One of the most popular questions when it comes to faux leather is whether or not you can use a magic eraser on it. In today’s article, we’ll be answering that question once and for all.
So, can you use a magic eraser on faux leather? The short answer is No! You should never use a magic eraser on faux leather, as magic eraser is a very abrasive material and will damage the surface of the faux leather material.
However, you can only use magic eraser on your faux leather if you would want to give your leather a vintage look or a distressed look. If that’s the case, then go ahead and use a magic eraser on your faux leather. But other than that, I don’t recommend using magic eraser to clean stains on faux leather items.
Not to leave you high and dry, in the rest of this article, I’m going to give you some alternatives to using magic eraser on your faux leather. So, if you’re looking for ways to clean tough stains on your faux leather without damaging it, then read on!
Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Use Magic Eraser On Faux Leather
So it’s clear using magic eraser on your faux leather items is not a very good idea. Why? Do you ask? Here are a few reasons:
1. Magic Eraser Is Abrasive
As I mentioned earlier, magic eraser is a very abrasive material. This means that it will damage the surface of your faux leather if you use it to clean stains.
Magic eraser is a little bit like sandpaper. The abrasiveness of a magic eraser is similar to that of a 3000 grit to 4000 grit sandpaper. It’s great for taking off tough stains on certain surfaces, but it’s not something you want to use on your faux leather.
The abrasiveness of magic eraser will damage the topcoat of your faux leather and over time, this will lead to the deterioration of your faux leather. So, if you value your faux leather items, then you should avoid using magic erasers on them.
2. Magic Eraser Will Leave Scratches On The Faux Leather
Due to the abrasiveness of magic eraser, it will also leave scratches on the surface of your faux leather. These scratches can be quite difficult to remove and they will make your faux leather look old and worn out.
This is because the magic eraser essentially removes a layer of the topcoat every time you use it. So, if you use it too much, then you’ll end up removing all the topcoats and this will damage your faux leather beyond repair.
So, if you want to keep your faux leather looking new and fresh, then you should avoid using magic eraser on it.
3. Magic Eraser Can Cause Discoloration
Another problem with using magic eraser on faux leather is that it can cause discoloration. This is because the eraser removes a top layer of the material, which can result in a change of color.
Meaning the color of the faux leather item you’re using could become significantly faded or even changed entirely. If you’re trying to clean a white faux leather couch, for example, using a magic eraser could turn it yellow.
This is why it’s always important to test the cleaning method on a small, hidden area first before going crazy with it. That way, if there is any discoloration, you can avoid it altogether.
4. Magic Eraser Will Give New Faux Leather An Overused Look
If you’re not going for a vintage or distressed look, then using a magic eraser is not a good idea. This is because the magic eraser will give your new faux leather an overused look.
This is also due to the abrasiveness of the eraser, which will not only damage the topcoat but make it look old and worn out. So, if you want to keep your faux leather looking new, then you should avoid using magic eraser on it.
5. Magic Eraser Will Not Remove Embedded Stains or Dirt
Because the magic eraser has a flat surface, it may not be able to remove embedded stains or dirt from your faux leather. This is usually the case if the faux leather is textured or has some patterns on it.
To be able to get rid of all the dirt and stains, you will have to put a lot of pressure which will result in further wearing out and damage to the faux leather.
The magic eraser may only be able to remove the surface dirt and not the embedded dirt, which means you’ll still have a stain on your faux leather.
So, if you’re looking for a way to remove embedded stains or dirt from your faux leather, the magic eraser is not the best option.
6. Magic Eraser Will Give Leather A Dull Look
Another thing that magic eraser does to faux leather is that it gives it a dull look. As a result, the color and shine of the faux leather will become faded. So your faux leather will not be as vibrant as it was before.
To avoid this, you should use a different cleaning method that will not damage the topcoat or make the faux leather look dull.
There are many other ways to clean your faux leather without damaging it. So, if you’re not sure about using a magic eraser, then you can try one of those methods.
Alternatives to Using Magic Eraser on Faux Leather
Now that we’ve established why you shouldn’t use magic eraser on faux leather, let’s look at some alternatives. These are methods you can use to clean tough stains on your faux leather without damaging it.
- Use Soap and Water
One of the simplest and most effective ways to clean faux leather is with soap and water. This method is great for removing surface dirt, dust, and stains.
To do this, you will need a mild soap or detergent and a soft cloth. Mix the soap with some water to create a lather and then rub it onto the faux leather in a circular motion.
Once you’ve covered the entire surface, wipe it off with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
- Use Vinegar and Water
Another great way to clean faux leather is with vinegar and water. This method is especially effective for removing tough stains.
To do this, you will need to mix equal parts vinegar and water. Then, using a soft cloth, apply the mixture to the stained area and rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
- Use Baking Soda and Water
Baking soda is another good cleaning agent to use on faux leather. You can make a paste with water and baking soda, then rub it into the stain with a soft cloth. Wipe it off with a damp cloth afterward. Repeat if necessary!
Baking soda contains no harsh chemicals and is gentle enough to use on most surfaces. So this is definitely a good option if you’re looking for a safe and effective way to clean your faux leather.
- Use Rubbing Alcohol
If you’re dealing with a tough stain, you may need to resort to using rubbing alcohol. This is a strong cleaning agent, so you should use it sparingly.
To use this method, simply apply some rubbing alcohol to a soft cloth and rub it into the stain. Wipe it off with a damp cloth afterward.
- Use Baby Wipes
Baby wipes are another great option for cleaning faux leather. They’re gentle enough to use on most surfaces and are effective at removing dirt, dust, and stains.
To use this method, simply take a baby wipe and rub it into the faux leather in a circular motion. Wipe it off with a damp cloth afterward.
- Use a Leather Cleaner
There are many different leather cleaners on the market that you can use to clean your faux leather. These cleaners are designed specifically for cleaning leather and won’t damage it.
To use this method, simply follow the instructions on the cleaner. Most cleaners will require you to apply the cleaner to a soft cloth and then rub it into the faux leather. Wipe it off with a damp cloth afterward.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning faux leather shouldn’t be tricky, but it’s important to use the right methods to avoid damaging it. Magic eraser is not the best option for cleaning faux leather. It can damage the topcoat and give the leather a dull look. There are many other options you can try that would be a lot safer and more effective.
As you can see in this post, there are many different ways to clean your faux leather without damaging it. So, if you’re not sure about using a magic eraser, then you can try one of these other methods. Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful. 🙂
