How to Clean Leather Car and Motorcycle Seats

Maintaining the pristine condition of your leather car and motorcycle seats is essential for both aesthetics and longevity. Proper care ensures that your seats remain comfortable, free from damage, and visually appealing.

This guide provides detailed instructions on how to clean leather car and motorcycle seats, covering frequency, reasons, cleaning products, and step-by-step cleaning processes.

How often to clean car and motorcycle seats

We recommend that you clean and protect your car and motorcycle seats 6-8 times a year, cleaning seats that get used frequently the most and those that often go untouched less frequently.

Leather car and motorcycle seats should be cleaned and conditioned regularly to maintain their appearance and durability.

Here’s a general guideline on how often you should clean your seats:

Routine Cleaning

• Weekly: Light dusting and wiping down with a damp cloth.
• Bi-weekly: Use a leather cleaner to remove dirt and grime buildup.

Deep Cleaning

• Monthly: Deep cleaning with a specialized leather cleaner and conditioner.
• Quarterly: Comprehensive cleaning and conditioning session, especially if seats are exposed to harsh elements or heavy usage.

Why you should clean your leather car and motorcycle seats

Dirt and oil collect on seats easily.  You usually can’t see this fine layer of mess, but it acts as an abrasive surface, making tiny scratches on and wearing down the top layer found on the vast majority of leather vehicle seats. Once that layer is worn down, the leather is more susceptible to all kinds of damage.

Also, leather is naturally very porous, so, once the protective layer has been worn down, it soaks up the dirt and oils left standing on its surface.  Even before you can see the effects of this damage, the leather is collecting the dirt and oil it soaks up on the back side of the leather.  Once there is enough on the back side, it will eventually seep to the front and discolor the leather.

Here’s the key reasons why to keep your seats clean at a glance:

Aesthetic Appeal

• Maintains Appearance: Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt, grime, and stains, keeping your seats looking new.
• Enhances Shine: Proper conditioning adds a subtle sheen, making the leather look vibrant and well-maintained.

Longevity

• Prevents Cracking: Dirt and oils can cause the leather to dry out and crack over time. Cleaning and conditioning keep the leather supple.
• Avoids Discoloration: Regular maintenance prevents discoloration caused by UV rays, body oils, and spills.

Comfort and Hygiene

• Removes Allergens: Dust, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate on leather seats. Regular cleaning helps reduce these allergens.
• Eliminates Odors: Sweat and spills can lead to unpleasant odors. Cleaning ensures your seats remain fresh and pleasant.

What to use to clean leather car and motorcycle seats

Use a soft cleaner made specifically for leather.  You can get leather cleaners at most auto enthusiast shops, and Fibrenew franchisees all sell them.  Before you pick a cleaner, you should read our guide on leather cleaning products.

Cleaning Supplies

• Leather Cleaner: A specialized leather cleaner designed to remove dirt without damaging the material.
• Leather Conditioner: A conditioner helps keep the leather supple and prevents cracking.
• Microfiber Cloths: Soft, non-abrasive cloths for applying cleaner and conditioner.
• Soft Brush: A gentle brush for scrubbing dirt from creases and seams.
• Vacuum Cleaner: For removing loose dirt and debris before cleaning.

Optional Supplies

• Leather Protectant: Provides an additional layer of protection against spills and UV rays.
• Disposable Gloves: Protects your hands from chemicals during cleaning

How to clean auto and bike seats

You should check out the directions on the bottles of the cleaner and protection cream you buy, but, generally speaking, you should:

1. Preparation
   • Vacuum: Remove loose dirt and debris with a vacuum cleaner, focusing on seams and crevices.
   • Test Cleaner: Always test the leather cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t discolor the leather.
2. Cleaning
   • Apply Cleaner: Spray or apply the leather cleaner to a microfiber cloth, not directly onto the leather.
   • Wipe Down: Gently wipe the seats in a circular motion, ensuring you cover all areas.
   • Scrub Creases: Use a soft brush to clean seams and creases where dirt accumulates.
3. Conditioning
   • Apply Conditioner: Once the seats are clean and dry, apply a small amount of leather conditioner to a microfiber cloth.
   • Rub In: Gently rub the conditioner into the leather using circular motions, allowing it to penetrate.
   • Buff: After the conditioner has been absorbed (check the product’s instructions), buff the seats with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove any excess and enhance the shine.
4. Finishing Touches
   • Protectant Application: If using a leather protectant, apply it as the final step to provide additional protection against future spills and UV damage.
   • Inspection: Ensure all areas are clean, conditioned, and free from streaks or residue.

By following these steps and using the right products, you can maintain the beauty and durability of your leather car and motorcycle seats, ensuring they remain a source of pride and comfort for years to come. Regular maintenance not only enhances the appearance but also extends the life of your leather seats, providing a worthwhile investment in the longevity of your vehicle’s interior.