Leather Care

To retain its beauty and other desirable qualities, leather requires frequent conditioning to replace the natural lubricants lost during normal use.

With many parts of the nation already experiencing the summer heat, it’s a good idea to care and protect the leather in your vehicle. Creative Colors International, one of the largest franchises in the repair, reconditioning and color restoration of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastics and carpeting, offers the following useful information for extending and enhancing the life of your vehicle’s leather.

 

To retain its beauty and other desirable qualities, leather requires frequent conditioning to replace the natural lubricants lost during normal use. With the proper care, leather can be protected from excessive dryness that can cause it to crack, and from moisture that may cause it to swell or mildew.

Because unprotected leather is susceptible to spotting from water and other liquids, a newly purchased leather item should be treated immediately to help prevent permanent stains from occurring. Be sure to use only the proper protection for your particular type of leather.

1. The use of too much oil or wax can clog pores, causing leather to lose its ability to allow air in and moisture out. For the best protection, we recommend a mild dishwashing soap. Ivory liquid dishwashing soap is an excellent way to keep your leather clean and looking new. One part Ivory to 10 parts water.
2. Dairy products that spill on darker dyed leather will leave a spot. After cleaning, the oils in the dairy products will eventually rise back up to the surface. Try and be careful with any dairy product next to your leather.
3. Lighter colored leather needs to be cleaned often. Dirt, dust and clothing will leave traces on leather. Especially, black and dark-blue dyed jeans.
4. Never use preparations made for smooth leather on suede or “rough out” leather. Use only cleaners or preparations made specifically for suede.