Clean & Condition Leather Clothing (2024)

FAQs

What do you clean and condition leather with? ›

You can buy a commercial leather conditioner or make your own by mixing one part vinegar to two parts linseed oil. Apply it to the leather, let sit for about 15 minutes and buff with a soft cloth until the leather shines. Knowing how to clean leather will make your jacket look great and last longer.

Once every six months should be enough. A Spring/Fall schedule may be best. In the spring, you can clean and remove any salt or build up from the winter and get your leather goods ready for storage or the long, hot days of summer.

After cleaning the leather, let it dry completely. Once the leather is dry, you're ready to protect and soften it with a leather conditioner.

Best Spray

The Lexol Foaming All Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Kit features a ph-balanced foaming cleaner and nourishing conditioner in a convenient spray bottle. A spray makes it easier to cover a wider area, so this is a nice choice for furniture like leather chairs, car seats, or couch cushions.

-Do not use household detergents, wax or spray polish or any proprietary brand fluids or abrasive cleaners on the leather as this will damage its surface.

You can polish leather when you want to add a quick shine to a leather jacket, leather boots, or any other leather product. Can you put too much conditioner on leather? You can put too much conditioner on leather, but don't worry. The problem will likely resolve itself as the leather absorbs the conditioner over time.

How can I tell if my leather needs conditioning? Well conditioned leather feels supple. Like healthy skin. As leather dries out it will feel lighter, more papery or cardboard like, and will show fine cracks in areas where the leather bends.

(We recommend testing any leather conditioner in a discreet area, as suggested with cleaning.) Allow the conditioner to dry for at least two hours, or overnight if you have the time. Then gently buff off any excess. For older or excessively dry leather, you may need to apply an additional coat.

General Cleaner for All Leather

Mix a 50/50 vinegar and water solution in a bowl (Image 1) and use a microfiber cloth to apply it to your furniture (Image 2). Rub the leather in a circular motion to lift the dirt out of the natural fibers. Return your cloth to the bowl often, wringing it out and rewetting it.

Can you condition leather without cleaning? ›

Before you even get to leather conditioning, the leather must be cleaned.

Any cleaning product with a high pH, like vinegar or lemon juice, damages leather fibers and results in excessive drying that creates unsightly cracks.

You can clean leather shoes at home by mixing warm water and dish soap in a cup, dampening a soft cloth with it and wiping the surface of patent leather. Make sure water isn't dripping off the cloth. Use another damp cloth to wipe off the soap and then let the leather dry.

For stubborn stains, use a damp cloth with a bit of mild soap, wiping in a circular motion. Deep Clean: Once in a while, wipe down the entire surface with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar or a dedicated leather cleaner. Always do a patch test first. Condition: Leather can dry out over time.