning process. Following are some essentials of this process:

  • Vacuum Cleaner
  • Microfiber cloths
  • Leather cleaner
  • Soft-bristled brush
  • Leather conditioner

Step 2: Clean Your Car Seats With a Vacuum Cleaner

Person in a white nitrile gloves vacuum clean white car leather seats

Your car seats see a lot of wear and tear. They can get dirty from spills, dirt, and dust. And if you have kids or pets, they can get even dirtier. However, you do not have to tolerate uncleaned vehicle seats. With a vacuum cleaner, you can easily clean them.

Vacuum cleaners are a great way to clean car seats. They can remove surface dirt, dust, and even pet hair. And if you have a handheld vacuum cleaner, it can be even easier to clean your car seats. Just read the instructions on your vacuum cleaner before you start.

Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution

Cleaning expert applying leather cleaning solution to the car leather rear seat

Once the car seats have been vacuumed, you can then apply a leather cleaning solution to the seats to remove any tough stains or dirt that may be stuck in the fabric. To ensure that you are using the cleaning solution appropriately, be sure to adhere to the instructions on the container. 

You can apply a cleaning solution to your vehicle seats in a few different ways. You can use a spray bottle to mist the solution onto the seats or a sponge or cloth to apply the solution. Regardless of the technique you use, make sure to coat the whole seat leather surfaces with the solution.

Step 4: Use Soft Bristle Cleaning Brush to Clean the Sticky Residue

Person uses soft bristle brush to clean beige leather seat

If you’ve ever had an unfortunate experience of dropping anything sticky on your car seat, you might be aware of how challenging it can be to get the substance off.

After applying the cleaning solution to your car seat, use a soft bristle brush to clean the sticky residue. You might need to gently scrub a little more vigorously for stubborn stains, but take care not to harm the cloth.

Step 5: Dry Seats with a Microfiber Towel

Person wiping out all dirt and excessive cleaning solution with microfiber towel from leather seat

After scrubbing the car seat with a brush, clean the seats with a dry microfiber cloth. Any dirt or debris that the brush may have missed will be removed as a result. Be sure to go over the entire seat, including the creases and corners.

Vacuum the seats when you’re done to get rid of any dirt or debris that may have remained. The seats will appear good and feel brand-new after this.

Step 6: Apply Leather Conditioner

Person with pink rubber gloves applies leather seat conditioner on the special cloth before using it on beige car seat

After cleaning the automobile’s interior with a microfiber cloth, it is crucial to apply a high quality leather conditioner. The microfiber soft cloth will remove dirt and debris from the leather, but it can also strip away natural oils.

These oils will be replenished by the conditioner, keeping the leather supple. Leather waxes, leather oils, or creams moisturize the leather and help soften the surface. Conditioner also helps in breaking off the color change.

Most leather conditioners in the market today are designed to be used after cleaning the seats with a microfiber cloth. By doing this, you’ll be able to replenish the leather’s natural oils and stop the seats from drying out and cracking over time.

Follow the guidelines on the conditioner’s packaging while applying it. The conditioner must be applied to a clean, dry cloth before circularly rubbing into the leather. The seats may be polished with a clean towel once the conditioner has been applied.

Tips You Need To Consider While Clean Leather Seats

Slightly damaged black leather seat on a car, close up

It can be tricky because you don’t want to damage the leather while trying to get it clean. But you don’t need to worry because we’ve got you covered. You can clean your leather seats with a few tips and keep them looking new.

Here are a few things to keep in mind while cleaning leather seats:

  • Use a soft, clean cloth to avoid scratching the leather.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents, as these can damage the leather.
  • In most cases, simply wiping the seats down with a damp cloth will be enough.
  • A DIY solution of mild soap and water can be used if the seats are filthy.
  • Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden seat area to ensure it won’t damage the leather.
  • After cleaning, make sure to condition the leather to keep it fresh.

Discussion Wrap Up!

Leather car seats are a valuable investment. They are comfortable, luxurious, and add resale value to your vehicle. To maintain their finest appearance, they need careful care.

This article outlines a step-by-step process for cleaning leather car seats and a few crucial tips to keep in mind. Your leather vehicle seats will survive for many years with little maintenance.

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