Leather Cleaning

As a general rule, leather furniture needs no particular daily care. Every now and again it is advisable to remove dirt and dust from furniture using a soft brush vacuum attachment or a soft duster. Once you are certain that furniture is clean, apply a specialized leather cream cleaner and carefully polish. Make sure all dust and fragments have been removed before you begin polishing to prevent particles from abrading the surface of the leather.

Leather Master leads the industry in high-end, professional leather repair formulas. Their repair products and leather dyes supply professionals all over the world. Leather Master repair products are the premier choice for multi-million dollar aircraft, luxury yachts, and exotic automobiles. Adding Leather and/or Textile Repair to your detailing business opens doors and increases opportunities in new markets.

Leather Types

Leather Master classifies according to cleaning codes and deck labels into the basic categories: (A)-ANILINE/NON-COATED, (P)-PROTECTED/COATED, and (N)-NUBUCK/SUEDE.

(A)-ANILINE/NON-COATED: These leathers are colored with transparent dyes which enable you to see the actual grain and markings. The most common process is to spray a wax finish on their surface which only gives short term water repellence.

To determine if your leather is "Unprotected," lightly scratch the surface to see if it reveals a lighter color, or if leather conditioners or water darken the hide.

(P)-PROTECTED/COATED: This type of leather is also known as "coated" or "painted". These leathers have aspects of a natural finish, but more uniform in appearance. The heavier pigments can create much darker colors. Protected leather has a substantial finish applied that makes the leather more resistant to heavy wear and stains. The heavier pigments and finish do affect the softness and scent, so these leathers often don't feel or smell like real leather.

To determine if your leather is Protected, lightly scratch the surface to see if it leaves a lighter color, or if cleaners and conditioners remain on the surface. Liquids will not penetrate Protected leather.

These leathers will also have a sheen or even shine. It's like looking at wood with a lacquer finish opposed to a wipe-on oil finish. These leathers are more common in the automotive industry.

(N)-NUBUCK/SUEDE: Sometimes called "Distressed", "Bomber" or "Suede" this type of leather is actually an "Unprotected" finish that has been brushed. Many confuse this finish with Suede leather. Suede is the flesh side of the hide, while Nubuck is an effect created on the grain side, making it incredibly soft. This "brushing" also makes it more absorbent than regular Aniline leathers.

Nubuck leather will have a texture similar to velvet. If you move your hand across the surface, the nap will change appearance similar to vacuuming carpet. Liquids will darken this type of leather. It is popular for home furnishings, as well as the fashion industry.