DIY Network

Cleaning Leather Learn how to remove those pesky ink spots and water stains from leather. From "Home Made Easy" episode DHME-156

Guest Linda Cobb, the Queen of Clean®, explains how to properly clean leather. She demonstrates how to remove ink spots and water stains and even tells you how to give your leather products CPR!

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	The Queen of Clean®, Linda Cobb, shares tips on how to clean your leather products.
	Figure A
	Figure B

Cleaning Leather

Materials:

sponge
slice of bread
cuticle remover
soft cloth
vinegar
linseed oil
jar with lid
leather CPR and applicator

• Removing Water Spots. The first way is to run a damp sponge over the area and allow the leather to dry. The second way is to roll a slice of bread in your hand, then rub each water spot firmly with the ball of bread (figure A). The oil and starch in the bread will remove the water spots from the leather.

• Removing Ink. Dab cuticle remover (NOT nail polish remover) on the ink spot (figure B) and rub gently with a soft cloth. Then wipe the remover and buff the surface. For tough stains, allow the remover to sit for ten minutes or so before rubbing. This works for vinyl as well.

• Making Hide Food. A great way to clean and care for your leather is to make "Hide Food." It is easy to make--mix one part vinegar and two parts linseed oil in a jar with a lid. Shake well and apply it to the leather with a soft cloth. Be sure to change the cloth frequently as it soils.

• Leather CPR. Leather CPR is a wonderful commercial product that saves and prolongs the life of your leather. You can use it on all leather except suede-type leathers. It is perfect for furniture, auto interiors, shoes, purses, boots, belts, etc. Simply work it in with the applicator and then lightly buff. It will keep the leather from cracking and splitting. It is great to use in the car or home.

Royal Tips:

• For light colored leather, patch test a small hidden area.

• Leather CPR is clear and leaves no residue.

Next: Cleaning Shoes

RESOURCES :

Leather CPR
Website: www.leathercpr.com

GUESTS :

Linda Cobb
The Queen of Clean®
Website: www.queenofclean.com