jfelbab

Real leather or faux is all the same when it comes to stains. When you are looking at either coated leather or faux leather you are looking at a coating. These products are painted to provide uniform color and have a clear urethane topcoat. It is this coating that allows a dye to penetrate and stain the product. There are fluorocarbon based protection products available that can prevent this staining. I use one from Leather Masters called LM Protection Cream. These differ from conditioners which will not prevent stains.

Dye transfer stains will penetrate deeper into the coating the longer they are in contact so quick removal is important. The one product that has been 100% successful for me at removing dye transfer stains is Leather Master Dye Transfer Cleaner. You can find it on-line and it is not all that expensive. Once you remove the stain, apply the Protection Cream and remain stain free.

Real coated leather or faux leather should be kept clean to keep it looking good for a long life. Regular cleaning is needed for both types. I use the LM Strong Leather Cleaner diluted 50/50 with hot water for this. Pour on a foam pad and agitate to generate a thick foam and apply to a 1' x1' section with brisk but gentle scrubbing action. Use care to not over-wet the area, especially if perforated, and wipe dry with a white cotton towel to see if soil is being removed.

For more on caring for leather see my posts in the Automotive Care & Detailing forum.

JRandy

I use Lexol Leather Conditioner on the leather in my '13 Luxury Package ES every three months. I drive in denim jeans or shorts with wide leather belts probably 75% of the time. I have never had a stain or used a cleaner on it. The gray leather is beautiful. It might not work on the leather in the Ultra Package though, as it says not to use it on extremely soft leather. By the way I also use the conditioner on my belts when they get to looking a little dry.