Best Leather Cleaners & Conditioners for 2024

Leather products are high quality and often expensive.

So when it comes to looking after them, you want to keep them in the best condition possible.

That's why it's important to regularly clean and condition them.

But which cleaners and conditioners are best?

Here are our top picks for 2024:

Best Leather Conditioner: Premium Leather Cream

An exceptional leather conditioner made from natural ingredients, designed to soften and protect leather products.

Leather conditioner highlights:

• No harmful chemicals like glycerin or silicone
• Improved the appearance and longevity of leather
• Handmade from natural ingredients
• One jar lasts for many years
• Uses coconut oil and olive oil
• Penetrates leather to moisturize, rejuvenate, and protect the fibers
• Adds a natural shine
• Designed for high quality leathers
• One thing to note: if applying to furniture or car interiors, test on a small hidden area first to ensure you like the result. Apply it and wait for 1-2 hours, then remove any excess with a microfiber cloth.

Click here to check the price

You can also watch the video on the conditioner below:

Best Leather Cleaner: Mothers 06412 Leather Cleaner

Average rating: 4.7/5 from 244 Reviews on Amazon.

This product has a pH balanced formula to safely lift dirt and grime from the surface of your leather. It's great for items that get regular use, like sofas, car interiors, or leather accessories.

You don't need a lot of it for an effective clean, which is noted in several reviews.

Regularly cleaning your leather will extend the life and keep it durable.

Click here to check the price on Amazon | Or visit the Mothers website

Benefits

High-quality leather cleaners can breathe new life into your space and belongings.

They can return your finest leather goods to their original state and are always great to have access to whether you want to restore a leather jacket or a high-end sofa.

Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits of using leather cleaners right now.

Extend the lifespan of leather goods

When you use a leather cleaner on a regular basis, you can extend the lifespan of your leather items.

A leather cleaner will help you to protect the quality of your product or products, ensuring they stay supple whilst minimizing fading and cracking.

Restoration and revitalization

This solution is ideal when you want to breathe fresh life into a leather product that’s become dulled or worn out.

It’s great for an ageing handbag, an old pair of boots or a piece of furniture you want to derive as much life from as possible. If you have leather goods you want to return to their former glory, invest in suitable cleaning products.

Versatility

These cleaners can do an amazing job with various leather goods including clothing and accessories such as jackets, shoes, and handbags. They’re also fantastic for car interiors and furniture.

You can safely apply them to any item manufactured from leather.

Preventative care

Leather cleaners aren’t designed just for cleaning. They also offer preventative care so you can defend your goods from potential damage and stains.

A leather cleaner can work as a protective shield that helps you avoid issues with dirt, water, and UV rays.

Enhanced appearance

A leather cleaner is an ideal product whenever you want to improve the way a leather item looks.

This kind of product can boost the natural appearance and texture of leather thanks to the way it removes oil, stains, and dirt. It will provide you with a glossy finish that’s truly impressive.

Ease of use

These products can be used by pretty much anyone. As they are so user-friendly, they make the cleaning process both quick and efficient. Minimal effort is needed to make your leather products look fantastic.

Compatibility

Leather cleaners work fantastically with a whole host of brands and types of leather. The integrity of your leather will be protected whether you’re maintaining an old car seat or a designer handbag.

How to choose the right leather cleaner for you

There are various factors to consider when you’re seeking out the best leather cleaner for your requirements.

Is the leather cleaner suitable for your material?

Different kinds of leather need specific cleaning products that have been specially formulated with them in mind. Make sure the cleaning product you’re using is a suitable match for your leather product.

What is the cleaning performance like?

Seek out a cleaner that can remove dirt, stains, and grime without discoloring or otherwise damaging the leather.

What are the conditioning properties?

Some cleaners also come with conditioning advantages. They can restore suppleness to your leather and also prevent cracking and drying.

You may wish to look for a cleaner that’s known for enhancing the overall appearance of your leather.

Do you need a cleaner with conditioning properties? If so, opt for one that features conditioning agents or high-quality oils.

Is the cleaner easy to use?

Think about the application method as well as the recommended process to get the best results. Find a cleaner that’s not too difficult to apply and won’t require a great deal of scrubbing.

Are the ingredients non-toxic?

If you have eco-friendliness in mind or live with pets or kids, look for a cleaner that’s free from harmful chemicals. You may wish to look for one that’s made from natural, plant-based ingredients that’s both biodegradable and non-toxic.

Does the product come with a certain aroma?

Some customers have concerns about smell when they’re seeking out leather cleaners. Think carefully about whether you need an odorless cleaner or one with a fragrance.

How much does the product cost?

If money is a concern, think about how much you can afford. Look for a quality cleaner that offers fantastic value for money. There are many cost-effective cleaners on the market that can deliver fantastic results.

Does the product have good reviews and ratings?

Look for a cleaning product that’s won high ratings and great reviews as these are more likely to deliver impressive results.

How well-regarded is the brand?

Seek out a cleaner from a reputable brand that’s associated with quality products and great customer service.

Does the product have non-toxic, biodegradable ingredients?

Look for an eco-friendly product which is free from damaging chemicals and doesn’t have a negative impact on the environment or personal well-being.

Does the product contain conditioners?

Some cleaners are also able to replenish the leather’s natural oils. This can save you time and money whilst enhancing the life of your leather product.

Does your leather cleaner come with pH-balanced formulas?

Seek out a cleaner that has a neutral or slightly acidic pH. This means it will be compatible with leather and stop it from drying, cracking or ageing prematurely.

What is the application method?

Think about what the best application method is. Seek out a cleaner which matches your lifestyle as well as your preferences in terms of ease of use.

Is the cleaning product versatile?

Some cleaners are more versatile than others. You can use certain cleaning products on a wide range of leather goods. This ensures fantastic value for money.

Can you use the product frequently before replacing it?

Think about how frequently you’ll be using the leather cleaning product. If you will be using it regularly, it’s best to purchase a bigger bottle that will serve you well for a long time.

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What types of leather cleaners are there?

Cream-based leather cleaners

These cleaning products are very popular with leather bag fans. They normally contain mild and non-abrasive ingredients which can efficiently remove grime and dirt without damaging the natural sheen of the leather.

Cream cleaners are ideal if you have a bag that needs both cleaning and conditioning. This is because they tend to have moisturizing elements.

If you own a vintage leather bag that requires gentle cleaning and rejuvenation, a cream-based cleaner could be the perfect choice for you.

Although this product can leave a slight residue, it’s fairly easy to remove this with a clean, dry cloth.

Foam leather cleaner

Many people opt for foam leather cleaners when they need a deep cleaning solution. The consistency of the foam enables it to penetrate deep into leather pores to remove grime and stubborn stains.

This means it’s ideal if you need to clean an item that’s been heavily soiled. This might include a luxury leather bag that you use daily.

Although these products have powerful cleaning properties, they are normally safe for all leather types. Foam cleaners can slightly lighten the colour of dark leather, so it is wise to carry out a spot test before you get to work with them.

Spray leather cleaners

These cleaners are renowned for how convenient and easy to use they are. They are renowned for their efficiency during quick, light cleaning tasks.

If you don’t have a great deal of free time but do want to maintain your bag well, a spray leather cleaner could be the perfect solution.

If you have a product such as a light-colored leather purse that tends to attract dust and minor stains, a spray cleaner can be ideal for swift, regular touch-ups. Just keep in mind that these cleaners aren’t always great for heavy stains or dirt that’s been deeply ingrained.

Leather cleaning wipes

If you need a highly convenient, portable solution, consider using leather cleaning wipes. Wipes are great for quick cleaning on the move and are perfect for travelers as well as those that are regularly out and about with their bags.

Perhaps you use a leather messenger bag for work every day? If so, these wipes will help you keep it polished and clean.

Just remember to close your wipes package when you have finished using it. The wipes may dry out if you haven’t sealed the package properly.

Gel leather cleaner

Gel leather cleaners are noted for their thick consistencies. This ensures the solution stays on the surface of your leather for longer and gives it a deep, thorough clean.

Many people use gel leather cleaners for bags that have deep-set stains and require intense cleaning.

Maybe you have a cherished leather satchel that you want to return to its former glory? Then a gel leather cleaner could be ideal for your needs.

Just remember that a gel cleaner requires more time to work in comparison to other cleaners. You will also need to buff your leather well after you have applied the cleaner.

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• How To Stiffen Leather
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Alternatives

Cleaning Leather Furniture

When you have leather furniture to clean, one of your biggest priorities may be maintaining the integrity of your goods whilst removing stains and grime. Many people opt to use a cream or lotion-type leather cleaner. This kind of product can penetrate your leather, remove dirt, and leave your surface with a protective layer.

Some people opt for homemade leather cleaning solutions that are made from natural ingredients like olive oil and vinegar. If you have concerns about the environment or prefer to opt for a DIY approach, this could be the choice for you.

Although these solutions can be effective, you will need to opt for the right proportions and handling with care to prevent damage.

Foam cleaners have become popular over recent years thanks to the way they are so easy to use and involve little mess. They are particularly suitable for busy people who need to cut down the amount of time it takes to refresh their furniture.

Leather Cleaning for Cars

Car interiors are frequently exposed to direct sunlight, fluctuating temperatures and moisture. This is why it’s so important to use a leather cleaner which has been specifically designed with cars in mind.

Many of these products will make your leather more resistant to these conditions and restore the look and feel of your product at the same time.

Cleaning wipes are also useful when you need to get rid of surface grime or dust, or if you want to quickly touch up your leather. They’re portable and both easy to use and store.

A microfiber cloth can also be helpful when you’re using it with the right kind of cleaning agent.

These cloths are not harsh on leather and can remove dust and grime effectively. This is especially true when you combine them with a quality cleaning solution.

Cleaning Clothing and Accessories

When you have small leather goods like shoes, jackets, and handbags to clean, you can opt for a dedicated leather cleaner. These cleaners are highly effective at cleaning and conditioning leather without leaving residue. This makes sure your items stay looking their best.

You can also consider using a leather cleaning spray. These products are easy to use and distribute the liquid effectively.

Nonetheless, you do need to take care when you’re using the spray on delicate surfaces or items as you could oversaturate them.

You could use a homemade solution, but you’ll need to be very cautious if attempting this as you could cause an unwanted reaction or discoloration.

In certain cases, you may be able to opt for a gentle, colorless art gum eraser to remove surface grime from a bag or shoe.

Although this approach may seem strange, it can work surprisingly well, especially if you’re treating a lighter-color item. However, this method won’t be suitable for removing stains or deep cleaning.

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What to consider after making your purchase?

Product efficiency

Some people find themselves concerned about the efficiency of the cleaners they have purchased. Look for a product which has been tested rigorously to ensure it can cleanse, restore and protect leather.

It’s a good idea to begin with a small inconspicuous patch to see what the results are like.

Application process

Although the application process can seem a little daunting, you can break it down into small steps:

1. Lightly dampen your application cloth with water.
2. Apply a small amount of cleaner to the cloth.
3. Massage the cleaner gently into the surface, opting for a circular motion.
4. Use a separate, dry cloth to wipe off excess cleaner.
5. Allow your item to dry naturally and keep it away from direct sunlight. You can repeat the process monthly or whenever your leather goods have begun to lose their shine.

Leather type

Some leather products require different cleaning processes than others. You normally need to look for a cleaner that’s both effective and safe for a wide range of leather types. However, if you have a particularly exotic or delicate leather product to treat, it may be best to ask for professional advice before you proceed.

Potential damage

It’s understandable to have fears about damaging your cherished leather goods. This is why it’s so important to follow the instructions that come with your item. Don’t apply the cleaner onto your goods directly. Use a cloth instead.

Environmental impact

Many people have concerns about the environmental impact of their leather goods. If you are one of them, look for a leather cleaner that’s manufactured from sustainable materials.

FAQs

What are the most important things to think about when buying a leather cleaner?

When you’re seeking out a leather cleaner, think about the kind of leather you’ll be working with, its condition and the ingredients used to make the cleaner.

Some cleaners are a better match for finished leather, whilst others are more suitable for unfinished leather.

Make sure the cleaner is gentle enough to avoid damaging the leather but effective enough for dirt and stain removal.

Can a typical cleaner be used on all kinds of leather?

No. Not all leathers can be used on all kinds of leather. Make sure the cleaner you’re buying is suitable for your specific leather type.

It’s always best to test the cleaner on a discreet part of the leather first.

Do I need to use a conditioner after using a leather cleaner?

You don’t always need to use a conditioner, but it can help you to maintain the suppleness of your leather whilst prolonging its lifespan.

A conditioner can defend your material from UV damage, replenish natural oils and maintain the color and luster of your leather.

Can they remove all stains?

Leather cleaners can be used for most stain types. However, if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn or old stain you may need to purchase a specialist product or ask a leather cleaning professional for help.

Harsh cleaners can damage your leather, so make sure you’re always following the manufacturer’s instructions.

How often should you clean leather?

The frequency can vary. Factors can include what you’re using your leather item for and where you are located.

If your item is likely to be exposed to heavy usage or harsh conditions, you’ll need to clean it around every three to six months. If you don’t use your item this regularly, you’ll only need to clean it once or twice a year.

Can I use natural or homemade alternatives?

You may be able to use a homemade product like a blend of water and vinegar. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that commercial leathers have been specifically formulated to work with leather.

This means they tend to be safer and more efficient. Make sure you always test a homemade cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it won’t damage the material.

Can I use a leather cleaner with faux or vegan leather?

Some cleaners work well with real and faux leather. However, read the instructions to ensure your product is a suitable match before you go ahead and use it.

The composition of vegan and faux leather can be much different to that of real leather. This means it may react differently to certain cleaning products.

Can I use leather cleaning products around pets and kids?

Some cleaning products have chemicals which may cause harm if they are ingested or inhaled in large amounts.

If you do have children and pets around, make sure the product you’re using is branded as non-toxic and eco-friendly. In any case, you should always store leather cleaners away from pets and kids.

What should I do if my leather discolors or dries out after I have cleaned it?

Discoloration can occur because of a reaction with the cleaner. Some cleaning products can also remove some of the color from the leather.

If the material dries out, this may be because the cleaner has stripped essential oils from it. Talk to the manufacturer of the cleaning product or another relevant professional if your leather has discolored or dried out.

Is there a difference between a leather restorer and a leather cleaner?

Leather cleaners are mainly designed to clean and remove dirt or stain. Restorer is designed to rehydrate and rejuvenate aged, worn, or faded leather.

It may help you restore the original sheen and color to your leather.

Some people use both products to get the best results possible.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our article on the best leather cleaners and conditioners.

If you have any questions or comments, contact us at info@vonbaer.com, or leave them in the comments.

Want to read more? Check out our Leather pages.