Depending on the type of leather, different products should be used to remove stains from leather products.
Every stain on leather changes its chemical structure. Once the leather has absorbed dirt, oil, paint, etc., it is very difficult to remove.
Procedure for removing stains from leather
If you still try this, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always work with a small sponge, not with large or difficult-to-control rags or similar!
- Don't rub the leather, but work in dabbing motions!
- Allow all solvents used to work well!
Leather stain remover
Here's an overview of which types of stains can be removed with which products. These aren't household remedies, but they are products that are also used professionally to reliably remove stains.
| Type of stains | Removal agent |
| Tannin stains, fruit stains | Chlorine solution (100g chlorinated lime + 50g soda dissolved in 1 L water) |
| mold stains | Salicylic acid + spirit in a ratio of 1:4 |
| Oil stains, grease stains, lipstick stains | Carbon tetrachloride |
| Ink stains, copy pen stains | acetic acid oxalic acid, 1 part oxalic acid (crystalline) + 4 parts 96% acetic acid |
| bloodstains | cold soda water or acetic acid |
| Liqueur stains | spiritus + ammonia in a ratio of 1:1 |
| rust stains | 5% hydrochloric acid solution |
| Dirty and worn areas | Clover salt in aqueous solution |
You can find further information under the term "Cleaning Leather".
Source: Hegenauer, Hans: Specialist knowledge for leather, processing professions, Heyer, Essen: 9th edition 2012.
