The Best stuff to clean leather on Jeep [Archive] - JeepGarage.Org

JTS97Z28

01-31-2011, 06:17 AM

Lexol is probably a pretty good recommendation for easily available stuff, however I have been a fan of Zaino products and use them on my Z06 vette. Its very popular detailing products over in the Corvette community.

Zaino makes a spray leather cleaner then use Zaino leather in a bottle conditioner. The leather in a bottle is the absolute best smelling leather product I have ever used.

James

raider91e

01-31-2011, 07:48 AM

do these products leave a shine on the leather? im trying to avoid that, id like to keep the matte factory finish for the leather...

mrpositraction

01-31-2011, 07:52 AM

I have some stuff I bought from Fukken and I like, but it leaves the leather shiny. It looks greasy but it is not. I also enjoy the smell of this product.

SixZeroFour

01-31-2011, 08:16 AM

Another fantastic product for almost all surfaces other than paint is 303 Aerospace protectant. This is widely used in professional detailing and has worked wonders on my past 3 vehicles. Best of all it does not leave any greasy feel to the material, it just cleanes and restores to like-new and has more of a factory matte finish rather than shiny look of armor all or many others.

Also workes great on: Softtouch interior trim, exterior plastic mouldings, tires, etc etc etc.

Here is the link to their website but it can be found at many auto parts stores:
http://www.303products.com/shop303/index.cfm/category/65/303-aerospace-protectant.cfm

Highly recommended! :thumbsup:

StoneCold

01-31-2011, 08:16 AM

A small drop of baby shampoo on a damp cloth works really well.

moosehead

01-31-2011, 08:35 AM

^moistening the cloth first is a great method, especially for the perforated, ventilated seats. just spraying any cleaner or conditioner directly onto the seats could clog these pin holes.

StoneCold

01-31-2011, 08:44 AM

^moistening the cloth first is a great method, especially for the perforated, ventilated seats. just spraying any cleaner or conditioner directly onto the seats could clog these pin holes.

Yup! And Martyp once told me that you can also put a damp microfibre cloth into the microwave and then place it on the leather and it will draw out a lot of dirt. Obviously it's very time consuming.

SRTILL8

01-31-2011, 08:51 AM

i wish i had the best "staff" to help clean my car. so far my staff just tells me i missed a spot.....:D

hehehe, jk :)

Scottina06

01-31-2011, 09:32 AM

I only use leatherique on my SRT seats and my wifes Lexus. Both still look new

raider91e

01-31-2011, 10:04 AM

I only use leatherique on my SRT seats and my wifes Lexus. Both still look new

Scottina, does the leatherique leave a glossy or matte finish? I looked at their website and it looks like an effective product. I've tried Lexol and some others but like I said before, all of them seem to leave a glossy finish and feel somewhat oily. I'd like a product that leaves that matte finish and leaves the leather supple and soft without being greasy

SixZeroFour

01-31-2011, 10:08 AM

Scottina, does the leatherique leave a glossy or matte finish? I looked at their website and it looks like an effective product. I've tried Lexol and some others but like I said before, all of them seem to leave a glossy finish and feel somewhat oily. I'd like a product that leaves that matte finish and leaves the leather supple and soft without being greasy

Try the 303 Aerospace!

BLACK DOG

01-31-2011, 10:16 AM

Lexol leather cleaner followed by Lexol leather treatment is probably the best off the shelf product. I've been using it on my vehicles for 20 years and have not found anything that's significantly better. http://www.lexol.com/

I agree... Lexol Conditioner, but I use saddle soap as a cleaner, work both into the leather and stitching with a soft brush and wipe off excess

raider91e

01-31-2011, 10:17 AM

Try the 303 Aerospace!

haha...I'm actually looking into it now...have you tried the fabric guard too? I'm thinking about using it on the carpets...i hate the residue that the salt and grime leaves where people didnt step onto the slushpads

Scottina06

01-31-2011, 10:31 AM

Dougcjohn

01-31-2011, 10:33 AM

All products & methods suggested I've tried w success! IMO, I like the non-slick dry feel of the Lexol dressing the best! I would agree, the Zaino has a very nice smell. As an oil dressing treatment, another consideration is what color interior... if light colors; many of the dressings over time darken leather as the oil soaks into leather. The Lexol-NF product doesn't darken leather and leaves a dry soft finish. I mainly use the Lexol-NF product for all colors because I've noticed a little less dust collection too. Most important, I would agree with the other comments is to clean thoroughly before applying any oil dressing.

TJXJWJ

01-31-2011, 10:36 AM

I've used the fabric protectant on my wranglers soft top...it stinks...not sure you'll want to spray it inside your Jeep. It did an amazing job, just stunk.

I scotchguard the interior carpeting and use Weathertech mats...no salt stain issues.

SixZeroFour

01-31-2011, 12:07 PM

haha...I'm actually looking into it now...have you tried the fabric guard too? I'm thinking about using it on the carpets...i hate the residue that the salt and grime leaves where people didnt step onto the slushpads

Haven't tried the fabric guard yet but do recall hearing positive reviews about it. I ended up going with the Weathertech mats to protect the carpet.

Based on the positive comments here I may have to give the lexol a shot but it has it's work cut out for it to replace the 303 in my garage. I love being able to grab one bottle to do essentially the whole interior, all black plastic trim on the exterior, tires and more.

BLACK DOG

01-31-2011, 01:13 PM

Haven't tried the fabric guard yet but do recall hearing positive reviews about it. I ended up going with the Weathertech mats to protect the carpet.

Based on the positive comments here I may have to give the lexol a shot but it has it's work cut out for it to replace the 303 in my garage. I love being able to grab one bottle to do essentially the whole interior, all black plastic trim on the exterior, tires and more.

IMO one product for all things is a compromise at best, leather needs a proper leather treatment to make it last, saddle soap and lexol conditioner and or NF oil are time proven products. I would clean with the soap ( which also has a protectant/conditioner in it) even on new seats to remove any protectant work it into the pores with a soft brush then wipe down with a clean towel.First treatment after cleaning I like to slop the conditioner on and agitate with a soft brush and work it in on smooth leather leaving an even wet coat then let it sit over night, most or all of the conditioner will soak right into the leather by morning then just buff them down with a towel now all you need is a wipe down with conditioner on a cloth when you clean out the interior. On perforated leather I would not make it so wet, probably work off a cloth , but its ok to get soap or conditioner in the holes just don't really soak it. Both products finish clear and will seal edges of punch holes and prevent liquids from seeping into the cushion if you wipe it up right away.brush excess from perfs with a shoe brush wipe with a cloth, yer done. Your leather will love you and look great for years.

SixZeroFour

01-31-2011, 01:50 PM

IMO one product for all things is a compromise at best

Have you ever used the 303?

Normally I would agree with the compromise statement but IMO it does not apply here. I have a collection of detailing products that would make most people sick to their stomachs (esp the wife!) and this is one of my most used products. It also offers superior UV protection compared to most other products out there.

BTW - hello to a fellow BC'er!

BLACK DOG

01-31-2011, 05:33 PM

Have you ever used the 303?

Normally I would agree with the compromise statement but IMO it does not apply here. I have a collection of detailing products that would make most people sick to their stomachs (esp the wife!) and this is one of my most used products. It also offers superior UV protection compared to most other products out there.

BTW - hello to a fellow BC'er!
Hello, I'm in New West, where in Vancouver are you?

No I haven't tried the 303...leather needs more than just uv protection I have used saddle soap and lexol for years on any smooth leather and always had excellent results. I would not hesitate to try the 303 on plastic,vinyl or rubber, but leather needs softeners, oils to keep it supple and protect it from cracking.
don't take my word for gospel, ask a shoemaker or leather crafter what they recommend. (Lexol will leave a low shine but not oily resadue)
BTW I have enough detail products maybe to make even you sick :rolleyes:

BLACK DOG

01-31-2011, 05:52 PM

A small drop of baby shampoo on a damp cloth works really well.

Aaron, You Scots are soo thrifty...

StoneCold

02-01-2011, 01:41 AM

Aaron, You Scots are soo thrifty...

:lol: Well there is a recession on...:worried::whistle::lol: It does work honest:D

SixZeroFour

02-01-2011, 08:15 AM

Hello, I'm in New West, where in Vancouver are you?

I'm across the Port Mann in Langley - small world!

By no means am I saying that the saddle soap/lexol is bad! I'm sure it works great and has for a long time, I just wanted to offer up another idea for those looking for alternatives. My last post might have come across wrong... I wasn't trying to be cocky or anything about the detail products, I was just trying to put things in perspective so people didnt think I picked up any old cleaner and thought it was the best thing on the planet.

Is your detailing collection because you are an avid enthusiast or do you do it for a living? What are your other detailing fav's?

DetailedImage.com

02-01-2011, 09:19 AM

For carpets, mats, dashboard, console, doors, arm rests, etc. I highly recommend the 303 Cleaner & Spot Remover (http://www.detailedimage.com/303-M2/Cleaner-Spot-Remover-P15/32-oz-S1/). It's a very gentle yet highly effective cleaner that leaves no residue behind. As for the leather if you want my favorite product I'd highly recommend the Leatherique Prestine Clean (http://www.detailedimage.com/Leatherique-M8/Prestine-Clean-P64/16-oz-S1/) and Leatherique Rejuvenator Oil (http://www.detailedimage.com/Leatherique-M8/Rejuvenator-Oil-P65/16-oz-S1/). It's the best formula I have ever used to restore and maintain leather and leatherette seats. If you want a one step process try the Poorboy's World Leather Stuff (http://www.detailedimage.com/Poorboys-World-M1/Leather-Stuff-P126/16-oz-S1/). We offer 10% off to forum members as well with the coupon code 10offJG. If you have any other questions please let me know.

SixZeroFour

02-01-2011, 11:13 AM

Here is a link with some more good info on Leather Care.

Be sure to pay attention to the protected leather details (vinyl or urethane coated) and how it changes the way it should be cared for.

http://detailingwiki.com/index.php5?title=Basic_Automotive_Leather_Care

Google is also another great resourse for finding more info on treating coated vs raw.

BLACK DOG

02-01-2011, 02:15 PM

By no means am I saying that the saddle soap/lexol is bad! I'm sure it works great and has for a long time, I just wanted to offer up another idea for those looking for alternatives. My last post might have come across wrong... I wasn't trying to be cocky or anything about the detail products, I was just trying to put things in perspective so people didnt think I picked up any old cleaner and thought it was the best thing on the planet.

I'm just an Rabid enthusiast...I was not being critical of your choice, and did not mean to come across that way. i'm sure the 303 is a fine product,The post asks for the best "staff" to clean leather...I won't recommend any product I haven't tried myself. I have in the past used stuff bought from canadian tire, ie; mothers, meguires, turtle, wax etc. and spent all day hand washing and waxing... last fall I decided to try detailing on a higher level... having no ball and chain to hold me down, and plenty o credit cards, I went on a spree.(not quite finished yet) :rolleyes:
Now I'm going to be able to compare a cyclo to a flex, pinnacle to wolfgang to dodo and poorboys,probably got enough stuff to keep me active until my retirement terminates.:p (haven't quite started the retirement yet, maybe 1 more contract...closer and closer, inch by inch, step by step):eek:

SixZeroFour

02-01-2011, 03:13 PM

How did you like the Poorboys? It's next on my list of products to try after reading many good reviews. The last three I put through the paces were Zaino, Adams and most recently Collinite's.

BLACK DOG

02-01-2011, 03:32 PM

We are going off topic here...and I have to get ready for work, I'll pm you later...

andylcg

04-07-2011, 01:34 PM

I use Tanner leather cleaner and conditioner, smells great and works well.

Martyp

04-07-2011, 01:59 PM

I've started using Autoglym Leather Cleaner and it works a treat with a really soft leather brush.

I warm the seats with a hair dryer first to open the pours, spray and work in the cleaner, wipe it off with a dry cloth the using a damp MF which has been in the microwave for a minute to wipe them over which essentially 'conditions' them.

My seats are creme, so I use a leather protector on top.

You do not need to use Leather Conditioner, it does absolutely nothing on modern car leather and if anything actually makes things worse. If you have dark colored leather all you need to do is clean it and wipe over with a damp MF every now and then.

The conditioner does not get to the leather and can actually break down the top coat which is a type of lacquer. To prevent color transfer on light leather track down a good leather protector, I use LTT products but they are UK based.

---------- Post added at 12:59 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:55 PM ----------

Forgot to add, cleaning carpets I use Meguairs all purpose cleaner (APC) at either 10:1 or 4:1, depends either what's been mixed or how bad the stain is. :)

DetailedImage.com

04-10-2011, 06:44 PM

The Leatherique Prestine Clean (http://www.detailedimage.com/Leatherique-M8/Prestine-Clean-P64/16-oz-S1/) and Leatherique Rejuvenator Oil (http://www.detailedimage.com/Leatherique-M8/Rejuvenator-Oil-P65/16-oz-S1/) is an amazing product. Check out this article to see before and after pics (http://www.detailedimage.com/Ask-a-Pro/leatherique-leather-care-how-to/)!

paroxysym

04-11-2011, 11:54 AM

i use lexol products right now on my leather seats. the leatherique looks like a great product- however i cant be without my vehicle for a long period of time while a cleaner works on my seats. ill be looking into the zaino products or maybe keep browsing the site for more feedback on products

boldd

05-20-2011, 04:20 PM

paroxysym

07-20-2011, 12:54 PM

I needed to quickly clean some dust off my black leather seats and dash on my 2011 Overland. I used some Meguiar's wipes. I've never used them before and have thrown them out. They left a glossy, uneven, almost silicone type residue on the dash and door panels. Has anyone ever tried Danier leather products from jackets on their car?

i used them too and they were nice for a quick wipe down. it says to wipe them down with a microfibre clothe after youre done wiping them down with the wipes.