Looking after Leather

[Sir Bagalot]

Recently bought a car, and for the first time I have a full leather interior (5 series).

I wash my own car and whilst not really wishing to go down the full detailing route I do want to know how/what to use to clean and look after the leather.

Also, whats the best way to get rid of tar spots? Car was previously treated with BMW Seal & Protect.

[T5XARV]

I've always used Gliptone's cleaner and separate leather conditioner with great results.
As for removing tar spots try AutoGlym Intensive Tar Remover....
As for the generic stuff the dealership applied when the car was new, you're better off starting from scratch.....wash with Fairy Liquid, yes Fairy liquid to remove all other products before claying the entire bodywork, machine polish, wax then seal.
If you really want to get into it, go over to detailingworld.....but be prepared to invest mucho dinero and many hours.
So satisfying though !

Edited by T5XARV on Friday 1st April 01:04

[Fermit The Krog and Sarah Sexy]

Speaking as a leather restoration specialist of four years:

Where leather maintenance is concerned there are a few basic rules. Any cleaner wants to be PH neutral, and alcohol free. If it smells like it's going to knock your head off it's probably too strong. Never used baby wipes to clean leather. Avoid any product containing silicone or wax. Cleaning little and often is best. Where cleaning and protecting products are concerned I recommend LTT Leather Care at Harrogate.

Depending where you are I can restore the finish of leather car seats back to brand new, contact me if of any interest.

[TerrysAMG]

I can second gliptone, used on many cars, the conditioner leaves a nice new leather smell.

[PositronicRay]

I always thought conditioning modern painted leathers as a bit pointless. Nothing seems to penetrate the surface.

[EazyDuz]

I use a Harveys sofa cleaning and conditioning kit with great results. Sometimes come up cheap on EBay

[Summit_Detailing]

Dr Leather or LTT products will see you well.

PositronicRay said:

I always thought conditioning modern painted leathers as a bit pointless. Nothing seems to penetrate the surface.

Correct, conditioning modern leather is counter productive as it just sits on the surface attracting dirt.
Far better to use a leather protector like LTT Auto Protect or Dr Leather Dye Block after initial deep clean.

cheers

Chris

[Fermit The Krog and Sarah Sexy]

PositronicRay said:

I always thought conditioning modern painted leathers as a bit pointless. Nothing seems to penetrate the surface.

+2. You can't condition a material buried beneath pigment, opposed to dyed leather which is porous.

[Fermit The Krog and Sarah Sexy]

Summit_Detailing said:

Correct, conditioning modern leather is counter productive as it just sits on the surface attracting dirt.
Far better to use a leather protector like LTT Auto Protect or Dr Leather Dye Block after initial deep clean.

cheers

Chris

Hi Chris. Do you have Judy at LTT as a contact through your work? For detailing and looking after leather she is a great contact.