Homemade Leather Stain Removers

Stains on leather furniture or clothing can be frustrating to try to remove and can be heartbreaking when you see your valuable item

Not only can stains on leather furniture and clothing be heartbreaking, but they can also be frustrating to remove. You need to find a cleaner or stain remover that is gentle enough that it won't damage the leather but strong enough to remove the stain.

The good news is that many items you already have laying around your house can often work as homemade leather stain removers. Just make sure to test any cleaner you plan to use in an inconspicuous area such as under a cushion or on the back of the furniture before tackling the stain to make sure it won't damage the leather.

Ink Stains on Leather

Got a nasty ink stain on your leather couch or chair? Try removing it with isopropyl alcohol. Dip a q-tip into some alcohol and gently blot the ink stain to remove. You may need to repeat the application.

You may hear many people suggest using hairspray on ink stains. The reason hairspray works is because of the alcohol in it.

Another option you can try if you don't have alcohol is cuticle remover. Just dab the cuticle remover on the stain, allow it to set and then blot it up with a clean cloth.

With any of these methods try not to rub the stain since this can spread it. Use a gentle blot and lift motion instead. And be sure to test in an inconspicuous place first!

Water Spots on Leather

Surprisingly you can remove water spots from leather using more water. Dampen a sponge and wipe it over the area where the water spot is. Allow it to dry naturally. When it dries the water spot should be gone.

Another way to treat water spots is with a slice of bread. Ball the bread up in your hand and then roll it over the water spot until it is gone.

Spots and Stains on Leather

Try using toothpaste to remove spots from leather. Just gently rub it into the surface of the leather and then wipe off with a clean rag.

Or, you can also make a paste from lemon juice and cream of tartar and use it in the same way to lift surface spots and stains.

Prevention is the Best Option

Obviously preventing stains on leather in the first place is the best option. Always use caution when eating, drinking or doing work on or around leather furniture. For leather table tops or surfaces, make sure you always use coaster under drinks to prevent the glass from sweating onto the surface.

You may also want to consider applying a commercial leather protector to help protect the leather from stains before they happen.