Detail a Car with a Leather Interior Using a Steamer

Detailing a car with leather seats and interior has a more delicate process than a car with cloth seats. It requires that you use the right products and equipment, ensuring that your leather stays clean, soft, and hydrated. Begin by setting up your work station and having your supplies handy. Wear your safety gear then start by cleaning the interior. Finish by applying a coat of protection to prolong the life of the leather for you to enjoy for many more years to come.

Steps

Setting Up Your Workstation

  1. Clean your work area. Having a clean and organized work area is important to get any job done efficiently.
  2. Gather all your cleaning supplies and prep your equipment. Start by adding hot water to the steamer and turning on the steamer. Dilute the degreaser with water using a 20:1 ratio - 20 parts water 1-part degreaser - in a spray bottle.
  3. Prep the car that you’ll be detailing. Make sure the vehicle is free of any lose and or personal items and from any debris. Use a vacuum to ensure the vehicle’s interior is clean.
  4. Wear your safety goggles and face mask. Always keep your eyes protected when you use cleaning chemicals.

Cleaning

  1. Spray on the degreaser over the leather seat. Direct your attention mostly towards the areas that are heavily stained or that would otherwise require additional attention.
    • Use the soft bristle brush to rub in the degreaser into the leather to get stains out. Wipe down the leather with a microfiber towel. Repeat this process as needed to get the desired result.
  2. Apply the degreaser onto the leather once more. After getting most of the dirt and stains out of the leather, spraying the leather again with the degreaser will provide you with better results.
  3. Use the steamer. Apply it softly on the leather. Be careful here as you don’t want to apply the steamer too hard. This may cause damage to the leather. Applying the steamer gently will clean and rehydrate your leather.
  4. Wipe the leather once more with a microfiber cloth. Dry the leather before continuing. Leave the doors of the vehicle open to allow the leather to air dry.

Conditioning the Leather

  1. Apply leather conditioner on a microfiber cloth or applicator. Older leather may need more conditioner to keep the leather hydrated, soft, and to prevent cracks. Make sure to apply the conditioner when the leather is dry for best results.
  2. Use the leather finish coat on the leather and rub it in with a soft sponge. Don't miss creases on the leather - let the coat sit for up to 5 minutes. Use a microfiber cloth to clean any excess residue. If you wish to apply a second layer, wait at least 30 minutes before applying it.

Tips

  • When scrubbing the leather with the soft bristle brush, start from the top of the seats and work your way down using small circular motions.
  • Use a leather conditioner with UV protection.
  • Finish the car off by adding an air freshener as a finishing touch.

Things You’ll Need

  • Eye protection
  • Face mask
  • Rubber gloves
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Soft bristle brush
  • Sponge
  • Car steamer
  • Degreaser and cleaner
  • Leather conditioner
  • Leather finish and sealer

References

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