Best Tools and Supplies To Clean Leather Stains At Home

Leather has a different quality, but it is equally important to maintain it properly. If the tools and supplies are not used properly, the leather will get spoiled, its shine will fade and cracks can also appear. Each type of leather is different, and the way to clean it is also different. 

Full-grain leather is completely natural, so gentle cleaning products should be used for it. The texture of suede and nubuck leather is different, so a normal cloth or brush will not work for cleaning them, but a special suede brush and dry cleaning bar have to be used. Patent leather is shiny, so a soft microfiber cloth and a mild cleaner are best for it. 

If it is synthetic leather such as faux leather, vegan leather, or plant-based leather. Then it is quite easy to maintain, but even for that, a rough sponge or harsh cleaner should not be used.

It is very important to use the right tools and supplies to clean leather, otherwise the texture of the leather could be damaged or its shelf life could be reduced. Therefore, understand which material to use on which leather and how to apply it.

Why Is Proper Cleaning Of Leather Important?

Leather is a classy material and if it is not maintained properly, it will slowly become dull and weak. Proper cleaning is not only important to maintain its shine, but also to increase its durability. Wrong cleaning method can weaken the leather, cracks can appear, and its texture can also be spoilt. So let us understand in very simple and easy steps why leather cleaning is important and how it should be done properly.

Remove Dust and Dirt

With time, dust and dirt get applied on the leather, which slowly seeps inside. If regular cleaning is not done, the texture of the leather will get spoiled and its breathability will also decrease.

Wiping dust on a regular basis with a soft microfiber cloth will make the leather look fresh and will also remove the dirt that gets deposited inside.

Remove Stubborn Stains Immediately 

If coffee, ink, grease or water spills, clean it immediately, otherwise it will get absorbed inside the leather.

Using a leather stain remover removes even tough stains easily without damaging the leather. It is best to clean the stain by pressing it gently rather than rubbing it.

Always Keep The Leather Clean

Conditioning is a must after cleaning, otherwise the leather may dry out and crack.

Leather conditioner works to lock in moisture, which makes the leather look soft and smooth. Without conditioning, leather can become hard and brittle over time, which is not good.

Extra Safety From Protection Spray

Leather protection spray acts as an invisible shield that protects against dirt, water, and UV rays. If you have leather goods that are used regularly, such as shoes, bags or jackets, then applying protection spray is the best option.

It also creates a waterproofing layer that prevents water and stains from getting absorbed inside the leather.

Proper Care to Extend Leather’s Life

If you clean and maintain leather products properly, then leather products will last longer.

Rough use or use of wrong products can reduce the life of leather. With proper cleaning and protection, leather maintains its original look and strength for a longer time.

Cleaning Tools and Supplies For Different Leather Types

If you clean your leather properly using the correct cleaning tools, it will last for years. Otherwise, it will start to wear out, become loose, and break within a few years. Now, every leather is different, so the method cleaning will also be different. Got it?

Understand the basic tools once, then we will also tell you the specific equipment required for different leathers.

Basic tools that are necessary for cleaning every types of leather:

Microfiber Cloth: This is a great thing to clean leather. It is soft, does not scratch and the leather feels fresh.

Soft Bristle Brush: If there is a lot of dirt or dust on the leather, this brush will come in handy. Do not use a hard brush, otherwise the surface of the leather will get damaged.

Leather Cleaner: Different leather cleaners are available in the market, but there is a different cleaner for each type of leather.

Leather Conditioner: This is the life of leather and without it, the leather will dry up and become thin.

Spray Bottle and Lukewarm Water: Water and spray bottle are a must to avoid using a strong cleaner.

Cotton Pads or Sponge: Sometimes used for spot cleaning.

Vacuum Cleaner (optional): If you are cleaning furniture or leather seats of a car, vacuum them first.

Different supplies and cleaning methods for each type of leather

1. Faux Leather Cleaning Tools

Faux leather is a mixture of plastic and synthetic materials that looks like real leather but is a little affordable and requires low maintenance.

Tools you’ll need:

• Mild dish soap and water mixture
• Microfiber cloth
• Soft bristle brush
• White vinegar (optional for stains)
• Petroleum jelly or coconut oil (for extra shine)

How to Clean Faux Leather:

1. Remove dirt with a dry cloth: First, remove dirt from the leather surface by lightly wiping it with a dry microfiber cloth.

2. Make a mixture of mild soap and water: Take a spray bottle, add some water and mild dish soap to it. Make sure that it is not too strong and will not damage the leather.

3. Wipe with a Cloth: Spray a light mist from the bottle and wipe the entire faux leather with a microfiber cloth.

4. Brushing for Tough Stains: If you see any stubborn stains, rub it lightly with a soft bristle brush.

5. White Vinegar Trick: If the stain is not going away, you can mix a little white vinegar and water and do spot cleaning.

6. Coconut Oil for Shine: Lastly, rub a little coconut oil or petroleum jelly so that the faux leather looks soft and glossy.

Extra Tips:

After wiping every time, make sure to dry it with a dry cloth.

Do not expose to direct sunlight, otherwise cracking may occur.

Avoid strong chemical cleaners, otherwise the colour of faux leather will fade.

2. Vegan Leather Cleaning Tools 

Vegan leather is basically made of plant-based or synthetic material, but it does not contain any animal element like real leather. Its look and feel is similar to real leather, but the method of cleaning it is slightly different.

Tools you’ll need:

• Mild soap and water
• Microfiber cloth
• Soft bristle brush
• Olive oil or flaxseed oil

How to Clean Faux Leather:

1. Remove dust first with a dry cloth: Remove dust with a dry cloth just like you did with faux leather.

2. Mix mild soap and wipe: Take a small sponge, apply mild soap and water to it and wipe the entire surface.

3. Brushing for stubborn stains: Use a soft bristle brush and rub lightly, do not apply too much force otherwise the leather will start peeling.

4. Finishing with oil: If vegan leather looks a little dry, apply a light coat of olive oil or flaxseed oil to maintain softness and shine.

Extra Tips:

Do not keep it in direct sunlight otherwise it will fade quickly.

Make sure to oil it once every month.

Make sure to give a light dry wipe after every cleaning.

3. Real Leather Cleaning Tools

The cleaning of real leather is different. It is sensitive and if not taken care of properly, its charm will go away.

Tools you’ll need:

• pH-balanced leather cleaner
• Microfiber cloth
• Leather conditioner
• Saddle soap
• Soft bristle brush

How to Clean Real Leather:

1. Remove Dust First: Remove dust with a dry microfiber cloth.

2. Apply Leather Cleaner or Saddle Soap: Dip a soft cloth in leather cleaner or saddle soap and rub it lightly on the leather.

3. Clean with a Damp Cloth: Take a slightly wet cloth and wipe the leather.

4. Apply Leather Conditioner: This step is the most important, otherwise the leather will become hard. Rub the conditioner well and polish with a soft cloth.

Extra Tips:

It is necessary to apply conditioner once every month.

Do not use excess water otherwise the leather will absorb it.

Do not forget to dry it after every cleaning.

4. Synthetic Leather Cleaning Tools

Synthetic leather, which is also called artificial leather or faux leather, is a material that is made of plastic or rubber. Its appearance is like real leather, but maintenance is a quite easy. But, if cleaned in the wrong way, it can get damaged quickly.

Tools you’ll need:

• Mild liquid soap and water
• Microfiber cloth
• Soft bristle brush
• White vinegar (for stains)
• Leather conditioner

How to Clean Synthetic Leather:

1. Dust Removal: First of all, remove any dust or dirt with a dry microfiber cloth. This step is important so that there are no scratches later.

2. Make a mixture of soap and water: Mix mild soap and water in a spray bottle. This solution should not be too strong, otherwise the texture of synthetic leather will be destroyed.

3. Wipe With Damp Cloth: Now spray a solution from the spray bottle on synthetic leather and wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.

4. Brushing for Hard Stains: If there are any tough stains, use a soft bristle brush, but do not apply too much force.

5. White Vinegar For Stubborn Stains: If the stains are not going away, mix some white vinegar and water and apply it on the stain.

6. Conditioner For Softness: When the leather is dry, apply leather conditioner, so that the leather remains soft and flexible.

Extra Tips:

Keep away from direct sunlight, otherwise the colour will fade.

Do not use too much water, just wipe with a damp cloth

Do not touch synthetic leather with sharp objects

5. Plant-Based Leather Cleaning Tools 

Plant-based leather is a great eco-friendly version which is made from natural materials like cork, pineapple leaves (piñatex), apple peels, or mushrooms. Its texture is also soft and looks like real leather. But, because it is a natural material, a little extra care has to be taken, we hope you get it?

Tools you’ll need:

• Mild soap and lukewarm water
• Microfiber cloth
• Soft brush
• Olive oil
• Leather conditioner

How to Clean Plant-based Leather:

1. Remove dust first: First of all, gently wipe off dust and dirt with a dry microfiber cloth.

2. Mix mild soap and wipe: Take some water, mix mild soap in it and wipe plant-based leather with a soft cloth.

3. Soft brush for stains: If the stains are very stubborn, then rub gently with a soft brush. Be careful, do not do hard brushing.

4. Moisturize by applying oil: Plant-based leather needs a little moisture. Apply a light coat of olive oil so that the leather stays soft and nourished.

5. Conditioning: Finally, apply a leather conditioner to increase the longevity of the leather.

Extra Tips:

Do not keep it in direct sunlight so that the color does not fade.

Oiling once every month will keep the leather soft.

If necessary, use a water-repellant spray once so that water does not stick to the leather.

Final Tips For All Types of Leather (A Few General Tips)

Clean Regularly: Every leather type needs cleaning. If dirt or stains are not removed, the leather can get damaged quickly.

Condition Every Few Weeks: It is important to apply a conditioner to give the leather a natural shine and softness.

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not keep leather in direct sunlight, otherwise it can dry out or its colour will fade.

Store Properly: When not in use, it is best to store it in a dust bag. Leather also needs air, so do not pack tightly.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid strong cleaners and bleaches. These make the leather rough and take away its texture.

Leather Cleaning Products & Their Correct Use

As you already know that if leather is not cleaned properly then its shine will fade away and the quality will become useless over time. That is why, now we will discuss about leather cleaning products like which product should be used when, how should it be used and you will also get extra tips.

1. Leather Cleaner – For Old Stains, Dust, and Dirt

Leather cleaner is useful for basic cleaning. Assume that your leather jacket or sofa has dust, dirt, sweat or a light thick stain on it, then this cleaner will work really well. It keeps the leather clean and fresh without taking away its natural shine.

How To Use It?

Step 1: First take a soft cotton or microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Apply the leather cleaner lightly on the cloth (do not apply it directly on the leather, understand?).

Step 3: Now clean it by keeping a light hand on the cloth. If you apply too much force then the texture of the leather can get spoiled.

Step 4: If the stain is too big, take a soft-bristle brush and rub it lightly.

Step 5: After cleaning, wipe it again with a dry cloth so that there is no extra liquid left.

In Which Condition Should It Be Used?

• When there is dust, light oil or normal dirt stuck to the leather.
• For regular cleaning, so that the charm of the leather is maintained.
• If there is sweat or stickiness on the leather.

Extra Tips:

Always test on a corner first, the cleaner can be too harsh on some leather types.

Do not use too much liquid, use only a lightly damp rag (wet cloth).

Do not clean leather in direct sunlight, otherwise it will crack after drying.

2. Leather Conditioner – The Secret To Keep It Shiny

Leather is also like skin, it also needs hydration, otherwise it will dry and start cracking. And leather conditioner does the same work, it keeps it soft and shiny by maintaining moisture. Just like body lotion does for your skin, this conditioner is for leather.

How To Use It?

Step 1: First clean the leather with a leather cleaner, because there is no benefit in applying conditioner on dirty leather.

Step 2: Now take a clean and dry microfiber cloth and apply some conditioner to it.

Step 3: Rub it lightly on the leather in a circular motion.

Step 4: Leave it for 10-15 minutes so that the leather can absorb it well.

Step 5: Take another clean dry cloth and wipe off the extra conditioner.

In Which Situation Should It Be Used?

• When the leather starts to feel dry or its shine fades.
• To protect leather from aging, because without conditioning it will get damaged quickly.

Extra Tips:

Do not apply too much conditioner, otherwise the leather can become sticky.

Use it only on genuine leather, it will not work on synthetic leather.

It is best to do conditioning once every month or two.

3. Leather Stain Remover – Suitable For Stubborn Stains

Now if you want to buy leather, then understand that sometimes tough stains can get on it. If someone spills ink, coffee can get spilled, or oil or grease can get applied on it. In this case, a normal leather cleaner will not work, so you need a perfect leather stain remover that can remove tough stains without damaging the leather.

How To Use It?

Step 1: First take a cotton ball or microfiber cloth.

Step 2: Apply a small amount of leather stain remover on the cloth.

Step 3: Now softly dab it on the stained area, do not rub it otherwise the stain will spread further.

Step 4: If the stain is tough, then rub it lightly with a soft brush.

Step 5: After it is clean, take a dry cloth and wipe the area.

In Which Situation Should It Be Used?

• For ink stains, grease, oil, or ink stains.
• For liquid stains like tough coffee, wine or ketchup.
• For removing old stuck stains.

Extra Tips:

Not every stain remover is suitable for every type of leather, so test it first.

Apply and clean quickly, otherwise the stain will penetrate completely inside.

Always apply leather conditioner after using this product, so that the leather remains soft and healthy.

4. Leather Protection Spray – Protection Like a Shield

Just cleaning and conditioning is not enough, protection is also important. Leather Protection Spray forms a layer that protects the leather from dust, water, UV rays and moisture. Consider it as an invisible shield that is the ultimate bodyguard of your leather.

How To Use It?

Step 1: First clean and dry the leather properly.

Step 2: Spray the leather protection spray lightly and evenly.

Step 3: After spraying, let it dry for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: If you want extra protection, spray another coat.

Step 5: After drying, wipe it lightly with a dry cloth to remove extra residue.

In Which Situation Should It Be Used?

• When leather is being used outdoors or in rainy areas.
• When leather products need to be protected from water and moisture.
• If leather car seats or furniture is used regularly.

Extra Tips:

Before using leather protection spray, the area should be ventilated, otherwise the smell can bother.

Always apply a light coat, do not make a thick layer, otherwise it will suffocate the leather.

Use the spray after shaking it properly, otherwise it can have an uneven finish.

Some Key Points That You Should Know

• Always use the right product by knowing the type of leather that you have. 
• Do not keep leather in direct sunlight, otherwise the shine will fade.
• Regular cleaning and conditioning is a must, otherwise the leather will fade quickly.
• Keep away from water and oil, otherwise the texture of the leather will be ruined.
• Test every product on a small place first, so that there is no chance of damage.

Common Mistakes To Avoid While Cleaning Leather 

Cleaning leather in the right way is an art, but if you make a mistake then your product can become useless. Many people make some common mistakes while cleaning leather which takes away its shine and durability.

1. Do Not Use Too Much Water

If you use too much water then the shape of the leather can get spoiled.

It is okay to wipe lightly with a wet cloth, but leather should not be wet.

If by mistake excess water gets applied then let it dry naturally, do not dry it in the dryer or direct sunlight.

2. Do Not Use Harsh Chemicals

There are many cheap leather cleaners available in the market which are full of harsh chemicals.

These chemicals remove the natural oils from the leather, which makes the leather dry and cracks appear.

Always use a gentle and pH-balanced leather cleaner.

3. Using The Wrong Brush Or Cloth

Many people clean leather with a normal rough sponge or hard-bristled brush which ruins its surface.

Use a special suede brush for suede and nubuck, and a microfiber cloth is best for normal leather.

There is a full chance of spoiling the texture of the leather with the wrong tools.

4. Drying In Direct Sunlight

If a leather product gets wet by mistake, do not dry it in the sun.

Drying leather in direct sunlight causes its natural oils to evaporate, which can make it dry and brittle.

Always let it air dry at normal room temperature.

5. Do Not Over-Clean The Leather

People think that excessive cleaning will make leather look better, but over-cleaning can weaken it.

Cleaning should be done only when needed or on a fixed routine.

Using heavy chemicals or excessive moisture all the time can reduce the life of leather.

Conclusion

The real shine of leather is visible only when it is properly taken care of. If tools and supplies are used correctly, the durability of leather will increase and it will always look like new. It is important to use different products for different leather types, like suede brush only for suede, microfiber cloth for normal leather, and protection spray to prevent it from water damage. 

Following a proper cleaning routine will keep the cleanliness of the leather at its best. It is important to avoid wrong methods, otherwise the life of the expensive leather products could be reduced. So that’s enough for this article, follow all these tricks and your leather goods will always look top-class!