To retain its beauty and other desirable
qualities, leather requires frequent conditioning to replace the natural
lubricants lost during normal use.
With many parts of the nation
already experiencing the summer heat, it's a good idea to care
and protect the leather in your vehicle. Creative Colors
International, one of the largest franchises in the repair,
reconditioning and color restoration of leather, vinyl, fabric,
plastics and carpeting, offers the following useful information
for extending and enhancing the life of your vehicle's leather.
To retain its beauty and other
desirable qualities, leather requires frequent conditioning to
replace the natural lubricants lost during normal use. With the
proper care, leather can be protected from excessive dryness
that can cause it to crack, and from moisture that may cause it
to swell or mildew.
Because unprotected leather is susceptible to spotting from
water and other liquids, a newly purchased leather item should
be treated immediately to help prevent permanent stains from
occurring. Be sure to use only the proper protection for your
particular type of leather.
1.
The
use of too much oil or wax can clog pores, causing leather to
lose its ability to allow air in and moisture out. For the best
protection, we recommend a mild dishwashing soap. Ivory liquid
dishwashing soap is an excellent way to keep your leather clean
and looking new. One part Ivory to 10 parts water.
2.
Dairy
products that spill on darker dyed leather will leave a spot.
After cleaning, the oils in the dairy products will eventually
rise back up to the surface. Try and be careful with any dairy
product next to your leather.
3.
Lighter colored leather needs to be cleaned often. Dirt, dust
and clothing will leave traces on leather. Especially, black and
dark-blue dyed jeans.
4.
Never
use preparations made for smooth leather on suede or "rough out"
leather. Use only cleaners or preparations made specifically for
suede.
