Car owners throughout the Northern Virginia area are commonly looking for tips on how to keep the leather upholstery in their vehicle looking fresh and new. Keeping your car looking like new — inside and out — requires attention to detail and dedication too. These tips will help keep you on the right track for the vehicle’s interior, and when something goes wrong under the hood, our trained technicians can take care of that too. But remember, always test your leather in an inconspicuous location before applying anything to a large area.
- Leather needs nourishment or it will eventually dry-out, becoming brittle and dull. Prepare a solution of one-part white vinegar and two-parts linseed oil. Shake it well and apply to the leather using a soft cloth, using circular motions. Rub the mixture in thoroughly, leave it there for approximately 10 minutes, then buff the area with a soft cloth to bring back the luster and shine. If the gleam isn’t quite high enough for your, buff it once more before sitting on it.
- Most stains, such as ink, can be removed with rubbing alcohol. Dip a cotton swab into the rubbing alcohol, rub the spot and then dry the spot with a hair dryer. If the stain persists, apply a thick coat of non-gel, non-oil cuticle remover (available at most pharmacies, cosmetology supply stores or where personal hygiene products are sold) to the area. Leave it on overnight, then wipe it off with a damp cloth in the morning.
- Light-colored leather vehicle upholstery can be spot-cleaned using a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and cream of tartar. Mix the paste and rub it on the stain, leaving it to work its magic for approximately 10 minutes. Apply another round of the paste, working that one in too, and remove both layers with a damp sponge.
- To simply clean the leather upholstery rather than focus on a stain, use a moisturizing soap (such as Dove or other facial soap). Lather up a soft cloth with the moisturizing soap and wash away the dirt and grime. Pay attention though, and do not let the cloth get too wet to avoid over-wetting the leather. Also, do not rinse the leather, just wipe it off (buff) it with a soft cloth. The moisturizing soap will condition the leather.
For more information on keeping your vehicle in top-shape, stop in today and talk to the trained technicians at Wiygul Automotive Clinic. Serving Burke, VA and the surrounding areas, we know cars and we know what you want — trustworthy service from reliable mechanics.