Leather products are known to be durable and slick. However, these materials require a high level of maintenance. To clean leather products naturally, start by making a cleaning solution with ingredients at home or using natural ingredients, such as olive oil. Apply the cleaning solution carefully and make sure the skin is completely dry afterwards. Establishing a regular cleaning schedule will keep leather products cool in the long run.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Using a Liquid Cleanser
Step 1. Use a vinegar solution
Mix clean water and kitchen vinegar in a 50:50 ratio in a bowl. If you're only doing a light cleaning, reduce the amount of vinegar. Apple cider vinegar can also be used as a substitute if you don't intend to kill germs on the leather material. Wipe this solution all over the leather product until it's damp.
Make sure the vinegar is mixed with the water because pure vinegar is too acidic for the skin
Step 2. Wipe with natural oil
Take a bowl, then mix the oil and water or lemon juice in a 2:1 ratio. Any natural oil can be used. People usually like fragrant oils, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or walnut oil. This oil will help hydrate the skin material, while the lemon water will remove any dust or dirt. Apply this mixture to your skin until it's damp, then scrub with a microfiber cloth.
If you are interested in polishing your skin, apply the oil directly to the product. Make sure that the applied layer remains thin or the skin may be stained
Step 3. Massage with essential oils
Pour 10-15 drops of essential oil onto a microfiber cloth or sponge. Apply the oil in a circular motion on the surface of the skin. Do not let any part of the pool, then continue until all parts of the product is coated. Make sure you choose an oil with a scent you like, such as lemon or lavender.
Step 4. Apply mild baby soap or detergent
Prepare warm water, then add a few drops of baby soap or natural detergent. Also add a few drops of vinegar if the skin is very dirty. Use this solution as a conditioner that functions to clean and prevent dirt. After applying it to the surface of the leather material, let it dry.
For all of the above methods, you should use filtered water to prevent any residue on the skin's surface
Method 2 of 3: Using a Solid Cleanser
Step 1. Moisten the leather material with beeswax
Buy regular beeswax or one that is specially designed for cleaning the skin. You can usually buy this product at a clothing store. Heat the wax in a skillet until it is warm, but not melted. Mix it with any fragrance you like, such as almond oil. Place the wax on a microfiber cloth and massage it into the skin. Prepare another clean cloth to wipe off the sticking wax.
Step 2. Rub with banana
Prepare the banana peel. Position the inside of the banana peel against the surface of the object to be cleaned. Rub so that the natural oils in the skin coat the skin. You may need more than one banana peel, depending on the size of the surface you are cleaning. The oil from the banana peel will get rid of the dirt so the skin material looks clean and smells good.
If any leather residue remains, prepare a clean cloth to wipe the surface
Step 3. Make cream of tartar
Take a bowl, then add the cream of tartar and lemon juice in a 1:1 ratio. Mix well until it becomes a paste. Place this paste over the stain or dirty area. Wait a few minutes, then wipe the paste off with a damp cloth. Repeat as necessary.
Step 4. Purchase an all-natural cleaning kit
You can get this kit at a clothing store or online. The product usually includes cleaning fluid, a washcloth, and instructions. Follow the written instructions carefully. Also read the ingredients used if you only want to use natural products.
Method 3 of 3: Using Cleaning Products
Step 1. Read the instructions on the garment carefully, if provided
If your leather product has a label, read it carefully before starting the cleaning process. For clothing products, the label generally describes whether the garment is machine washable or not. For furniture, the label generally directs you to customer service. You may also receive a paper with instructions for use after purchasing the product.
If your product doesn't have a label on it, but you know the brand, visit the website. If there is a website, the manufacturer will usually list a list of authorized repair points or product support centers
Step 2. Clean all the dust and dirt first
Prepare a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the surface of the leather material. This will help you get rid of dust and dirt. For furniture products, use the brush attached to the vacuum cleaner to clean the surface. Doing this before the cleansing process will prevent dirt from getting deeper into the skin so the fibers don't look rough.
Step 3. Do the test in one area
Before using a cleaning product, look for a small, inconspicuous area to test. Apply a small amount of cleaning product to the area, then wait a few minutes. Wipe it clean and check if any discoloration or wrinkles appear.
If the skin appears damaged, you should consult a professional, such as a laundry worker, before proceeding with the process
Step 4. Moisturize skin
Excess fluid can cause wrinkling and discoloration. When you apply a cleaning or moisturizing product to leather items, be sure to wipe off any excess liquid as soon as possible. Use a damp towel or washcloth, not too wet, to wipe it off so that no excess liquid remains.
Step 5. Wipe the skin in the direction of the fibers
Look at the surface of the skin for patterns. If the leather fibers are pointing to one side, apply moisturizer in the direction of the pattern. This will allow the cleaning fluid to absorb into the skin and remove any stains or dust that has stuck to the fibers.
Step 6. Dry
As a final step, prepare a dry sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe the surface of the leather. See if there are any stains that need further treatment. Removing residue from the cleaning process will prevent dust from re-adhering.
Tips
If the leather material smells, use an odor-absorbing material, such as baking soda, when cleaning it
Warning
- Make sure you avoid using harsh cleaners for leather products. Products like ammonia can "eat away" the skin and cause permanent damage.
- If you use the method above to clean a leather bag, try it on an enclosed area before cleaning the entire bag.