How to Restore the Leather Seats in Your Car?
If you are looking to increase the resale value of your car, one of the first things you should do is probably restore its leather seats. It can be as important to repair the interior of your vehicle as it is to make sure that its mechanical and electrical parts are in good working order. After all, it's the first impression that counts. Well-restored, leather car seats give your vehicle more appeal by adding a touch of elegance and luxury.
Restoration or Replacement?
What can you do when your leather seats start to crack and wear out over time? Cracked and worn leather not only reduces the value of your car, it just isn't attractive. Instead of replacing the covers, consider restoring them.
Unlike cloth seats, leather can regain a "new look" with the right techniques and the right products. Careful care and routine maintenance can save your Ecocentre seats. Why waste your time looking for new leather seats that may or may not match the interior of your vehicle when you can simply restore the ones that are already there?
DIY or Auto Repair Garage?
Simple rips, scuffs and cracks in leather can easily be repaired by DIY methods. There are excellent restoration products and leather repair kits available in the market to make your job easier.
There are a number of common leather problems you can try to fix yourself, including:
- Scratches
- Cuts
- Abrasions
- Cracks
- Tasks
However, depending on the severity of the damage, the age of your leather car seats, and your own experience in restoring car seats, you may want to consider hiring a professional. Many auto repair garages can offer retailer services. Or you can try looking for a specialist who only focuses on auto interiors.
After Restoration, Keep Your Vehicle Clean:
What to do after you've restored your leather seats? Regular cleaning can help maintain the appearance of your newly restored leather surfaces for years to come. Many people are often hesitant to choose leather seats because of the extra maintenance they require. Don't be intimidated! Here are some tips to help you clean your leather seats without breaking your budget:
- Clean off all dirt and oils with a soft microfiber towel, soft bristle brush or cotton cloth
- Do not use household cleaning products which may dry out the leather seats and cause them to crack prematurely
- For an economical cleaning solution, use 2 thirds of water for 1 third of vinegar (or mild dish soap)
- Soak the cloth, wring it out, gently rub the leather, then wipe it off (this operation must be done one part at a time to avoid soaking the seats)
- With a clean, unused cloth, wipe down the entire washed seat to make sure it is dry
- Apply any available leather upholstery conditioner. Be sure to make sure the leather is completely dry before you apply it. Otherwise, the conditioner will not be absorbed.
