How To Care For Faux Leather Interiors After Auto Detailing Training

Faux Leather, also known as Vegan Leather or Fake Leather, is essentially a synthetic material that is designed with leather-like grain and is backed with fabric. It’s not the usual animal-procured leather, but a man-made product that allows you to enjoy the same feel and look of real leather. 

Faux leather provides an aesthetic appeal similar to real leather but is more affordable and easier to maintain. However, faux leather requires regular care to prevent cracking, peeling, and fading despite its durability. Faux leather interiors are relatively common in cars, so there’s a more than decent chance that you’ll be tasked with caring for them at some point in your career after auto detailing training. To ensure you preserve (or help your clients preserve) the beauty and integrity of faux leather interiors and leave your clients happy and satisfied, follow these expert tips.

Regular Cleaning and Dusting

Regardless of the type of upholstery, cleaning is the first and most crucial step in care. After detailing the car’s exterior, gently clean the faux leather interior with a specially formulated cleaner. Avoid harsh chemical-based cleaners that could dry out and damage the material. A gentle wipe-down with a soft, damp cloth should suffice for light cleaning. For heavier soiling, a mild soap solution can be used. Remember, cleaners are not to be left on the surface of upholstery for extended periods.

Another way to care for faux leather upholstery is to gently dust them regularly. Dust can act as an abrasive on faux leather, leading to premature wear and tear. Regular dusting keeps the seats clean and reduces the risk of scratches and other damage. A microfiber cloth is perfect for this task.

Condition the Material Regularly and Manage Spills Cautiously

Another important step in faux leather care is conditioning. As you learned during auto detailing training, the application of a quality faux leather conditioner keeps the material supple and prevents cracking. It’s recommended to condition the seats once every three months. Look for a conditioner that offers UV protection, as this can help prevent colour fading due to exposure to sunlight.

If any liquid, whether it’s coffee, juice, water or another substance, splashes onto the faux leather surface, it is crucial to blot it out immediately using a clean, absorbent cloth. Instead of wiping or scrubbing, blotting is advised as it lifts the liquid from the material without spreading it further, which could cause a larger stain. A gentle blotting motion is also less likely to damage the faux leather’s texture.

Leaving liquid stains unattended, even for a short time, can result in stubborn stains on the faux leather. Liquids can seep into the faux leather material, altering its colour and appearance. In some cases, if the liquid is acidic or contains certain chemicals, it can lead to a chemical reaction with the faux leather, leading to an unpleasant odour, discolouration, or even a change in texture.

As Per Auto Detailing Protocols Avoid Extreme Temperatures

One detailing fact highlighted in our auto detailing courses is that faux leather can become brittle and crack in low temperatures, while high temperatures can lead to warping or melting. Therefore, try to park in a garage or a shaded area whenever possible to protect the interior. Finally, inspect the faux leather interior regularly. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, peeling, or discolouration. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming significant problems and prolong the lifespan of your faux leather.

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