With its sleek and modern look, white leather is popular for everything from couches to handbags. Yet those who have owned white leather for a while will attest to the fact that it is prone to yellowing. Unfortunately, if it is not cared for properly, that bright, brilliant white can fade to a dull, ugly yellow.
Once your white leather does start to fade, there’s little that can be done to fix the problem. That means your best defense is a good offense. Leather Honey Leather Cleaner and Leather Honey Leather Conditioner will help you properly clean and care for your white leather. Here's what you need to know.
WHAT CAUSES WHITE LEATHER TO YELLOW?
White leather yellows as part of the natural oxidation process. In other words, it’s simply what the leather is prone to do over time and exposure to the elements. Oxidation is the breakdown of the fibers from interaction with elements in the air.
While you cannot prevent this process completely, and white leather is going to yellow after a few decades, you can slow it. Keep the leather well lubricated with Leather Honey Leather Conditioner and your white leather will last as long as possible.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO CLEAN WHITE LEATHER?
Another way to help prevent the oxidation process is to clean the leather correctly when it gets dirty. Harsh chemicals will lead to premature yellowing, so be careful. Any time you are going to clean leather, test a small, discreet area first.
Before you begin cleaning the white leather, check the tag on your item. Leather is a natural fiber, so it often has different recommendations from one item to the next. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations before you begin cleaning.
To clean white leather, begin by removing any loose surface dirt, but do so gently. Then, lightly apply your leather cleaner. Massage the leather with the cleaner, doing a small area at a time.
Once your white leather is dry, you should apply Leather Honey Leather Conditioner to seal in the natural moisture. The conditioner will help prevent the oxidation process.
WHAT TO DO WITH YELLOWED LEATHER?
This cleaning process can effectively remove many types of stains and dirt from white leather, but it will not restore yellowed leather. Unfortunately, there is little that can be done once the leather has begun oxidizing and turning yellow. Some who appreciate the look of aged leather and understand that this is part of the process find that they don’t mind. If you do mind, take precautions to protect your leather, and you’ll find that it keeps its white glow for many years.
CAN YOU USE A MAGIC ERASER TO CLEAN WHITE LEATHER?
If your white leather shoes are scuffed, you can use a Magic Eraser-type product to gently buff away the marks. Try not to rub too hard, as the Magic Eraser can remove the natural finish on your leather. Even if you don't think the eraser has harmed the white leather, we recommend applying Leather Honey Leather Conditioner afterward just to be safe.
CAN YOU REMOVE INK STAINS FROM WHITE LEATHER?
You can remove ink stains from white leather by first soaking up the ink with a paper towel or rag. Once the ink is soaked up, apply Leather Honey Leather Cleaner to the stain. Use a small amount; a little goes a long way.
HOW DO YOU RESTORE DIRTY WHITE LEATHER?
Cleaning white leather is the first step toward restoring the product. Follow our guide above and then, once the leather is dry, apply Leather Honey Leather Conditioner. For best results, clean and condition your white leather at least once every six months.