The Best Way to Recondition Leather Seats

Cleaning

• The first step is to thoroughly clean the surface. Over the years, leather can accumulate a heavy layer of grime and spills. Bar soap works well for cleaning leather, and many leather cleaning products are available as well. In addition to the soap, it will likely be necessary to obtain a leather softener. Old leather tends to get stiff and a leather softener will help restore the soft surface.

  Consider a lacquer thinner to clean out some of the old dye. Some of the lacquer dyes used on old leather contribute to their stiffness. Let the leather dry for a day before applying the leather softener after cleaning. A brush works best to apply the softener. Clean with soap and water again and allow to dry for one day.

Cracks and Rips

• If any of the seams are loose or cracked, the item probably must go to a professional leather refinisher to sew them back up from the underside of the leather. However, rips and cracks not around seams can be easily fixed at home. To fix a tear, cut a piece of leather in a similar color and grain to the original. Cut the piece a little larger than the tear. Glue the new leather piece under the crack. Use a leather crack filler to hide the seam between the two pieces of leather. Apply a color filler to any leather cracks. Sand the filler once it has dried.

Reconditioning

• Once the leather has been repaired, apply a new dye. Rub the dye into the leather following the package directions. Different dyes will have different methods of application. Wipe the seat with lacquer thinner before applying the dye. This helps it soak into the leather better. Use a foam brush or air paint sprayer. The next day, scrub the leather with a dish-scrubbing pad to encourage shine. Let dry another day before using the leather piece.