Opting for leather seats can make your car appear more luxurious and boost its resale value if you ever decide to sell. From food crumbs to spilled coffee, there are several ways you can stain the surfaces while on the road. Following the below cleaning suggestions will help remove any traces of damage from auto upholstery to maintain the value of your ride.

3 Cleaning Tips for Leather Car Seats

1. Use an Attachment When Vacuuming

If grime collects in the seams of car seats, don’t use a brush to clean the auto upholstery. Although the bristles can dislodge the particles, they can also leave small scratches or smudge marks in the leather. To prevent this, use a vacuum with an attachment instead. The nozzle can access hard-to-reach areas and suction out dirt, pet hair, food particles, and other residue.

2. Avoid Bleach- & Ammonia-Based Cleaners

When it comes to cleaners, look for products specifically formulated to clean leather auto upholstery. Stay away from bleach-based solutions, as the chemicals can dissolve the dyes in leather and leave the seats discolored. Ammonia-based products can also damage the seats. Apart from using store-bought cleaners, there are also common household items that can treat and remove stains. You can sprinkle baking soil on oil and grease residue and wipe the soiled area with a damp cloth to remove spots, for example, or try mild dish soap and water to extract stains.

3. Wipe up Excess Liquid Immediately

Whether you use an at-home remedy or an auto upholstery cleaner, never soak the leather. Otherwise, water and other liquids can trickle to the seams and seep through to the cushioning, damaging the seats. To avoid this, be mindful of how much liquid you use and dry seats with a towel after cleaning.

If your auto upholstery is severely stained or damaged, the technicians at Dothan, AL-based Whitehurst Auto Trim & Upholstery will make your car interior look like new again. Serving area motorists since 1964, the staff will repair seat frames, panels, and upholstery and install seat heaters to restore the quality of your investment and make passengers more comfortable. They’ll also share tips to reduce the likelihood of damage. For auto upholstery repair in Dale, Henry, or Houston counties, call (334) 792-6145. Visit the team online for a complete list of available services and Facebook for more advice to care for your car upholstery.