Dye transfer stains from clothing, especially denim, are a common issue on leather car seats and sofas. Lighter-colored leather shows these stains more visibly, and the longer the dye stays on the leather, the more difficult it is to remove. Here's how to effectively remove dye stains from leather, depending on the type of leather.

Best Way to Remove Dye Stains from Leather

If you have pigmented, monochrome, semi-gloss, or smooth leather, most dye stains can be removed with the right leather cleaning products. However, if the dye has penetrated the surface, you may need to use a dye restorer to repair the leather.

Follow these steps to remove dye stains:

1. Start with Cleaning: Use Geist Rapid Leather & Vinyl Cleaner or Geist Rapid PRO Leather Cleaner for tougher stains. For best results, use a Geist Leather Cleaning Brush to work the cleaner deep into the leather grain. This step helps lift the dye from the surface without damaging the leather.

2. Use Ink & Dye Remover for Stubborn Stains: If regular cleaning products don’t remove the stain, apply Geist Ink & Dye Remover. This plant-based formula is safe for leather, PU, and PVC surfaces. It removes dye transfer without damaging the top coating (clear coat) or altering the leather's finish.

   • Apply the remover and leave it to work for at least 30 minutes. For older or tougher stains, let it sit longer, or overnight if needed. Use a cotton bud to gently rub the stain and lift the dye. Avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent damage.

3. Re-colour If Necessary: If the dye stain is still visible after cleaning, you may need to re-colour the affected area. Use Geist Easy Colour Restorer to match the original color. Contact us for a color match based on your sample.

4. Protect the Leather: After cleaning, apply Geist Dye & Friction Blocker to protect the leather from future stains and discolouration. This product creates a protective barrier against abrasion, stains, and dye transfer. Use it every 3 to 6 months for maximum protection, especially on light-colored leather.

How to Remove Dye Stains from Faux Leather

The cleaning process for faux leather is the same as for real leather. If the dye transfer stains persist and cannot be removed, even recoloring may not completely fix the problem, as the dye may resurface.

Recommended Products for Removing Dye Stains on Leather:

• Geist Rapid Leather & Vinyl Cleaner: Ideal for regular cleaning if the leather surfaces are generally clean.
• Geist Rapid PRO Leather & Vinyl Cleaner: Stronger cleaner for more durable, heavily soiled leather.
• Geist Leather Cleaning Brush: Helps get deep into the leather grain and remove discoloration and dirt.
• Geist Ink & Dye Remover: A powerful, plant-based ink remover that is safe for all leather surfaces.
• Geist Dye & Friction Blocker: Protects leather from future staining and dye transfer.
• Geist Easy Colour Restorer: Custom color match for restoring faded or stained leather.

By following these steps and using the recommended products, you can effectively remove dye stains from leather and faux leather, keeping your car seats and sofas looking pristine.