While there may be plenty of information on the internet about caring for your interior, most of it is written by people with little experience. Here, our professional detailers offer some expert advice on ensuring the hot Australian sun doesn’t warp and weather your leather interior.
Why Regular Leather Care is Essential in Australia
Australia’s intense sun and harsh UV rays can wreak havoc with your leather if it’s left to dry out. Consistent upkeep will mean that you have beautiful, soft leather seats for years to come. Neglecting this maintenance, especially in climate-heavy regions like Perth or during a harsh Melbourne summer, can lead to premature cracking and fading.
The Four-Step Process for Leather Car Interior Care
Follow these steps for expert-level leather maintenance:
Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly (The Crucial First Step)
This important step is often overlooked by at-home detailers. Before any cleaning begins, you must get all dirt, fine sand, or rubbish out of the seat cracks. Small granules can act like sandpaper, scratching the leather and breaking through its protective surface when you start wiping or polishing.
Tip: Use a soft brush head attachment on your vacuum to avoid scratching the interior plastics or the leather itself. Pay special attention to stitching and crevices.
Step 2: Clean and Lift the Dirt
Apply a good quality leather cleaner directly to your seats with a soft-bristled brush. Focus on high-contact areas, as these are where oils, dirt, and marks accumulate most.
- Spot Test First: Always spot test your leather cleaner in an inconspicuous area (like under the seat) to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration.
- DIY Option: A standard homemade solution is two parts vinegar to one part water. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently agitate and lift bad stains.
- The Wipe Down: Once cleaned, wipe the seats dry with a soft microfibre cloth, then allow them to air dry completely.
Step 3: Condition and Protect
Conditioning is what keeps your leather supple and prevents it from cracking in the sun. Apply leather conditioner evenly across the seat and rub it in with a microfibre cloth.
- Absorption is Key: Do not let the solution pool on your seats. Take the time to ensure the product is gently absorbed. Switch to a new, fresh cloth if your application cloth gets too damp.
- Avoid Petroleum: Choose a high-quality leather conditioner and avoid petroleum-based products, which can cause unnatural build-up on the surface.
- Final Touches: Wipe away any excess product with a fresh microfibre cloth and let the seats dry naturally for a few hours.
Step 4: Repeat Consistently
Maintaining beautiful leather requires regularity. Repeat the full process of cleaning and conditioning at least twice a year, but ideally every three months. Consistent upkeep will protect your seats from the elements and keep your interior looking and feeling new.
