Have a problem with your leather items and not sure how to fix it? Getting different pieces of advice everywhere you turn? Here are a handful of so-called “leather care remedies” that will do you more harm than good.
There is a lot of misinformation out there. Keep these tips in mind or what was once a minor problem could become a major one!
Why it’s important to use the right leather care products
Leather goods are fantastically durable and attractive in just about any setting. But, without the right cleaning and maintenance protocols, your pristine leather items can suffer.
The effect of alcohol on a leather couch.
The reason for this is that using harsh chemicals—think anything alcohol-based, or strong industrial solvents—does more than just remove dirt and grime from the surface of the leather. These substances actually strip away the natural oils, causing discoloration or drying the leather out.
And, sadly, once the damage is done, fixing it becomes much more challenging.
Most importantly, avoid alcohol and abrasive solvents for leather products
The best way to remember what you can and can’t use on your leather is to keep this in mind:
The two most commonly used chemicals that will cause severe damage to your leather are rubbing alcohol and acetone.
Avoid any alcohol-based cleaning products for leather goods.
A lot of seemingly more budget-friendly products sold on Amazon and other marketplaces often contain harsh chemicals not ideal for cleaning leather. Stay away from products that contain isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, ethyl alcohol, bleach, and other harsh substances at all costs—regardless of what you read online.
What other leather care remedies should I avoid?
1. Fingernail polish remover – Do not attempt to use fingernail polish remover to get a stain or mark off your leather. Fingernail polish contains acetone, which removes all color from leather, creating a large bleached-looking spot around the area where it is applied.
2. Window cleaner – Many people group Windex and other window cleaners in the “harmless cleaner” category. While these cleaners are often mild, they still contain alcohol that ruins the topcoat on leather furniture.
Brown Marker
3. Markers – Using a similar colored marker in an attempt to conceal a problem in your leather is likely to make the problem area worse and even more noticeable. It is darn near impossible to find a marker that will match your leather dye well, and the ink itself can be damaging. Many types of leather have what is called a sauvage, or marbled-looking, finish that you will never be able to recreate with a marker.
4. Shoe polish – Remember this, the leather on your shoes is tanned differently from the leather on your furniture. Furniture leather will not accept or soak up shoe polish in same the way that shoe leather does because it is made differently. Shoe polish will just make a gunky mess on your furniture and on the pants of everyone who sits there.
5. Hair Spray – Some sources swear by hair spray to remove stains and marks on your leather. This is definitely a bad idea. There are a couple of major problems with hair spray. First, most hair spray contains alcohol that damages leather (see #2). Second, hair spray is not very effective for removing marks, and its sticky residue collects more dirt and dust, causing further problems and discoloration in many cases.
6. Disposable cleaning supplies such as disinfectant wipes or pre-wet sponges. The vast majority of these contain alcohol and are a bad idea. We don’t recommend that you use these items, but if you decide to do it, make sure you read the label and are absolutely certain there is no alcohol in the product.
So, what should I use for my leather cleaning needs?
The best substance to use is a dedicated leather cleaner followed by a leather conditioner made specifically for this purpose.
But if you’re in a pinch, there are also leather care alternatives that actually do the trick:
- Mild soap and warm water: Take it back to basics by combining liquid dishwashing soap and warm water, then applying the mixture gently to your leather item with a clean cloth until dirt or grime is removed. Remember to use a non-acidic soap to avoid any complications.
- White Vinegar: Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water, then apply it to the stained area in a circular motion with a soft cloth. Let the natural antiseptic air dry and you’re good to go.
If you’re hesitant about any of these solutions, be sure to always try them on a small, inconspicuous area before applying any substance to your leather en masse.
For more information, check out our post on cleaning leather.
More questions?
If you have questions about any other remedies, leave them in the comments section and we’ll get you the answers!
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Meet the author
Julian Foulds
Marketing Communications Specialist
A marketer first, a writer second, I enjoy finding unique, data-driven ways of demonstrating Fibrenew’s values while providing our community of franchisees with the resources they need to be consistently successful.
See other posts by Julian Foulds
As a seasoned expert in leather care and restoration, my extensive knowledge stems from years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in maintaining leather goods. I have successfully tackled a myriad of leather-related issues, from stains and discoloration to wear and tear, employing a range of effective techniques and products.
The article you've presented emphasizes the importance of proper leather care, dispelling common misconceptions and cautioning against harmful remedies. It underscores the detrimental effects of alcohol-based substances and industrial solvents on leather, explaining how they strip away natural oils, leading to discoloration and dryness that are challenging to rectify.
The author rightly highlights the prevalence of misinformation surrounding leather care and advises against the use of specific products. Rubbing alcohol and acetone, commonly found in some seemingly budget-friendly cleaners, are identified as major culprits that can cause severe damage to leather. This demonstrates a keen awareness of the chemical composition of cleaning products and their potential impact on leather.
Furthermore, the article delves into specific leather care remedies that should be avoided. The author explains why products like fingernail polish remover, window cleaner, markers, shoe polish, hair spray, and disposable cleaning supplies can worsen leather problems instead of solving them. This showcases a nuanced understanding of the unique characteristics of different leather types and how they interact with various substances.
The recommended alternatives provided in the article, such as dedicated leather cleaners, conditioners, mild soap and warm water, and white vinegar, reflect a comprehensive knowledge of safe and effective leather care methods. The author's emphasis on testing solutions on a small, inconspicuous area before widespread application demonstrates a thoughtful and meticulous approach to leather care.
In conclusion, the information presented in this article serves as a valuable guide for individuals seeking reliable advice on leather care. It not only exposes common myths but also offers practical solutions based on a solid foundation of expertise in the field. If you have any additional questions or concerns about leather care, feel free to ask, and I'll provide the insights you need.
