Leather is a durable and versatile material that can last for decades with proper care. However, with daily use and the occasional oops, stains can occur. Different stains require different cleaning methods, so I will discuss how to remove stains from leather through this guide from a leather crafter.
How to remove stains from leather is cleaning unwanted spots from leather without damaging the material. Stains can be removed from leather with pH-neutral soap and water, leather cleaner, or rubbing alcohol. While prevention is best, getting rid of stains can make leather look new and last longer.
Do you own a leather bag, couch, or jacket with marks and discoloration from coffee or wine? Stains on leather are unsightly and difficult to remove, but in this article, we will discuss tips on how best to deal with them.
What Is Removing a Stain From Leather?
Removing a stain from leather includes getting discolorations and marks from oil, water, ink, wine, crease, coffee, and more that would otherwise leave leather blemished forever. There are several methods for removing stains that are specific to the types of stains and preserve the integrity of the leather.
What We’ll Explore
- Clearing up Myths & Misconceptions
- Reasons You Might Choose To Remove a Stain From Leather
- Variations or Styles of How To Remove a Stain From Leather
- How To Remove a Stain From Leather Overview Table
- Skill Level of Removing a Stain From Leather
- Tools and Supplies Needed To Remove a Stain From Leather
- How To Remove a Stain From Leather Step by Step
- How To Get Better Removing a Stain From Leather
- My Personal Research on How To Remove a Stain From Leather
- Helpful Insights on How To Remove a Stain From Leather
- Key Takeaways
Clearing Up Myths & Misconceptions
It has long been believed that chemicals like nail polish remover and alcohol can be used to remove stains from leather. This is untrue because these harsh chemicals can cause discoloration and damage the leather.
Some have said olive oil is good for removing stains, but unfortunately, it only makes leather greasy and darker. I’ve even heard that stain-removal methods can be used for all types of leather. This is also false because specialty leathers, like suede, cannot be cleaned with water.
Reasons You Might Choose To Remove a Stain From Leather
Leather is durable and water-resistant; however, stains occur with daily use and the occasional spill. Stains on leather are unsightly and annoying, and removing them can keep leather looking great. Other reasons for stain removal include:
- Restore appearance
- Better durability
- Improve feel
- Special occasions
- Prepare for donation/sale/handing down
Variations or Styles of Removing a Stain From Leather
Different types of leather and stains dictate the methods of stain removal to be used. However, the common variations for removing a stain from leather include:
- Distilled water
- PH-neutral soap and water
- Leather cleaner
- Baking soda
- Rubbing alcohol
How To Remove a Stain From Leather Overview Table
| Area of Preparation | Details |
| Technique | How To Remove a Stain From Leather |
| Overall Level of Skill (1–5) | 3 |
| Time to Complete (minutes/hours) | 30 minutes–8 hours |
| Workspace Needed | Steady working surface and a bowl or sink |
| Skills Needed | Basic leather care |
| Tools and Supplies Needed | Distilled water, pH-neutral soap, water, bowl, leather cleaner, baking soda, rubbing alcohol, soft cloths, leather conditioner |
| Key Helpful Tip | Test products in an inconspicuous spot first, avoid getting leather too wet, air dry rather than apply heat, and apply leather conditioner once dry |
Skill Level of Removing a Stain From Leather
Leather stain removal can be challenging because many substances stain, and the wrong treatment can damage leather. The skill comes from knowing what type of leather it is and the correct variation of stain removal. Knowledge about leather bonds is also important.
According to researchers Toshev, Markevich, Kodirov, and Zhuravleva, processes are used to modify leather bonds to change surfaces for dyeing and finishing, and these can be adversely affected by some chemicals. It also helps to know a bit about basic leather care to not only remove the stain carefully and clean and condition it appropriately for a supple, beautiful finish.
Always condition leather after stain removal to prevent drying out and cracking.
Tools and Supplies Needed To Remove a Stain From Leather
Most tools and supplies for removing leather stains have simple ingredients, but if not readily available, they are easy to find in any general merchandise store. Here’s what is needed:
- Distilled water
- pH-neutral soap and water
- Leather cleaner
- Absorbent white powder or baking soda
- Rubbing alcohol
- Sink or bowl
- Soft cloths
- Leather conditioner
How To Remove a Stain From Leather Step by Step
Getting a stain out of leather can be a delicate process that requires proper care and products. Generally, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any leather cleaning products. Otherwise, to remove a stain from leather, follow these basic steps:
- When a spill occurs, quickly blot it up with a soft cloth or paper towel. Do not rub, as this will spread stains.
- Learn what type of stain and leather you are dealing with. Absorbent leather should not be cleaned using liquid cleaners.
- Test any stain removal method on an inconspicuous spot first to check for staining and colorfastness.
- Apply a liquid leather cleaner or a combination of pH-neutral soap and water to a microfiber or lint-free cloth.
- Gently rub the stained area using a circular motion, careful not to saturate the leather.
- Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any excess cleaner.
- Allow leather to dry thoroughly away from heat.
- Always apply leather conditioner after stain removal and complete drying time.
How To Get Better at Removing a Stain From Leather
It takes time, patience, and practice to get better at leather stain removal. Start with small stains and work up to larger ones, and experiment with different cleaning methods to see what works best. Research different leather types and stain removal processes and learn from mistakes. With a little time, anyone can be an expert at removing a stain from leather.
Watch this helpful video from Life Hack demonstrating how one stain removal method does not work on all stains on leather.
My Personal Research on How To Remove a Stain From Leather
What are the best methods for removing a stain from leather? Below are the most commonly occurring stains on leather and the most effective methods for removing them.
| Leather Stain | Removal Method |
| Water | Distilled water or pH-neutral soap and water |
| Ink | Rubbing alcohol |
| Grease | Absorbent white powder/baking soda |
| Cooking oil | Absorbent white powder/baking soda |
| Coffee/tea | Distilled water or leather cleaner |
| Lipstick | Rubbing alcohol |
Helpful Insights On How To Remove a Stain From Leather
Does vinegar remove stains from leather?
Although vinegar can and is often recommended for removing stains from leather, it is acidic and best avoided. Vinegar does not match the pH of leather and can dry out and damage the material’s fibers over time, leading to cracking and breaking.
Does leather stain come off?
Most stains on leather come off with the right stain removal methods. Water stains come out with distilled water or leather cleaner, oil stains with absorbent white powder, and ink with rubbing alcohol. It may take more than one application, and apply leather conditioner once the leather has dried.
How do you remove stains from leather interior?
Stains on leather interiors can be removed with leather cleaner, pH-neutral soap and water, or rubbing alcohol, depending on the type of stain. Use a soft cloth or paper towel to blot any spills when they occur, and avoid rubbing on stains, as this will cause them to spread.
Does Toothpaste remove stains on leather?
Although toothpaste can remove stains, there are many different types of toothpaste, stains, and leather, so it’s best avoided. Toothpaste often contains hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent and works to remove stains on light-colored leather, but there are also abrasive materials that can scratch and colorants that cause stains. A better option for leather stain removal is pH-neutral soap and water, leather cleaner, or rubbing alcohol.
Does hydrogen peroxide remove stains from leather?
Hydrogen peroxide is a bleach-like substance that can remove stains but also causes leather discoloration and is best avoided. While hydrogen peroxide is a common cleaning agent for many surfaces, it can be too harsh for leather.
What is a homemade stain remover for leather?
Depending on the type of stain, several homemade removers are safe to use on leather. Baking soda can remove grease and oil, distilled water removes water stains, rubbing alcohol removes ink, and distilled water or leather cleaner removes coffee and tea. Always test homemade products in an inconspicuous area first for colorfastness and staining.
Does WD 40 remove leather stains?
WD 40 is great for getting squeaks out of door hinges but not stains out of leather. Better options include pH-neutral soap and water, distilled water, rubbing alcohol, and leather cleaner. If these methods don’t remove a stain, one can always consult with a professional cleaner.
Key Takeaways
- Leather stain removers include leather cleaner, distilled water, pH-neutral soap and water, and rubbing alcohol.
- Test any new product in an inconspicuous area to check for staining and colorfastness.
- Always condition leather after stain removal to prevent drying out and cracking.
In Closing
Removing stains from leather may seem daunting, but it can be accomplished with the right tools and techniques. From water to grease and oil stains, there’s a stain removal method that is safe for leather and will restore it to its original beauty. Hopefully, the tips here from this leather crafter are useful and successful.
Other Resources:
- How to Clean Leather – The Simple Steps to Quality Results
- How To Clean White Leather – Unique Methods for This Color
- How To Clean White Leather Shoes – Safely and Easily
- How To Clean Leather Boots – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Wash A Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How To Get Wrinkles Out Of Leather for Different Leather Types
- How To Clean A Leather Purse – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Disinfect Leather – Safe and Effective Methods
- How to Clean Mold From Leather – An Easy Step-by-Step
- How To Clean a Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How to Clean Leather Chairs – Step-by-Step from Experience
- Magic Eraser on Leather – Why It Should Generally Be Avoided
- How To Clean Patent Leather – Properly and Easily
- How To Wash Faux Leather – Clean Results Without Shrinking
- Can You Iron Leather? – When and How This Can Work Great
- How To Get Paint off Leather – While Protecting the Fibers
- Can You Steam Leather? – When It Works and How To Do It
- Water Stain on Leather – Easily Make It Look New Again
- How To Remove Creases From Leather Shoes Properly and Easily
- How To Polish Patent Leather Shoes and Preserve the Surface
- How To Clean Leather Sandals Without Shrinking Them
- How to Wash Leather – Based on Unique Leather Types
- How To Get Stains Out of Leather – Without Damaging Leather
- How To Clean a Leather Couch or Sofa With Proper Care
- Successful Methods To Easily Clean Leather Car Seats
- How To Clean Leather Shoes Properly – Step by Step
- How To Clean Leather Furniture – Methods and Options
- How To Get Pen or Ink Out of Leather in Just a Few Minutes
- How To Clean a Leather Bag – Step by Step in Minutes
- How To Clean Leather Gloves – Steps, Tips, and Success
- How To Clean a Leather Wallet – With Helpful Maintenance Tips Too
- How To Get Sharpie Permanent Marker off Leather