How to Clean White Leather

Mix a Cleaning Solution
You can purchase commercial leather cleaners or soaps, but it is very simple to make your own. Mix your cleaning solution in a spray bottle and be sure to label it clearly. Choose from one of these formulas:
- One part Castile soap with eight parts lukewarm water.
- Two parts distilled white vinegar and one part linseed oil or olive oil.
Wipe Leather with a Damp Cloth
Dampen a microfiber cloth with clean tap water and wipe down the white leather. This will remove dust and some surface soil.
Spray the Cleaning Solution on a Cloth
Rather than spraying directly onto the leather, spray the cleaning solution onto a clean microfiber cloth. This will prevent over-wetting and possible watermarks.
Wipe Down the Leather
Starting at the top of a piece and working in small sections, wipe down the leather with the cloth sprayed with the cleaning solution. Use a gentle, circular motion, and do not scrub. If soil remains, use a bit more cleaning solution.
Buff the Leather
Once the white leather is clean, use a dry microfiber cloth to gently buff the leather—no need to rinse away the cleaning solution.
How to Tackle Tough Stains on White Leather
- Oil or grease: Sprinkle the area liberally with baby powder or cornstarch. Allow the powder to remain on the stain for at least four hours—the oil will be drawn into the powder.
- Ink stain: Blot away any damp ink with a white paper towel. Dip a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and rub the cotton swab on the stain. As the ink is transferred, move to a clean swab.
- Scuffs: You can use a melamine eraser (like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser) to gently buff away scuff marks. Be extremely careful not to scrub—it can remove the surface finish of the leather.
- Mildew Stains: For small areas of mold, mix equal parts cool water and rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol). Use a clean white cloth dipped in the mixture to wipe down the leather. For extensive mold, professional anti-fungal treatment may be necessary.
Tips to Keep White Leather Clean Longer
The yellowing of white leather is caused by exposure to air pollution. The material oxidizes, and the leather fibers start to break down. While it is impossible to prevent yellowing completely, there are some things you can do to help keep leather white:
- Avoid exposure to nicotine and cigarette smoke.
- Clean the leather regularly.
- Use a good leather conditioner every six months or so to protect the surface from cracking. The conditioner also slows oxidation.