10Best.Guide

Leather Cleaner

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Easy to apply and stays where you put it.
  • Consistent high-quality results.
  • Keeps leather soft and pliable.
  • Works well on fine-grained leather.
  • Smells good.
Cons
  • Leaves a sticky feel on the leather.
  • May change the color of the leather.
Bottom Line
Effax Lederbalsam is a consistent high-quality leather conditioner that keeps leather soft and pliable. It works well on fine-grained leather and smells good. However, it may leave a sticky feel on the leather and change its color. The new recipe is waxier and leaves a glaze on the leather.
Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • Does not darken leather significantly
  • Affordable
  • Effective in conditioning leather
  • Prevents leather from cracking
Cons
  • May leave gummy residue if over-applied
  • May not work for extremely dry and stiff leather
Bottom Line
Bickmore Bick 4 Leather Conditioner is an effective and affordable product for conditioning different types of leather. It is easy to apply and does not significantly darken leather. However, it may not work for extremely dry and stiff leather and may cause color transfer on new leather items.
Pros
  • Effective in cleaning and conditioning leather.
  • Can restore old and dry leather.
  • Best leather cleaner on the market.
  • Invigorates leather.
  • Comes in a set with everything needed for cleaning.
Cons
  • Bottles leak.
  • Expensive compared to other leather cleaners.
Bottom Line
Leather Honey is an effective and best leather cleaner on the market that can restore old and dry leather. However, the bottles leak and the set is expensive compared to other leather cleaners. The honey conditioner is difficult to use and the cleaner is just all right. It is best to do a test strip before using on non-black leather and to pre-clean before using the preservative material.
Pros
  • Works great on old hiking boots
  • Restored old dress leather boots
  • Restored leather seats in a car
  • Restored a Hanks belt
  • Restored a used purse
Cons
  • Removed finish on leather cowboy boots
  • Difficult to open can
Bottom Line
Bickmore Saddle Soap is an effective leather cleaner that can restore old and worn leather products. However, it may remove the finish or color from some leather products, so it should be used with caution. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the entire product.
Pros
  • Gentle and easy to spread
  • Absorbs quickly
  • Softens and plumps up leather
  • Improves appearance of leather
  • Great for conditioning designer handbags
Cons
  • May not be effective on extremely dry leather
  • May darken vachetta leather
Bottom Line
Apple Leather Conditioner is a gentle and effective product that can soften, plump up, and improve the appearance of old and tired-looking leather. It is great for conditioning designer handbags and doesn't leave a sticky residue. However, it may not be effective on extremely dry leather, may darken vachetta leather, and may leave stains on some parts of leather. The bottle size is also small.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Leather Cleaner: Tips, Types, Features, and Prices

Overview

Leather is a luxurious and durable material that requires proper care and maintenance to retain its beauty and longevity. Using a leather cleaner is an essential step in maintaining the quality of your leather furniture, car seats, and accessories. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right leather cleaner can be overwhelming. That's why we've created this comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision. In this guide, we'll discuss the different types of leather cleaners, key considerations, features, prices, and tips to keep your leather looking new for years to come.

Types

1. Water-based leather cleaners: These are gentle cleaners that are suitable for all types of leather. They are easy to use and do not leave any residue. Water-based cleaners are ideal for regular maintenance and cleaning.

2. Solvent-based leather cleaners: These are stronger cleaners that are designed to remove tough stains and dirt. They are best for heavily soiled or stained leather. However, solvent-based cleaners can be harsh on leather and should be used sparingly.

3. Natural leather cleaners: These are eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaners that are made from natural ingredients. They are safe for all types of leather and are ideal for people with allergies or sensitivities to chemicals.

Key Considerations

1. Leather type: Before choosing a leather cleaner, it's important to determine the type of leather you have. Different types of leather require different cleaning methods and products. For example, suede leather requires a different cleaner than smooth leather.

2. Stain type: The type of stain on your leather will also determine the type of cleaner you need. For example, ink stains require a different cleaner than oil stains.

3. Safety: Always read the label and instructions before using a leather cleaner. Some cleaners can be harmful to your health or the environment. Choose a cleaner that is safe and non-toxic.

Features

1. pH-balanced: A pH-balanced cleaner is gentle on leather and does not damage the natural oils in the leather.

2. UV protection: Some leather cleaners come with UV protection to prevent fading and cracking caused by sunlight.

3. Conditioner: Some leather cleaners also contain a conditioner that helps to moisturize and protect the leather.

Prices

Leather cleaners range in price from $5 to $50, depending on the type, brand, and size of the product. Natural and eco-friendly cleaners tend to be more expensive.

Tips

1. Test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the entire surface.

2. Always follow the instructions on the label.

3. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the leather.

4. Avoid using too much water, as it can damage the leather.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a leather cleaner on all types of leather?

A: No, different types of leather require different cleaning methods and products. Always check the label to ensure that the cleaner is suitable for your type of leather.

Q: How often should I clean my leather?

A: It depends on how often the leather is used and exposed to dirt and stains. As a general rule, it's recommended to clean leather every 6-12 months.

Q: Can I use a leather cleaner on suede leather?

A: No, suede leather requires a different cleaner than smooth leather. Always choose a cleaner that is specifically designed for suede leather.

Q: Can I use a leather cleaner on my car seats?

A: Yes, leather cleaners are suitable for cleaning car seats. However, it's important to choose a cleaner that is safe for use in a car and does not leave any residue that can damage the upholstery.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right leather cleaner is essential to maintain the quality and longevity of your leather furniture, car seats, and accessories. Consider the type of leather, stain type, safety, pH balance, UV protection, and conditioner before making a purchase. Always follow the instructions and use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the leather. With our comprehensive buying guide, you can make an informed decision and keep your leather looking new for years to come.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Restores faded leather
  • Effective on distressed leather
  • Great for tack and saddles
  • Quiets squeaky leather
Cons
  • May darken lighter leathers
  • Does not hide scratches on leather
Bottom Line
Skidmore's Original Leather Cream is an effective product for restoring and preserving leather items. It is easy to use and can bring life back to old and faded leather. However, it may darken lighter leathers and does not hide scratches.
Pros
  • Effective in removing stains and dirt from leather.
  • Softens the leather and makes it less sticky.
  • Colorless and odorless.
  • Absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a greasy film.
  • Reasonably priced.
Cons
  • May make seats slippery.
  • Some bottles may leak.
Bottom Line
Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner is an effective and reasonably priced product that cleans and conditions leather, but may not work on all types of leather and may not be worth the price for some buyers.
Pros
  • Effective in cleaning leather items, including shoes, bags, and gloves.
  • Easy to use.
  • Reasonably priced.
  • Packaging seals tightly to prevent the product from drying out.
  • Can help soften and bring back life to old leather items.
Cons
  • Can strip dye from leather items.
  • Tin can be difficult to open and close.
Bottom Line
Kiwi Saddle Soap is an effective and affordable option for cleaning and softening leather items. However, it may not work on all leather items and can strip dye from some. The tin can be difficult to open and close, but the packaging seals tightly to prevent the product from drying out.
Pros
  • Effective in cleaning and restoring leather furniture and accessories.
  • Pleasant smell.
  • Good customer service.
  • Works well on hard leather surfaces.
  • Thoroughly cleans and conditions leather.
Cons
  • Bottle cap makes it difficult to work with.
  • May not work on all types of leather.
Bottom Line
Leather Honey is an effective product for cleaning and restoring leather furniture and accessories. It has a pleasant smell and good customer service. However, the bottle cap can be difficult to work with and the product may not work on all types of leather.
Pros
  • Effective in removing stains and smells from leather.
  • Easy to apply and spread.
  • Works on both white and black leather.
  • Reconditions older dried out leather items.
  • Softens and removes stains that other products have failed to touch.
Cons
  • May darken light-colored leather if not removed quickly.
  • Cleaning properties are minimal.
Bottom Line
This leather cleaner is effective in removing stains and smells from leather, easy to apply, and affordable. However, it may darken light-colored leather if not removed quickly and the cleaning properties are minimal.
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