[5050punk]

I tried searching on this, but searching on "leather cleaning" came up with way too many results to find what I was looking for.

I want to know how I should clean my leather when I'm not using leather conditioner? I just ordered some Zaino Z-9 and Z-10, but I think I'm only supposed to use those every 2-3 months.

[328i]

Originally Posted by 5050punk

I tried searching on this, but searching on "leather cleaning" came up with way too many results to find what I was looking for.

I want to know how I should clean my leather when I'm not using leather conditioner? I just ordered some Zaino Z-9 and Z-10, but I think I'm only supposed to use those every 2-3 months.

A simple wipe down with a slightly damp cloth should be enough. If you need to use chemical cleaners to get it clean then I suggest conditioning it afterwords, regardless of when the last time you conditioned it was.

[5050punk]

Cool thanks. I figured as much but thought I'd check anyways.

[pander5]

You can also use a mild solution of water and Woolite - 5:1. Woolite is very mild and will remove some dirt and grime if you have any. I then wipe with a moist towel after to remove any Woolite. Woolite will not hurt your leather. Once you get your Z9/10 you can follow up with that stuff. It's great!

[328i]

Originally Posted by pander5

You can also use a mild solution of water and Woolite - 5:1. Woolite is very mild and will remove some dirt and grime if you have any. I then wipe with a moist towel after to remove any Woolite. Woolite will not hurt your leather. Once you get your Z9/10 you can follow up with that stuff. It's great!

While Woolite is fine to use, you want to follow your cleaning with Woolite with a damp cloth as well, to ensure all the Woolite solution is removed. If not the leather will just attract more dirt with the soap still on the surface.

[Detailed Image]

A nice option to go to for the in between leather conditioning is Optimum Leather Protectant. It's a quick all in one solution that cleans the leather and leaves behind some UV protection. Works well on vinyl and rubber too, so it's universal for a good portion of your interior and exterior trim. A light mist onto a microfiber towel and simply wipe the surface clean. Flip it over to a dry section of your towel to give it a quick swipe to ensure a uniform matte finish.

George

[Roentgen]

So the Optimum plus is ok for more than occasional use? The woolite is a little too involved. For just dust and minimal dirt removal inbetween full cleaning it would be nice to have something very quick spray on wipe off during the week. I know Armorall wipes is a big no no. Any safe recommended wipes out there for quick spot cleaing while on the road etc?

[328i]

Originally Posted by Roentgen

So the Optimum plus is ok for more than occasional use? The woolite is a little too involved. For just dust and minimal dirt removal inbetween full cleaning it would be nice to have something very quick spray on wipe off during the week. I know Armorall wipes is a big no no. Any safe recommended wipes out there for quick spot cleaing while on the road etc?

I believe Meguiars has leather wipes that would fit the bill nicely for what you're looking for.

[Barmats]

On other cars with light leather I've used a damp Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for mild stains or marks. It's gentle and non-abrasive, and doesn't use any chemicals or cleaner. The only problem using this is that it makes the area you worked on look "too clean".

[328i]

Originally Posted by Barmats

On other cars with light leather I've used a damp Mr. Clean Magic Eraser for mild stains or marks. It's gentle and non-abrasive, and doesn't use any chemicals or cleaner. The only problem using this is that it makes the area you worked on look "too clean".

Mr. Clean Magic Erasers are abrasive, I would advise against using them, as they can take away some of the coloring if use with too much pressure.

[Barmats]

Originally Posted by 328i

Mr. Clean Magic Erasers are abrasive, I would advise against using them, as they can take away some of the coloring if use with too much pressure.

I've had very good results using them to remove bug guts from the clearcoat, as well as small marks on light leather. I would imagine that too much pressure for too long may cause discoloration or abrasion, but the material itself works because it conforms to all of the nooks and crannies of the surface you're cleaning. But it's good advice, nonetheless -- if you use it, do a test clean first somewhere unobtrusive just to make sure, then use gently.

[328i]

Originally Posted by Barmats

I've had very good results using them to remove bug guts from the clearcoat, as well as small marks on light leather. I would imagine that too much pressure for too long may cause discoloration or abrasion, but the material itself works because it conforms to all of the nooks and crannies of the surface you're cleaning. But it's good advice, nonetheless -- if you use it, do a test clean first somewhere unobtrusive just to make sure, then use gently.

Using them on clearcoat will definitely instill marring, I believe the package even warns not to use on car finishes or something of the sort. For bug guts a much safer alternative is clay, your clear coat is more delicate than you think. But for the interior doing a test area is a good idea, and using it gently is important as well, that should keep you relatively safe.

[stickypaws]

Originally Posted by 5050punk

I just ordered some Zaino Z-9 and Z-10, but I think I'm only supposed to use those every 2-3 months.

The Z-9 Leather Soft Spray Cleaner is the cleaner and you can use it as often as needed (don't use a lot and use it with a damp sponge, scrub, and then wipe it off with a dry towel.) It's the Z-10 that you only use every 2-3 months.

Basic treatment is cleaning with Z-9, let the leather dry, and then conditioning with Z-10. You only need do that combo every several months. The leather will only absorb so much Z-10 conditioner and more than that is just a waste. But using the Z-9 cleaner when needed just by itself is fine.

Since you already bought the Z-9 and Z-10, you don't need to buy any other products.

[Malek@MRF]

Never use mr. clean magic eraser. It is very abrasive and will actually damage the leather over time. In the beginning it may not show, but gradually layers of the coated leather are removed by using magic eraser.

The best leather cleaner i have found to date is the Chemical Guys leather cleaner diluted 5:1 with distilled water. To clean the leather, use a brush, not a towel.

If conditioning is necessary, the BMW conditioner works great, and the Leather Master conditioner is great as well as the Chemical Guys Liquid Leather. Conditioners should not be too thick and should have a milky consistency.

To protect the leather (only condition if leather is neglected dry etc..) follow up with a WATER BASED product like FK1 Top Kote 108. You can work it in until it is matte like the factory finish and has anti-static properties.