Cleaning leather is not easy, and white skin is even more problematic. With tips on using liquid and dry cleaners, you will learn how to keep all your leather items perfectly clean - from sofas to Elvis Presley suits.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Liquid cleaners
Step 1. Prepare your liquid cleaner
Homemade white leather cleaner is not only economical and easy to use, but also safer on the material. Many synthetic detergents (especially kerosene-based) will discolor the material, stain or degrade the surface of the leather. Consider simple recipes and make a liquid cleanser from common household products:
- Mix 1 part mild soap (for face or clothes) and 8 parts warm water;
- Mix 2 parts vinegar and 1 part flaxseed oil.
Step 2. Apply the cleaning agent
Do not apply too much liquid directly to your skin as it can absorb excessive moisture, leaving water stains. Instead, use a spray bottle or apply the solution first to a microfiber cloth rather than directly onto your skin.
Step 3. Use a gentle scrubber and a very gentle circular motion to remove dirt and dust
Do not rub too hard to prevent dirt from penetrating the skin.
Step 4. Do not rinse the solution, but repeat the cleaning
The homemade solution does not need to be rinsed off the skin, but it is better to polish the surface gently. If the skin is still dirty, repeat the cleaning procedure after a while.
Method 2 of 2: Dry cleaners
Step 1. Use a melamine sponge
It can be used safely to clean leather, and the sponge is free of some of the disadvantages of liquid cleaners such as water stains. This sponge is especially effective for removing scuffs or ink.
Step 2. Use saddle soap
Saddle soap is a special type of soap that can cleanse, improve, and protect the skin. Triple success! Saddle soap is sold as a hard wax (or liquid) and is suitable for removing stains if you follow the manufacturer's directions. Be careful and first test the soap on an inconspicuous area of the skin so as not to remove the paint layer along with the stain.
Step 3. Use talcum powder or cornstarch
If you need to remove an oily or greasy stain, these absorbent powders can work wonders. Follow these steps:
- gently scoop up the grease or oil and dust the stain with powder;
- leave for a while;
- carefully collect the rest of the powder;
- repeat until the oil is completely absorbed.
Step 4. Prepare a cleaning paste
You can also make a homemade cleaning paste using 1 part lemon juice and 1 part tartar.
Advice
- Precautions are the key to cleanliness. Pre-treat your leather with a stain-prevention protective compound so cleaning is less time-consuming and effortless.
- Start with pre-cleaning. Remove all debris and dust from the skin before using the cleaning agent.
- Never use rough or loose cloths like paper towels for cleaning. They can scratch the skin or leave new debris on the surface.
- Use bottled or distilled water for home recipes, as tap water often contains hazardous particles and minerals.
- See a specialist. If the leather is untreated, has a suede finish, or is labeled "natural", it is best to consult a specialist and dry clean it.
Warnings
- Read the skin care instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer's directions.
- Always test a new product on an inconspicuous area of leather as it may discolor or damage the leather finish.