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What are everyone's favorite leather treatments? Also if you have time, why? (Q includes leather clothing, luggage, shoes, etc.)
Here's what I like:
1) Tanner's Preserve cleaner/conditioner (2 part). Made by Eagle Ottawa. I like it because it goes on nicely and leaves a very smooth, dry, shiny, non-greasy finish. That's good for me, beacuse I have to slide across the seat to get in, as I'm not big enough to have the seat back and down out of the way when I drive. A conditioner that leaves the leather too tacky causes it to pull when I get in and out of the car which is hard on threads and the leather itself. Also Tanner's preserve has a great smell, which is nice for using on leather clothing. I'm impressed at how soft it keeps leather, especially once it works it's way in.
By the way, does ANYONE know where to get this anymore? I used to get it at Wally World, but they've discontinued it. I guess the "one step" products are just too compelling for the "average" automotive customer.
2) Lexol. I don't especially LIKE Lexol because it smells like rancid peanuts. Personally I think it's overrated. Also has a weird-feeling finish that I've never been able to figure out. But it keeps the leather soft, if you're diligent about washing it and washing away the cleaner solution before the conditioner is applied.
3) Blue Magic 2-part. I think they either buy Lexol's product, or ripped off the formula. I can't tell any difference. Also smells like rancid party nuts.
4) Saddle soap. Good for initial cleaning or cleaning of really bad spills. I use it on "lesser" leathers, and plastics. It removes dirt from plastic & vinyl trim very effectively. Can remove dye from leathers (in trace amounts). I use it on my "beater" leather coat and on boots. Anything that gets dirty quickly. Best results: wash ALL the suds off before letting it dry. That keeps the conditioners in the leather but gets rid of the cleaner.
Thanks!
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Chris Herbst
1992 945, 71k
independent volvo shop tech
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