Hello
Make sure you know what type of finish you are dealing with before embarking on this. You can do the following tests, visual, touch, scratch, moisture absorbency, and microscope, these will enable you to correctly identify the type and proceed with the correct cleaning proceedures.
Aniline leathers always appear not to clean very well. You will only be able to clean what is sitting on the surface as anything else will have been absorbed and will be impossible to remove. They will absorb a lot of product due to the fact that they are unfinished. All anilines need a good leather protector that works which will inhibit dirt and oils from being absorbed and then when they are subsequently cleaned the dirt will sit on the protector and not be in the leather so will be easier to clean.
A foam cleaner should be used (we do one ready to use as a foam) and all products should be water based without any silicones, waxes or oils which will in time damage the leather.
If you want cleaning instructions we have them on our website
www.LTTsolutions.net and we offer a helpline service on 01423 881027 if you want to talk it through.
You can also use a restorative cleaning method to redye aniline leather which has faded. Pigments should be avoided as these change the nature of the leather. Aniline dyes are available and are relatively easy to use if required.
You will often find that a good leather protector will also go some way to restoring the colour.
Unfinished leather is becoming more and more popular and it is advisable to get some training on the different types before plunging in too deep.
Wet cleaning should not cause colour to come out of an aniline as it is cleaned, if this was the case it would mark clothing when people sit on it.
Testing in an inconspicuous place is not necessary as an outside back will always react differntly to the places that have been sat on so will give no indication of what will happen when the whole unit is cleaned.
Hope this helps please contact us if you need help
Regards
Judy
