Leather Upholstery Cleaning Products

Vinegar and Linseed Oil

• For general cleaning and conditioning, mix one part white vinegar with two parts linseed oil. Use linseed oil that is food-grade quality. Apply the mixture with a soft cloth, and leave it on the leather for at least eight hours. Buff the leather with another soft cloth, and your leather will be clean and protected.

Rubbing Alcohol

• To remove mold or mildew, especially in damp environments, mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Spray the diluted rubbing alcohol directly onto the leather, and use a soft cloth to wipe it clean. Avoid direct sunlight on the leather until the surface is completely dry.

Toothpaste

• Remove stains with a small amount of non-gel toothpaste applied directly to the stain. Rub the toothpaste gently into the leather. Toothpaste is a mild abrasive, but it can still leave scratches if you press too hard. Wipe the toothpaste away with a barely damp cloth.

Non-acetone Nail Polish Remover

• Non-acetone nail polish remover is particularly helpful for ink stains on leather upholstery. Apply a small amount directly to the stain with a soft cloth or cotton ball. Nail polish remover can remove some dyes, so test a hidden area before using it in more obvious locations. Nail polish remover can dry leather, so after removing the stain, use a mixture of linseed oil and vinegar to condition your upholstery.

Hairspray

• Spray a small amount of hairspray directly onto the leather to clean ink stains. Blot the hairspray, and repeat as needed until the stain disappears. Hairspray may take several applications to clean the leather, and, just like nail polish remover, can dry out your leather. Condition the upholstery after removing the stain.

Mayonnaise

• If your leather upholstery has water rings or spots, spread a thick layer of real, nonfat mayonnaise over the water marks. Leave the mayonnaise in place for at least a couple of hours, and wipe it away with a soft cloth. The mayonnaise should have drawn out all of the excess moisture, but, if any spots remain, reapply the mayonnaise.

Talc Powder

• Regular talc powder removes oily or greasy stains from leather. Sprinkle a thick layer of talc powder on the affected area, and leave it in place overnight at least. Brush the talc away, and repeat if necessary.