You’re in a hurry and you just realized that your coffee spilled on the leather seat of your car. Panic sets in as you realize that you have no idea how to clean it up. Can you use Clorox wipes on leather? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know before you start scrubbing. In this epic guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about using Clorox wipes on leather, including how to avoid damaging your furniture.
Clorox Wipes in General
These properties make Clorox wipes ideal for cleaning hard surfaces like countertops, cabinets, and floors. However, many people wonder if they can use them on leather surfaces as well. [1] [2]
Can You Use Clorox Wipes On Leather?
Still, if you are in a pinch and need to use a disinfectant on your leather piece, it is doable. Just make sure to use it sparingly and be extra careful when wiping. In this section, we will cover both advantages and disadvantages of using Clorox wipes. [1] [2]
Advantages of Using Clorox Wipes On Leather
We shall begin with the advantages. As we mentioned, Clorox wipes work great at removing tough stains, and they can be very useful when dealing with accidental spills or smudges on your leather piece. But you shouldn’t use them on any leather item that has visible stains, as the chemicals in the wipes might damage it. So, let’s proceed with an in-depth discussion.
They are a good cleaning solution for faux leather
Faux leather is a material made from synthetic materials such as polyurethane, PVC, and other plastics. Unlike genuine leather which is tanned and treated animal hide, faux leather does not contain any animal fibers and is generally considered to be more durable and easier to keep clean.
And if you have a synthetic leather piece or bag, Clorox wipes can be an effective cleaning solution. Faux leather doesn’t risk becoming easily damaged from the chemicals in the wipes, as long as you use them sparingly. These types of leather are usually treated with a protective coating that makes them resistant to stains. This means you can use the wipes without worrying about damaging the fabric underneath.
They are effective at removing odors
Another advantage of using Clorox wipes on leather is that they are effective at removing odors. Leather is a natural material derived from the hides of animals and it has pores that can absorb odors. The porous nature of leather makes it more susceptible to absorbing odors than other materials, such as synthetics or fabrics. This ability to absorb smells makes leather a great choice for furniture, clothing, shoes, and other items that are used on a daily basis.
When leather comes into contact with strong odors like smoke, pet dander, sweat, or spilled food and drinks, it can absorb those smells quickly and easily. In order to eliminate these unwanted scents from your items made out of leather, you need to clean them regularly using the right products and methods.
The chlorine in the wipes helps break down these molecules and neutralize the smell. You can also try other household products like vinegar or baking soda if you prefer something less harsh than bleach.
They can easily remove lint
Another great use for Clorox wipes is to quickly remove lint from leather items. Lint from clothing, other fabrics, and pet hair can easily find its way onto leather furniture or upholstery. The static cling of the lint attracts it to the leather surface and can be difficult to remove without leaving residue behind.
Using a wipe with a small amount of bleach will help break down the static bond between the fibers of lint and the leather material while also disinfecting the area. Just make sure not to press too hard when wiping as you don’t want to damage your item in any way.
They can quickly fix light stains
If you have a piece of leather that has been stained or smudged, Clorox wipes can quickly help remove those light stains. The chlorine helps to break down the molecules within the stain and makes it easier to completely remove from the fabric. Spills, dirt, and minor scuff marks can all be cleared up with a quick wipe of the surface.
However, it’s important to remember that you should never use them on leather items with visible stains or tears as this could cause the leather to become more damaged and create even larger problems. It’s also always best to test a small section of your item before applying Clorox wipes all over it just to make sure you don’t end up with an unwanted result. [1] [2]
Disadvantages of Using Clorox Wipes On Leather
Now, let’s cover the disadvantages of using Clorox wipes on leather. As mentioned before, using any kind of chemical cleaner on natural leather is not recommended by default. This is because natural leather can be very delicate and easily damaged by harsh chemicals. Clorox wipes are no different, as they have a bleach-based solution that could damage the leather. So let’s dive deeper into the potential consequences of using Clorox wipes on leather.
They can dry out the leather
When used regularly over time, Clorox wipes could cause damage to your leather items by removing their protective oils. Without those oils keeping the material soft, supple, and hydrated, it may become brittle and cracked.
For extra protection and shine on your leather items, use a conditioner specifically designed for them after every few cleanings. This will add back in any oils stripped away by the wiping process and help keep your leather looking its best.
They are unreliable
The other disadvantage of using Clorox wipes on leather is that you may not get the desired result of cleaning the surface properly without damaging it. While you can use them to spot-clean a small section, if you’re looking for deep cleaning results, then it is best to seek professional advice or use specific leather cleaners instead.
It is also important to remember that some types of leather, such as suede, cannot be cleaned with any kind of chemical cleaner.
They can lighten dark leather
Next, when using bleach-based products on leather, it is important to be aware that they can lighten the color of your material. This is especially true for darker leathers as the bleach has a tendency to take away some of their natural vibrancy.
If you do decide to use Clorox wipes on leather and need to lighten its color, make sure to test an inconspicuous area first before going ahead with the entire surface. This will help you determine how much and how often you should be using these wipes while still achieving your desired results without damaging the piece.
The last thing you want is to end up with a much too light-colored item that you weren’t expecting.
They can leave an unpleasant ammonia smell
Finally, when using Clorox wipes on leather, it is also important to be aware that they can leave behind a noticeable and unpleasant ammonia smell. This is due to the chlorine found in the bleach solution which has an incredibly strong odor when used on porous surfaces such as leather.
The good news is that this smell usually dissipates quickly with some fresh air or by wiping down the surface with a damp cloth. The bad news is that if you use too much of the product or don’t give it enough time to dry fully, then you may have to contend with a very pungent odor for longer than desired. [1] [2]
How to Use Clorox Wipes on Your Leather
If you are willing to take a risk and still decide to use Clorox wipes on leather, then it is important to do so using the proper technique. First and foremost, before getting started make sure you have an alternative cleaning method available for spots that may be too delicate or sensitive for the bleach-based solution. If not, then you should seek professional advice instead.
Don’t use too many wipes on your item
When you decide to use Clorox wipes, make sure that you limit the number of wipes used. Over-saturating your leather item can cause irreversible damage or discoloration. It is best to start by using one cloth at a time and removing any residue with clean water. Swipe in one direction only and resist the urge to double back.
A single wipe can be harmful enough but using several wipes in a row can make matters worse. After wiping down your item, it is important to check for any signs of discoloration or damage. If you notice any, stop using the Clorox wipes immediately and opt for another cleaning method instead.
Make sure the leather surface is dry
Before starting, make sure the surface you are about to clean is completely dry. This will help prevent any of the bleach from soaking in deeper than desired and causing unnecessary damage. It will also ensure that you are able to adequately spread the product across the material without it puddling up in certain areas or leaving streaks behind.
Simply dabbing at the surface with a damp cloth should do the trick.
Avoid wiping against the grain of the leather
Leather is famous for its grainy texture and natural markings, so you have to be extra careful when wiping. If the leather’s grain is damaged it may become prone to cracking or discoloration. Therefore, the best technique is to follow the original grain of the leather when using Clorox wipes. This means starting from one side and slowly making your way toward the other, cleaning one small area at a time.
Be gentle when cleaning
This applies to any type of leather, but especially to delicate or expensive items. When using Clorox wipes, you should be gentle and avoid scrubbing the surface too hard. Instead, use a soft cloth or rag and gently dab at the spot or stain. If you are cleaning an entire item such as a couch or chair, then use slow circular motions to distribute the product evenly on the surface of the leather.
Always test your wipes before using them
It is also important to always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area of leather before using it. This will let you know if the product is compatible with the type of leather and finish that you have. If there are no signs of discoloration or damage after allowing enough time for it to dry completely, then it should be safe to use.
Condition your leather items after using Clorox wipes
The key to cleaning leather with Clorox wipes without damaging your items is to always condition the leather afterward. This helps fill in any voids created by wiping away dirt and oils. Clorox wipes can dry out your leather and make it more brittle, so if you plan on using them, then it’s important to take some measures.
When using a conditioner on your leather, it’s important to always follow the directions on the product label. First and foremost, you should always test the conditioner on a small area that’s not visible before applying it all over, just to make sure there are no negative effects. For optimal results, you should use a soft cloth or brush to apply the conditioner in gentle circular motions. Allow the conditioner to fully absorb into the leather before buffing off any excess with another clean cloth or brush.
Using a quality leather conditioner is definitely one of the best ways to keep your leather looking great for years to come! [1] [2]
FAQ
How do you clean leather items safely?
Leather is a durable material that can last for years if it’s taken care of properly. However, it does require some special attention when you’re cleaning it so that its quality isn’t compromised.
When cleaning leather items, the safest and most effective method is to use a specially-formulated product designed specifically for treating leather. You should avoid any harsh chemicals like bleach or solvents which may damage or discolor the surface of your item. If you don’t have access to a dedicated cleaner, mild soap mixed with water will also do the trick in most cases.
What wipes can you use on leather?
When it comes to cleaning leather, you have a few options when it comes to what kind of wipes you can use. Generally speaking, the best type of wipe to use on leather is one that is designed specifically for cleaning leather items. These types of wipes are usually labeled as “leather wipes” or something similar and contain ingredients such as cleaners, conditioners, and moisturizers that are specially formulated for use on leather surfaces.
Clorox wipes may not be suitable for leather because they contain strong chemicals which can damage the delicate surface of the material. Additionally, some Clorox wipes include bleach in their ingredients list which can discolor certain types of leather over time. Therefore, if you choose to use Clorox wipes on leather items, it is important to do a spot test first and make sure the area you are cleaning won’t be affected by the chemicals.
It is always best to avoid using any type of abrasive products on leather items, especially when it comes to delicate surfaces like furniture. Instead, opt for gentle cleaners that are specifically designed for use on leather surfaces such as saddle soap, mink oil, or beeswax cream. These types of products will not only clean the leather but also condition and protect it from future wear and tear.
Can I use Clorox wipes on a leather couch?
When it comes to leather furniture, the short answer is no: you should not use Clorox wipes on your leather couch. Leather is a sensitive material that can be easily damaged by harsh cleaners like bleach. Not only does use bleach products like Clorox wipes risk discoloration and fading of your leather furniture’s finish, but it may also cause permanent damage or even cracking of the leather itself.
Instead of relying on chemical-based cleaning solutions like Clorox wipes, there are safer alternatives for cleaning and maintaining the quality of your leather furniture. To clean dirt and debris from a leather couch, use a lightly damp cloth or sponge with some mild soap – such as liquid dish detergent – to gently wipe away any dirt and debris. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with some distilled white vinegar mixed in warm water. This will help create a natural disinfectant to kill any bacteria or mold that is present on the surface of your leather upholstery. Make sure to thoroughly dry the surface of your leather after cleaning, as moisture can cause permanent damage.
Will Clorox wipe stained leather?
The most likely damage that will occur is staining of the leather, which can happen if any residue from the Clorox wipes remains on the leather. In addition, chlorine bleach can cause discoloration and crack in some cases.
Is Clorox ok for leather?
The short answer is that Clorox wipes should not be used on leather. While their active ingredients can provide a deep clean, they are too harsh for most types of leather and can result in discoloration, fading, or cracking. Leather is naturally porous and delicate, so it needs to be treated with special care. For that reason, it’s best to avoid using Clorox wipes when cleaning any type of leather material.
Instead of Clorox wipes, you should use a naturally balanced leather cleaner specifically designed for upholstery or the specific type of leather item you have. These cleaners help protect your leather from moisture damage while also providing gentle cleaning power without leaving behind any residue or streaks. When finished, make sure to condition the leather with a quality leather conditioner to help retain its natural oils and keep it looking new for years to come.
Useful Video: Clorox Wipes – How to use
Conclusion
In conclusion, Clorox wipes should not be used on leather items due to their harsh chemical composition that can cause permanent discoloration and breakdown of delicate fibers. These wipes are excellent for cleaning hard surfaces but when it comes to leather, they aren’t a choice we would recommend. Clorox wipes contain bleach, which can break down leather fibers and cause discoloration
Still, if you have faux leather, you can use Clorox wipes sparingly. Use a small amount of the wipe on an inconspicuous spot to test it before completely wiping the entire surface. If the faux leather is deemed safe, apply only a small amount to clean individual spots or areas that need extra attention. And don’t forget to condition and protect the leather afterward since it will most likely be robbed of all oils.
For genuine leather items, however, it’s best to use products specifically designed for leather cleaning and conditioning. Soaps and conditioners made with natural ingredients are great choices for keeping your leather looking its best without compromising its integrity. Not only will these products help protect your valuable investments but they will also be much gentler on delicate fibers than Clorox wipes.
The key takeaway is that while Clorox wipes might seem like an easy and convenient way to clean up dirt and grime on any surface, they shouldn’t be used on delicate leather materials due to their harsh chemicals. If you want to keep your leather items in top condition, make sure you invest in a specially formulated leather cleaner that is designed specifically for this type of material. Doing so will help ensure your pieces look great and last longer!
References:
- https://favoredleather.com/can-you-use-clorox-wipes-on-leather/
- https://leatherninja.com/can-you-use-clorox-wipes-on-leather/