How to care for car leather. Car interior care. Benefits of applying protective varnish

Modern car interior leather cleaners allow you to get rid of almost any, even hard-to-remove and old stains, like on the surface genuine leather, and leatherette (dermantine and others). When choosing a particular cleaner, experts recommend buying two separate products - the cleaner itself (to remove dirt from the surface) and the conditioner (to care for leather interior elements). Commercially available universal formulations (2 in 1 or even 3 in 1) are often not as effective as their highly specialized counterparts.

A high-quality cleanser for the leather interior of a car not only removes dirt, but also moisturizes and nourishes the skin, restores its natural structure and color, polishes, destroys harmful microorganisms, and neutralizes unpleasant odors. Currently, there is a wide selection of such products on the market, but many of them can be found on the Internet with conflicting reviews. Our team has compiled a rating of popular effective means for removing dirt from leather surfaces.

How to choose an interior leather cleaner

Before you buy a car interior leather cleaning product, you need to decide on the requirements that it must satisfy. It is believed that a good car interior leather cleaner should:

• efficiently cope with the removal of any contaminants (oil, mud, dust, etc.), without harming the surface;
• moisturize and nourish the skin with nutrients for its long-term use and beautiful appearance;
• if necessary, restore the damaged structure or lost former color;
• create a special oleophobic film that protects the skin from the harmful effects of moisture;
• provide protective polishing during processing;
• destroy harmful pathogenic microorganisms (harmful to humans, in particular, their respiratory system, and for the surface of leather elements);
• neutralize unpleasant odors (instead, it is advisable to distribute your own pleasant aroma).

The next point that you need to pay attention to is the aggregate form of the composition. Thus, currently on the market there are skin cleansers in aerosols, powders, oils and creams. As practice shows, the quality of cleaning is not affected by the state of aggregation, so the choice must be made based on the points listed above and efficiency (we will mention this below). Despite the varieties, the method of using them is approximately the same, and consists in applying a certain amount of the composition to the contaminated surface and rubbing it with a rag or napkin.

When selecting a cleanser for old (including worn) leather, you must choose products that contain special oils. They are designed to create a protective layer on the skin after cleansing, soften it and prevent stretching. In this case, it also makes sense to buy softening pastes or creams with a gloss effect and tinting.

How to clean interior leather

Before using the cleaner, you must carefully read the instructions; they are usually printed on the packaging or included with it. In most cases, the cleaning foam is rubbed over the contaminated surface, some time is waited for some of it to be absorbed and dissolve the dirt, and then the foam is removed using a rag, brush or microfiber. In some cases, the foam can be removed with a dry cloth. Please note that when cleaning, it is advisable to choose a place where direct sunlight will not fall on the treated leather surface.

Before cleaning, be sure to vacuum the seats (both the surface and the seams) so that dust and small debris during the cleaning process do not act as an abrasive and scratch the skin!

In some cases, the cleaning process must be carried out in two or even three stages. In this case, after each time, the surface must be wiped dry or allowed to dry on its own (depending on the specific product). The instructions usually indicate the time between such sessions; as a rule, it is about 20...40 minutes.

If you are not sure that the purchased product will not harm the leather covering of the car interior, then it makes sense to test it somewhere on a small and inconspicuous area of ​​​​leather or on similar material outside the cabin. After application, you need to wait some time to make sure that unpleasant consequences do not manifest themselves in the future.

After cleansing, it is advisable to use so-called conditioners - skin restorers. They are designed to create a protective layer on the leather surface of the upholstery and extend its service life and return it to its original appearance (not all, you need to check for a specific product). Also remember that Conditioners should not be applied to dirty skin! Therefore, before applying a protective agent, the leather surface must first be cleaned, even if no direct traces of dirt are visible on it.

Rating of popular skin cleansers

You can find it on the Internet a large number of conflicting reviews and tests of certain interior cleaners. Moreover, there are often situations when the same product helps to get rid of pollution in one case, but not in another. The reason for this may be the quality and specificity of the leather covering, the nature and degree of contamination, as well as the possible purchase of a counterfeit composition.

Based on the reviews we found about car interior leather cleaners, our team compiled a rating of popular products used by domestic car enthusiasts. The rating is not of a commercial nature and does not advertise any product. Its purpose is only to provide the most objective information about actually used cleaners. If you have had a positive or negative experience using one of the listed or not listed products, leave your opinion in the comments.

This product is an aerosol-type foam skin cleanser. It can also clean other surfaces in the car interior - fabric seats, upholstery, dashboard, decorative elements. Numerous positive reviews and real tests suggest that the Hi Gear Proline Leather Cleaner & Conditioner is one of the best among its analogues, and the best in our rating. It really effectively cleans the leather surface even from old stains, and works well on both new and worn (worn) leather. Therefore, it is definitely recommended for purchase.

Moreover, the product is not only a cleaner, but also a conditioner. This means that after its use, a high-tech synthetic polymer remains on the leather surface, which, in addition to protection, provides a luxurious, non-greasy shine. This polymer also protects the interior leather from repeated contamination and exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Please note that this purifier can only be used at positive ambient temperatures. It should not be applied to hot (heated) surfaces.! It is advisable to check its compatibility with the skin dye before use by applying it to some inconspicuous area of ​​the skin. In general, the method of its application is traditional. So, the product must be applied in an even layer over the surface to be cleaned, and wait one or two minutes to allow it to absorb into the dirt. After this, use a cotton or microfiber cloth to remove dirt. Hi Gear Proline Leather Cleaner & Conditioner should not be used on suede surfaces!

Sold in a 340 milliliter can. Product code - HG5218. The price as of summer 2018 is about 500 rubles.

It is an aerosol-type foam cleaner. Real tests show its high efficiency in combating even heavy dirt on the leather surfaces of car interior elements. It has not only cleansing, but also restorative properties; after using it, the skin looks “fresh”. This is especially true for natural leather, which becomes even more pleasant to the touch. The polymer layer remaining after applying the product to the surface protects the skin from fading, clouding, drying out, and cracking. The product also helps hide scratches and minor abrasions. It’s interesting that it can be used not only in the car interior, but also in everyday life! However, you cannot use it to clean surfaces made of suede, nubuck, or Alcantara.

Before use, the container must be shaken well. After this, apply foam to the surface to be treated from a distance of 20...25 cm. According to the instructions, you don’t need to wait, so you can immediately rub the product with a rag or sponge, thereby removing dirt. When removing old stains, it can be used in two procedures. Runway got into second place due to its advantage - low price. Avoid getting the cleaner on your skin, much less your eyes! In case of contact, wash off the product with water.

Sold in a 400 ml can. Packaging code - RW6124. Its price for the above period is about 190 rubles.

The product is sold in the form of a lotion, and it is quite thick. The cleaner removes dirt well, even old ones. It not only has a cleansing effect, but also moisturizes and protects natural skin. Due to the fact that the product contains conditioning additives with aloe extract, the skin retains its elasticity for a long time after application and also gives it a new “fresh” look. In addition, it is preserved thanks to a protective layer that resists ultraviolet radiation. Does not leave a greasy shine. The cleaner contains no solvents.

As mentioned above, it comes in a lotion bottle. But before use, it is still recommended to shake the bottle well. Then, using a rag or sponge, thoroughly rub the applied product, thereby removing dirt. If the dirt is old, you can use the cleaner in two passes.

Sold in a 414 ml bottle. Its article number is G7214. The price of the bottle is about 790 rubles.

Quite an effective complex product made in the USA. Designed for cleaning and restoring not only leather, but also vinyl and plastic surfaces. Therefore, it can be used to clean dashboards, bumpers, and moldings. The product is positioned as “2 in 1”. That is, it not only cleans, but also prevents the appearance of dirt, cracks, abrasions, relieves static tension (because of this, dust does not settle on the surface), removes from the interior Not nice smell. Sold in three different scents - “Classic”, “New Car” and “Lemon”.

The method of use is traditional. It is necessary to apply a certain amount of cleaner to the contaminated surface, wait about one minute, and then use a rag (preferably cotton) or a napkin to remove foam and dirt. The tests carried out show that it copes well with the task of cleaning the skin (though only with non-old stains), but it does not restore abrasions on plastic. It tolerates frost well without losing its properties, and the smell quickly disappears. Treated surfaces become glossy and very slippery.

Sold in a 236 ml bottle. The article number for the product with the “Classic” scent is DW5226, similarly the article number for the product with the “New Car” scent is DW5244, and the article number for the product with the “Lemon” scent is DW5248. Their price, regardless of flavor, is approximately 350 rubles.

The manufacturer positions it not only as a leather cleanser, but also as a conditioner. That is, after cleaning, it performs protective functions, forming a protective layer, gives the surface softness and elasticity, protects against dryness and cracking, as well as fading in the sun, removes unpleasant odors, and instead fills the interior with its own pleasant aroma. In addition to the car interior, it can be used for domestic purposes, for example, for caring for leather furniture. In addition to leather, it can be used for processing vinyl and rubber.

Real tests have shown that this product copes quite effectively with fresh and not very strong stains. If you are dealing with old dirt, then Astrochim is unlikely to help you. It is also noted that you need to wait quite a long time until the composition dissolves stubborn dirt. However, the cleaner has undeniable advantage- low price.

Sold in packages of two volumes - 250 ml and 500 ml. In the first case, it is a regular bottle, and in the second, it is a bottle with a manual sprayer. The article number of the small package is AC840, the large one is AC855. Accordingly, the prices are 110 rubles and 160 rubles.

The tool is similar to the previous one. Shows average effectiveness in fighting dirt. While it can remove more or less fresh stains, it cannot remove stubborn stains, even after several attempts. In accordance with the manufacturer's description, the product contains conditioning additives that reliably protect the leather surface from ultraviolet radiation, cracking, abrasions, and premature aging.

To use the cleaner, apply a small amount of it to a sponge or rag, and then apply the product to the contaminated surface. After this, you need to wait a little until the product is absorbed. Next, using a dry rag or napkin, you need to thoroughly polish the surface. Car enthusiasts note that it takes quite a lot of time for the cleaner to be well absorbed into the dirt.

Sold in 500 ml packaging. Packaging code - FG7715. Its price is 450 rubles.

Liqui Moly Leder-Pflege

This conditioner is placed in last place for several reasons. Firstly, its characteristics are more suitable for skin care products, and not a cleanser, as it is positioned. The reason for this is its weak cleansing properties. Secondly, the product is quite expensive for a small volume in a package.

The description notes that the cleaner not only cleans leather surfaces, but also protects them from mechanical damage, cracking, aging, prevents drying, gives elasticity, and adds color saturation. In addition to the car interior, the cleaner can be used for domestic purposes. The use of the product is traditional - you need to apply it to the contaminated surface and rub and polish it with a rag.

Sold in small 250 ml cans. Product code - 1554. The price of one package is about 1000 rubles.

Remember that salon leather is a very fancy material. Therefore, periodically (for example, once a month) it makes sense to treat it with special skin care conditioners. This will not only preserve its original appearance, but will also make it easier to get rid of contamination if such occurs in the future.

DIY interior leather cleaner

In addition to the fact that you can purchase special cleaners for the leather interior of your car, there are so-called “folk” cleaning methods, that is, using various household compounds. One of them is:

Alcohol-based wipes (antiseptic). Their children's, refreshing and deodorizing analogues will not work. And the composition of antiseptic wipes includes a small amount of alcohol and surfactants, and with their help it is possible to completely remove minor, non-ingrained contaminants.

Laundry or toilet soap also used to clean interior leather. Liquid is also suitable. However, before use, it is advisable to read its composition so that it does not contain additional specific additives, but only surfactants (this parameter can be indirectly determined by the smell; additives usually have a pungent, repulsive odor). The method of using soap is traditional; for cleaning you need a container with water (bucket, basin), rags (foam sponge) and soap itself. You can dissolve the soap in water or, if it has a liquid consistency, apply directly to the stained area. And remove it with a rag. If the stain is not old and did not appear as a result of chemical reactions, then, as a rule, soap copes with the stains.

It makes sense to use a soft shoe brush to remove dirt from small pores and cracks in the leather.

After removing a stain from a leather surface, it must be wiped dry. It is advisable to then apply it to the area where the stain was. protective cream (conditioner). It contains oils, silicone, wax. If this is not done, then there is a risk that the leather will become stiff and even crack over time. In the case of professional cleaners, this is not necessary (unless expressly stated otherwise), since the listed substances are already present in their composition.

There is another interesting “life hack”. So, to clean leather surfaces you can use a mixture of water and ammonia in proportion 2:1, that is, for example, 100 ml of water needs to be mixed with 50 ml of alcohol. The resulting mixture can be applied to the contaminated surface using a sprayer, and then the dirt can be removed with a rag or sponge. If you don’t have a sprayer, you can simply soak a rag in the solution and use it to remove the dirt. Reviews found on the Internet suggest that this product is very effective at removing even old stains.

Conclusion

Finally, I would like to note that in different stores (and even more so in regions of the country), the range of leather cleansers may differ. This is mainly due to logistics. In addition, new products regularly enter the market, thereby displacing older ones. Try to buy reliable and proven cleaners, including those from the compiled rating. Whenever possible, make purchases in trusted stores.

Friends, after rummaging through the depths of the Internet, I found some interesting material about skin care, I hope it will be useful to you, because the debate about skin care does not stop.

Many car owners prefer cars with leather interiors in the belief that they require less maintenance. “And they are very mistaken,” says Värvi Foorum technical consultant Andree Laumets, “a car with a leather interior requires just more attention. It may be better protected from accidental stains, but in other respects it is more capricious.” The main enemies of the skin are frost, dampness, and sun. Andree Laumets says that debate continues about the impact of air conditioning on the condition of leather interiors. True, if there is a climate control system, no problems arise. From April-May until September, you need to take more active care of leather seats, treating them at least once a month. You shouldn’t console yourself with the thought that our summer is northern: 25-30 degrees Celsius, especially if the car sits closed in the sun for 2-3 days, can have a bad effect on the condition of the leather upholstery, as well as temperature changes.

The older the skin, the more attention
Caring for a leather interior and facial skin is not fundamentally different: the older the leather (for a car dealership this is 3-5 years), the more effort is required. Light skin gets dirty easily, but this does not mean that black is flawless: stains of faded paint are more noticeable on it, and it quickly overheats in the heat. The main thing in caring for a leather interior is cleanliness and good cream or skin oil. Before applying the cream to the leather surface, it is recommended to clean it with a sponge, then neutralize it with a chemical agent using a soft cloth so that the cream is better absorbed, and only then lubricate it. Andree Laumets recommends applying the cream twice, 30 minutes apart, at least on the front seats, since they are used more.

Elasticity is more important than shine and gloss
For older skin, creams enriched with oils are needed, and when choosing between creams that give the skin shine and softening natural creams, it is worth remembering that gloss and elasticity do not always go hand in hand. “From the point of view of a comfortable ride,” says Andree Laumets, “it is more important that the seat leather is soft to the touch and does not stick to the body. The cream must be well absorbed and not harden on the surface, otherwise it prevents the leather from stretching, shortening its service life.” Kalle Kukesman, owner of Meguiar's Pesula manual car wash, gives two more tips for using leather seat care products: try any new product in an inconspicuous place to see if it will spoil the color of the upholstery, and also do not overuse the amount applied means - an excess contributes to the appearance of stains. Kalle Kukesman uses the professional Meguiar's series, adopted by such large automakers as BMW and Mercedes, to treat leather interiors. “If we talk about approximate prices,” notes Andree Laumets, “he works here general rule: good things are rarely cheap. Prices for Meguiar's, for example, start at 300 CZK. When choosing, it makes sense to pay attention to the “age” of the manufacturer - it is advisable that the company be “experienced”, then you can trust the quality of its products.” Difference professional means from those intended for private consumers, is that the former effectively cleanses and renews the skin, while the latter mainly help maintain it in order.

As a last resort - shoe cream
The new auto magazine AutoBild Eesti recommends the Finnish Softcare series for regular care of leather interiors, as well as universal leather upholstery products Salamander Kõmbi Shaum and Tana Saddle Soap. If you don’t have anything at hand, Salamander shoe creams will also work. Of course, priority is given to special products for car dealerships, since they are designed to care for skin that is constantly exposed to extreme conditions. Andree Laumets says that just as a car should undergo a technical inspection after every 10,000 km, it should also be cleaned and treated by a professional at least twice a year. From the point of view of regular maintenance, the experience of the United States is very useful, where the whole family gathers to take care of the car on weekends: “Americans are accustomed to this from a young age!”

The condition of the interior can tell passengers a lot about the owner of the car. That is why careful owners take care of the interior of the car in a timely manner. Otherwise, even dry cleaning will not be able to cope with long-term stains. And you can smear the interior with the most unexpected substances, from food to lubricants. With additional smearing on the surface, it will no longer be possible to remove the contamination with a damp cloth. There are many different compositions for caring for the salon; experts advise paying attention to several points when purchasing.

1. First of all, it is worth considering the interior equipment of the car. If the finishing is made in a fabric version, then foam or aerosol compositions should be selected. After drying, they are removed with a brush or vacuum cleaner. Leather trim should be cleaned with products that not only remove dirt and stains, but provide further protection against harmful factors.
2. Most cleaners, both cheap and expensive, effectively remove fresh dirt. Therefore, it is enough to have even a universal product in the trunk in order to carry out cleaning in a timely manner.
3. You should not blindly trust advertising and hope for the magical properties of expensive drugs. Several reputable automotive magazines and Internet portals have tested commercially available compounds. It turned out that budget cleaners can beat popular brands, losing in such little things as packaging or smell.

Our review includes the best products for cleaning car interiors. When compiling the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:

• cleaning ability of the product;
• appointment;
• specifications;
• expert opinion;
• consumer reviews.

The best skin care products

Leather care in the car interior has a number of features. Therefore, ordinary wet cleaning is not suitable; a special product is required. After using the product, the surface becomes a little sticky; this nuance must be taken into account by car enthusiasts when working with cleaners of this type.

4 RunWay RW6124

Deep penetration
Country: China
Average price: 230 rub. (400 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.6

The Chinese drug RunWay RW6124 is sold on the domestic market at an affordable price. At the same time, the tool allows deep cleaning leather upholstery. The composition contains natural ingredients, thanks to which the liquid is able to reach stubborn stains. At the same time, the conditioner-cleaner restores damaged areas, hides minor scratches and other defects. Natural oils after cleaning give the leather softness and elasticity, protect the upholstery from mechanical stress, fading and drying out. It is not recommended to use the cleaner when caring for materials such as suede, Alcantara and nubuck.

Domestic motorists in their reviews note the pleasant smell of the drug and the effective cleaning of the skin from dust and dirt. One cylinder is enough to clean the interior of an average passenger car. The disadvantages include the slippery surface after the product dries.

3 Turtle Wax LUXE LEATHER

Universal properties
Country: UK
Average price: 350 rub. (500 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.7

Turtle Wax LUXE LEATHER cleaner will help restore the natural shine of natural leather interior. The product has universal qualities; it not only removes dirt from the surface, but also restores natural softness. Glycerin, which is contained in the drug, plays an important role. And the presence of special filters prevents the destructive effects of ultraviolet radiation. The product can be used to remove dirt from different types of leather and leatherettes.

Users in reviews note the ease of application of the drug. The cleaner has a neutral odor, so you can use it not only outside, but also in the garage. If fresh stains are easily removed under the influence of TURTLE WAX chemical compounds, then when cleaning old stubborn stains you need to wait a long time, and rubbing in requires a lot of effort.

2 Liqui Moly Racing Leder-Kombi-Pflege

The most natural composition
Country: Germany
Average price: 760 rub. (250 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.8

German chemists from the Liqui Moly company came up with unique composition, in which the main place was given to natural beeswax. In combination with cleansing components, Liqui Moly Racing Leder-Kombi-Pflege can be used to care for all types of skin. Experts especially note the restoration of the natural shine of the car interior. As for cleaning abilities, a test by the magazine "Behind the Wheel" showed the effectiveness of removing fresh contaminants. But the product does not always cope with old stains. But the treated leather does not crack in the future, does not age and does not absorb moisture.

Car owners have no complaints about Liqui Moly Racing leather cleaner. In the reviews, they speak flatteringly about the ease of use and natural ingredients that give a pleasant smell. The only dissatisfaction among users is the high price.

To keep your car interior clean, all you need to do is follow a number of simple tips.

• Some cars have easily removable seat upholstery. It is easier to dismantle it and then take it to the dry cleaner or put it in the washing machine.
• Before a long vacation trip, it is better to purchase inexpensive T-shirt covers. You won’t even mind throwing them away at the end of the trip.
• Contaminants penetrate faster and deeper into the material when high temperature. You cannot delay cleaning; you should start cleaning as soon as possible.
• Aerosol-type cleaners have a superficial effect. Liquid preparations penetrate more deeply. And foam removes dirt as quickly as possible.
• It is very difficult to deal with pet hair. Even modern cleaners are often powerless. But the use of a protective bedding will prevent lengthy cleaning of the interior.

1 Protectant cleaner DoctorWax

Optimal combination of price and quality
Country: USA
Average price: 350 rub. (236 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.9

The DoctorWax protectant cleaner copes well with both fresh dirt and old stains. Using the composition it is recommended to clean leather, vinyl, and plastic. Experts highlight the optimal combination of price and performance properties. The use of the drug helps to renew the appearance and restore the structure of the skin. Cleaning the surface occurs in one step; after removing the product, no greasy film remains. The composition contains an innovative compound FadeStop(r), which protects the skin from ultraviolet rays.

The protectant cleaner was successfully tested by specialists from the magazine "Behind the Wheel" and was declared the winner. In reviews, car enthusiasts praise the composition for effective removal dirt, neutral non-irritating odor. The disadvantages include the lengthy cleaning process, not perfect care for fair skin.

The best all-purpose cleaners

Universal cleaners allow you to maintain cleanliness in the car interior, as well as on individual body parts. They are able to remove stuck insects and chewing gum, stubborn stains from food and petroleum products. Russian manufacturers occupy the leading positions in this category.

3 Grass Universal Cleaner

Best price
Country Russia
Average price: 90 rub. (500 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.7

Many experts who tested the Grass Universal Cleaner interior cleaner were initially skeptical about the cheapest product. But research has shown the consistency of the composition, it has repeatedly been among the leaders of the rating, and the magazine “Behind the wheel” awarded the honorary title “Choice of ZR”. The best price was not the only advantage of the drug. Tests revealed good foaming, effective removal of any contaminants, including chewing gum. After processing the surfaces from different materials There is no sticky residue left, typical of budget formulations.

Experts and users call the outdated packaging the only significant drawback of the Grass Universal Cleaner interior cleaner. The drug has to be poured into the cap and diluted in water. The working concentration should be in the range of 50-100 g/l.

2 ELTRANS EL-0404.01

Wide range of applications
Country Russia
Average price: 110 rub. (500 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.8

A universal car cleaner is the Russian drug ELTRANS. It can be used to care for both the interior of the car and the body. The concentrate has no restrictions on the temperature of use. It removes quickly and efficiently different types contaminants, from stuck insects to stains ingrained into the upholstery. The product can be used to care for plastic and rubber, carpets and upholstery, painted and metal elements. Considering the affordable price, the cleaner becomes an attractive option for a wide range of car enthusiasts.

In reviews, users appreciate the product for its accessibility and versatility of use. The cleaning ability is also satisfactory. Some car enthusiasts call the cleaner the best universal composition.

1 ASTROhim AC-355

The choice of professionals
Country Russia
Average price: 120 rub. (500 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.9

A wide range of car care tasks can be solved by the ASTROhim AC-355 universal cleaner. Russian manufacturer focused on the quality of cleaning and the speed of the product. This is why you can find cleaner from Astrokhim in many car washes. The drug is ready to care not only for the car interior, but also to maintain the shine on external metal and painted surfaces. The product effectively removes stains from food and drinks, traces of petroleum products, stuck insects, etc. In competition with 13 products from other companies, ASTROhim AS-355 received a special mark “Choice of ZR” in a test by the magazine “Behind the Wheel”.

Users in reviews note the availability and effectiveness of the product, high-quality and quick cleaning different surfaces. The product even copes with the removal of chewing gum easily and simply.

Best fabric upholstery cleaners

Some light stains on fabric upholstery can be dealt with using a damp cloth. But only special auto chemicals can clean greasy seats or stains embedded in the fibers of the material. As practice shows, the high price of a product will not always be a guarantee of quality.

3 Nekker

The best domestic fabric upholstery cleaner
Country Russia
Average price: 170 rub. (500 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.7

Russian manufacturer of car care products Khimik has developed Nekker upholstery cleaner. The product stands out from competitors due to its low price. But at the same time, the drug effectively copes with dirt without leaving streaks or stains. Experts consider the advantages of the composition to be antistatic properties, which are important when caring for artificial fabrics. The product is suitable for the maintenance of seats and carpets, upholstery made of natural and synthetic materials. The performance of the domestic development was confirmed during testing of the purifier by the magazine "Behind the wheel".

The product failed to beat the contenders due to uneven spraying. And you have to wait longer for the reaction to complete (5-10 minutes) than when using competitors. User reviews also express dissatisfaction with the too small font in the instructions for use.

2 Sonax 306200

Upholstery color restoration
Country: Germany
Average price: 330 rub. (400 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.8

When caring for used cars, Sonax foam can give the interior a new look. The composition is good because it restores the faded color of fabric upholstery. The foam cleaner is sprayed evenly; chemical compounds require 3-5 minutes to achieve maximum effect. During this time, even stubborn dirt is removed from velor or textile surfaces. Residues of the drug are removed using a brush or vacuum cleaner. There are no stains or streaks left on the cleaned surface.

Many domestic car owners have managed to evaluate the properties of the Sonax foam cleaner. This conclusion can be made by analyzing a large number of reviews. In general, users are satisfied with the quality of cleaning fabric upholstery, the speed of the reaction, and ease of use. The upholstery becomes fresher and brighter. The disadvantages include the inability to maintain the ceiling.

1 LIQUI MOLY 7586

Efficiency and ease of use
Country: Germany
Average price: 470 rub. (300 ml)
Rating (2019): 4.9

LIQUI MOLY upholstery cleaning foam received the highest ratings from experts. It successfully passed the tests conducted by the authoritative Internet portal http://rating-avto.ru. The product is easily applied from a compact spray can and then absorbed into the fabric for 2 minutes. After this, the dissolved dirt along with the remaining foam is removed with a damp cloth. Experts note the absence of harmful compounds for humans and a slight pleasant odor. Special measurements have confirmed the safety of the product for fabric fibers, so there are no restrictions on use.

Judging by the reviews, users are satisfied with the quality of cleaning, ease of use and unobtrusive odor. The product copes with the most stubborn stains that could not be removed at a car wash. The disadvantage of LIQUI MOLY upholstery cleaning foam is its high price.

Decorative leather in car interiors is a material with unique properties. This type of interior upholstery is used in mid-level or luxury salons. Leather upholstery perfectly adapts to temperature changes, retains elasticity and does not crack in the cold season. The car's interior, made of leather, looks luxurious and expensive. However, it is important to remember: such material requires special treatment, so let’s talk about 10 the best means How to care for the leather interior of a car.

Requirements for cleaning products

Caring for upholstery is aimed not only at removing dirt, but also at protecting the leather from dryness and cracks. Dry cleaning of leather interior costs from professionals from 2,300 rubles. Coarse abrasive components are not allowed in conditioner-cleaners. The auto dry cleaning procedure includes a number of activities:

• Removing dust and dirt stains.
• Moisturizing and nutrition.
• Restoration of structure and color.
• Creation of an oleophobic film against moisture.
• Protective polishing.
• Destruction of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Neutralization of unpleasant odors.

Recent advances in the field of automotive cosmetics and auto chemicals successfully cope with the above-described requirements.

Rating of the best car leather care products

№1 Leather cleaner & conditioner

The universal conditioner-cleaner is a unique development of North American manufacturers. Effective nanocomponents of the product ensure cleaning of leather upholstery of the rear and front seats, steering wheel, control panel and doors. The cleaner restores the color and structure of the coating, moisturizes and nourishes the material, and also neutralizes unpleasant odors. Flaws: overcharge.

№2 Sonax NanoPro Extreme

Foam cleaner with an advanced NanoPro formula provides comprehensive protection and extremely effective cleaning of deep dirt. The action of the components is aimed at removing fat, traces of food and spilled liquid. Gives leather goods softness and elasticity.

№3 Trim Clean

The product from Turtle Wax is in great demand due to its versatility and affordability. Polymer composite cleaner for cleaning leather, plastic, fabric and metal surfaces. The areas of use are extensive:

• Leather coverings and car upholstery.
• Decorative coatings for furniture and interior items.
• Motor vehicles.

The product restores the original gloss, gives the material shine and aesthetic appeal.

№4 Presto

Foam cleaner for removing dirt and restoring decorative items. It is used both in automotive detailing and in everyday life. Thanks to its special formula, the cleaner removes deeply ingrained dirt without damaging the material. Gives products a fresh and attractive appearance. Flaws: use is allowed only in the warm season at a temperature of +15–20 °C.

#5 Cockpit & Bumper Clean & Shine

A special feature of the development is multi-level cleaning of leather surfaces both in deep layers and on the outside. The effect is achieved thanks to the polymer composite components included in the product. After use, a thin film forms on the surface of the upholstery, preventing the effects of negative environmental factors.

#6 Dry Touch

Unlike the previous cleaner, Dry Touch has an expanded range of applications:

• Cleaning leather and plastic interior elements.
• Restores color and structure.
• Gives shine and shine.
• Fights harmful microorganisms.

An excellent product for giving products freshness and incredible shine.

#7 Turtle Wax

Cosmetic wipes impregnated with special surfactants that remove dirt, grease stains and streaks. Neutralizes odors, refreshes the interior, and is completely non-toxic. The protective conditioner included in the wipes restores the leather of the interior upholstery, moisturizes and softens the structure, and prevents aging and cracking. The tube includes 20 cosmetic wipes.

№8 Doctor Wax

Highly effective fast-acting conditioner-cleaner. The composition includes semi-synthetic components that effectively remove stains from leather coverings in just one application. The action of the components is aimed at softening and moisturizing artificial leather, restoration of structure. Neutralizes the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation.

№9 XADO

In addition to cleaning and restoring decorative coatings, has a unique air freshener “New Car”. The conditioner-cleaner has sunscreen and water-repellent properties. Refreshes appearance and gives a neutral shine to products.

#10 Step Up

Lotion-cleaner for leather coverings with a proprietary function of protection against sun rays FadeStop. The components have antistatic properties and create a thin water-repellent film on the surface of the upholstery. Returns elasticity and gloss to materials. Cleaning is multi-level, including deep structural layers.

Conclusion

Protecting the leather interior is a complex procedure using special products. Main requirements for chemical compositions: softness of action, effectiveness, imparting elasticity and shine. There are both universal cleansers-conditioners and narrowly targeted products - lotions, wet cosmetic wipes. The choice is yours.

Having a leather interior in a car, many drivers believe that it requires less maintenance because it hardly gets dirty. In reality, this opinion is not entirely correct. We'll tell you which products to choose and how to use them to prolong the life of your skin.

1 Leather interior - what affects its durability?

Leather interior care must be constant and correct. This finish really gets dirty less, but you still need to take care of it. The condition of the skin is affected by climatic conditions: high and low temperatures, excess humidity or dry air. Keeping your car in direct sunlight, even at moderate temperatures, can also damage your skin. All negative factors lead to the formation of cracks and deterioration in the quality of the upholstery.

The frequency of maintenance is determined by the climate of the area, but cleaning the leather interior once a month will not hurt. In winter, the skin suffers from frost, becomes rougher, less elastic, and cracks may appear. But the winter sun's rays do not dry it out, so you can care for it a little less often. Leather upholstery may have a protective layer. This can be easily checked with water: if you drop a drop on the seat and the water, collected in a ball, flows off the surface, there is a protective layer on the skin. He is also influenced negative conditions, may crack. It also needs care, for which you can use vinyl products.

Leather is subject to various mechanical damage, like any upholstery. Rough impact with sharp objects or an unextinguished cigarette are dangerous for her. Light skin is especially susceptible to mechanical stress. Any liquid, if spilled on the seat and not wiped up immediately, will gradually be absorbed into the material and may leave a stain. Dyes used in clothing can also gradually be absorbed into the pores of the skin on the seat and back. Colored stains on light leather upholstery are difficult to remove even with special means.

2 How to properly wash seats - car cosmetics and folk remedies

Skin ages over time and more and more effort is required to care for it. This becomes especially noticeable after 3–5 years of operation. Light-colored skin gets dirty easily, but dark skin is also not flawless: it overheats faster, and stains from faded clothes are very noticeable. Very little maintenance is required: keep the skin clean and lubricate nourishing cream. The cleaning procedure consists of two stages: first the upholstery is washed, then cream is applied.

Before washing, clean the interior from dust using a vacuum cleaner with a soft attachment, and carefully treat the seams.

I wash the salon using special cleaners or using folk remedies. The cleaners offered by car cosmetics contain surfactants - surfactants. WITH chemicals, especially imported ones, you should be careful. Sometimes an inaccurate translation is given, which, for example, does not say that the product cannot be used on velor and suede. So, when using any unfamiliar product, try it on an inconspicuous area first.

People have long tested and successfully used simple household or high-quality toilet soap. To wash your skin, you will need a soft foam sponge and two microfiber cloths - all bought at a hardware store. We buy laundry or toilet soap such as "Dove" or "Nivea". Be sure to look at the composition of the toilet soap; apart from skin cream, it should not contain any specific additives.

Pour almost hot water into a basin, dilute the chopped pieces of soap until foam forms. We dip the sponge and squeeze out almost all the water - this is important, the skin does not like excess water. We begin to wash the seats, no need to scrub too hard. Immediately after washing, we wipe each seat with a napkin so that it does not remain wet, only slightly damp. After cleaning with soap, be sure to apply a softening cream to dry skin, otherwise it will become stiff and cracks may appear. If you wash with special products, it is not necessary to apply cream. You can do this later, since cleaners already contain fats, silicone, and wax.

3 Cleaning the interior - features of the procedure

After washing, the interior should dry well; apply car leather care product only to a clean, dry surface. We carry out the procedure in a place protected from the sun, in a heated garage in winter. We carefully read the instructions for use. The product can be applied in two ways, depending on the recommendations:

• spray the aerosol over the surface and wipe;
• wet a cloth with gel and rub into the skin.

It is strictly forbidden to leave the product on the surface, otherwise it will not have any effect without being absorbed into the skin. Excess product left on the surface and dried is almost impossible to remove.

The front seats, as those most susceptible to abrasion and exposure to sunlight, are recommended to be treated twice with a break of 30–60 minutes. It is advisable not to use the car immediately, but to allow the cream to absorb well and dry for at least 2 hours, or better yet 12. For new leather upholstery, you can give preference to products that add gloss. The older the skin, the higher quality creams it requires to moisturize. Washing the seats also dries out the skin. We try not to apply more product than necessary, otherwise it will not be absorbed well, dry out on the surface, and make the skin inelastic. After processing it should not be sticky.

4 Cosmetics for cars – what are offered to drivers today

Cleaning leather requires foam cleaners or lotions designed for leather. Emollient creams or conditioners are applied to cleansed skin. When choosing, you should focus on certain criteria:

1. Performance. There are products that act very quickly, but old dirt on seats does not always respond to them. It is better treated with drugs that act slowly. The result is more important than speed here.
2. Brand. You should not chase products from well-known manufacturers. You should choose products that are suitable for a particular salon.
3. Price. You shouldn’t buy cheap products, but you don’t have to spend money on very expensive ones either. You need to choose in the middle price range, preferring drugs that are effective and safe.
4. Safety. Chemicals should not harm the health of the driver or the interior material. Some products can quickly remove stains, but gradually eat away at the skin.

Let's look at some well-known tools using these criteria.

Doctor Wax is an interior cleaner from the USA, the Russian name is “Protektant”. It perfectly washes away old dirt, is neutral in relation to the material, the skin does not suffer even after repeated use. It contains no hazardous substances and has a pleasant aroma. The liquid is thick, so use sparingly. Removes fresh stains in 1–2 minutes, old stains in 5–7 minutes. Unable to remove organic contaminants from light skin. Quite expensive.

Astrohim is the best Russian foam for cleaning skin. Removes small areas with stains and fresh dirt quickly: 2-3 minutes. You will have to suffer with old stains: after applying, rub well, wait 10 minutes, wipe, rinse, apply again. However, 100% removal of very old and organic stains is not guaranteed. After use, the upholstery remains durable, but gradually becomes thinner. Quite a high cost.

After cleansing, apply to the skin protective cream. Manufacturers often strive to produce two in one: a cleaner-conditioner - a product that will clean and at the same time protect the leather of the interior. But it is better to use separate salon care products. Pay attention to the composition of the conditioners, it should contain: vitamin E, glycerin, wax. Can be used special napkins with wax. Special conditioners and leather preservatives that have received recognition from drivers: Meguiar's Rich Leather Aloe Conditioner, Liqui Moly Leder-Pflege, Soft99 Leather Wax F, SONAX wipes.

5 Skin restoration – restoring damaged areas

If minor damage to the skin appears in the interior, it can be repaired. First, wash the skin, following the requirements described above, then degrease special means, purchased at a car store. We carry out operations very carefully. Using scissors, we cut off the unevenness on the tear, remove the unevenness around it with fine sandpaper, but do not sand it so as not to disturb the structure of the leather. We put a plastic mesh with very dense small cells over the breakthrough. This completes the preparation.

We continue repairing the leather interior. Pour dry glue onto the mesh and apply a Teflon gasket on top. Iron the dry powder through the pad, turning it into glue. To ensure a smooth surface, quickly cool it with ice packs or very cold water. Remove the gasket from the cooled surface. Fill the created surface with liquid leather. Then we heat and cool again - so the surface takes on the structure of the skin. Now you can paint the leather in your car with a small spray or can. For this purpose, Saphir and Motip products are often used.

The trade offers special kits for eliminating cracks in the skin with your own hands. But they often do not allow you to completely restore the original appearance, so it is better to go the proven route.

You should choose a paint that exactly matches the color of the interior. It is better to paint even very small areas by dismantling the seat so that small particles of paint do not fall on other parts of the car. Thus, it is quite possible to repair leather seat upholstery with your own hands, but to prevent it from getting to the point of repair, take proper care of the interior in a timely manner and avoid mechanical damage to the leather.