Patent leather is a type of leather that has a shiny finish. It is often used in shoes, belts, and purses. Patent leather can be difficult to care for, as many traditional cleaning products can damage the surface. In this article, we will explore whether or not you can use Windex on patent leather, alternatives, and provide some tips for how to clean patent leather items safely.
Windex is generally made for non-porous surfaces and hard surfaces like mirrors and windows. Patent leather surface is non-porous just like glass or mirror so you will be able to use Windex on it from time to time.
It is not recommended that you use Windex on patent leather too frequently as it can cause some damages that you might not like. This is because Windex contains ammonia, among other harsh ingredients that can damage your patent leather when used too frequently.
There are a few ways to clean patent leather safely without using Windex. One option is to use a damp cloth with mild soap or detergent. Be sure to rinse the item thoroughly afterward and let it dry.
There are other products available that are specifically made for cleaning patent leather, such as KIWI® Patent Leather Cleaner & Conditioner.
Let me talk more about the benefits and downsides of using Windex on patent leather items.
The Pros Of Using Windex On Patent Leather
1. Windex Can Shine Patent Leather
Just as Windex can be used to shine or restore the shine of glass, mirrors, and other hard surfaces, it can be used to achieve a similar shine on patent leather.
Windex is formulated to remove streaks and smudges from surfaces, so it can be helpful in removing all sorts of dirt or marks from patent leather especially if it’s used sparingly.
2. Windex Can Help To Clean Your Patent Leather
If your patent leather item is looking a little grubby, Windex can help to clean it up. Just be careful not to use it too frequently as this could damage the surface of your patent leather over time.
All you will need to do is to spritz some Windex solution on a clean microfiber cloth and use it to wipe down your patent leather item. Be sure to avoid getting the fabric too wet, as this could cause water spots.
Do this only when it is necessary or only when you have run out of patent leather cleaner.
3. Windex Is A Convenient Option
When you are in a hurry or don’t have any other products available, Windex can be a convenient option for cleaning your patent leather items.
All it takes is a few spritzes on a clean rag and you’re good to go. Just be sure to use it sparingly and follow the other tips in this article to avoid damaging your patent leather.
Downsides To Using Windex On Patent Leather
1. Windex Contains Toxic Ingredients
One of the biggest concerns with using Windex on patent leather and any other surface is that it contains ammonia. Ammonia is a toxic chemical that, when used in high concentrations, can cause skin irritation and even poisoning.
And since a lot of the patent leather goods will generally come into contact with our skin in the form of patent leather shoes, boots, bags, jackets, to mention a few.
So cleaning your patent leather items with Windex is a huge health hazard you’d be exposing yourself to.
2. Can Leave A Cloudy Finish
Another con of using Windex on patent leather is that it can leave behind a cloudy finish on the surface. So if you’re trying to achieve that glossy, patent leather look, using Windex will over time result in a cloudy appearance.
This happens as a result of a gradual residue buildup on the surface of the patent leather from the chemicals in Windex.
In most cases, this kind of build-up can be very hard to remove and will require the use of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can further cause severe damage to your leather.
So it’s best to avoid using Windex on patent leather altogether to prevent this kind of damage.
3. Windex Can Strip Off Protective Coating On The Patent Leather
When you clean patent leather with Windex, it will strip off any protective coating that might be on the surface due to the ammonia content and isopropyl content.
This will leave your patent leather item unprotected and prone to further damage, as the surface won’t be able to withstand any kind of wear and tear.
Usually, the surface of all types of leather including patent leather is coated to prevent stains, water damage, and other kinds of wear and tear.
But when you use Windex on patent leather, it strips off this coating and leaves the surface unprotected.
4. Windex Can Also Discolor Your Patent Leather Item
Another con of using Windex on patent leather is that it can also discolor the surface. This happens because the chemicals in Windex interact with the dye used to color patent leather, and over time this will result in a faded or patchy appearance.
So if you’re trying to maintain that glossy, brand-new look of your patent leather item, using Windex is not the best option.
What Are Some Of The Best Alternative Cleaners For Patent Leather?
This now begs the question, what can you use to clean your patent leather items if not Windex? Well, there are a few options available that are specifically made for cleaning patent leather and a few household items that you can use as well.
Here are a few household items and products you can try:
Scentless Baby Wipes:
These are a great option to clean patent leather because they’re gentle on the surface and won’t cause any damage. You can find these at most drugstores or pharmacies.
You can use it to clean and shine your patent leather items on a daily basis so that they always look their best.
Microfiber Cloth:
Another common item that can be used to clean patent leather is a microfiber cloth. This is because it’s very gentle on surfaces and will not cause any scratches or damage.
You can use this to dust your patent leather items regularly and also as a way to remove any light dirt or stains from the surface.
You can also dampen the microfiber cloth with clean water and use it to wipe down the surface of your patent leather item.
Denatured Alcohol And Rag:
In case you have any tough stains on your patent leather item that won’t come off with baby wipes or a microfiber cloth, you can use denatured alcohol to remove it.
Make sure to test this on a small area of your leather item first to ensure that it doesn’t cause any damage.
If the alcohol does not cause any damage, pour some onto a clean cloth and use it to rub the stain in a circular motion until it disappears.
Remember to always dilute the alcohol with water before using it on your patent leather item. You can use them in equal parts.
Hand Sanitizer And Q-tip:
Hand sanitizer is another great option to clean not only tough stains off patent leather but also to remove scuffs. Simply apply a small amount of hand sanitizer onto a Q-tip and use it to rub the scuff in a circular motion until it disappears.
You can let it sit for about a minute and repeat the process if needed. As with the denatured alcohol, make sure to test this on a small area first before using it on the entire surface.
Vaseline:
If you have a patent leather item that has a dry, cracked surface, you can try using Vaseline to moisturize it and help repair the damage.
Simply apply a small amount of Vaseline onto a cloth and rub it into the surface of the patent leather in a circular motion.
Let it sit for about 30 minutes and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. You can do this once a week to help keep your patent leather item in good condition.
Leather Conditioner:
If you want to keep your patent leather looking shiny and new, using a leather conditioner is a must. You can purchase this at most stores that sell leather products or online.
Just apply it in accordance with the instructions on the bottle and use it every few months to keep your patent leather item looking its best.
Patent Leather Cleaner:
The best and most effective way to clean patent leather is by using a cleaner that is specifically made for this type of leather. These products are specially formulated to clean and protect patent leather without causing any damage.
You can find these cleaners online or at most stores that sell leather goods. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle so that you don’t damage your patent leather item.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! The pros and cons of using Windex on patent leather. We hope you found this article helpful and that you now have a better understanding of how to care for your patent leather items.
Personally, I will not recommend using Windex on patent leather or any surface that comes into contact with our skin directly.
Windex might be fine for use on patent leather, but it is not the best option, especially for everyday use. There are many other household items and products that can be used to clean patent leather and we have listed some of the most common ones above.
When cleaning patent leather, always remember to test a small area first before using any cleaners or products on the entire surface. This will ensure that you don’t cause any damage to your beautiful patent leather item.
If you do choose to use Windex on patent leather, be sure to test it in an inconspicuous area first, and only use a very small amount. Apply the Windex to a soft cloth, and then gently wipe the surface of the leather.
Avoid scrubbing, as this can damage the finish quickly. If you are cleaning a large area or an item with many nooks and crannies, it might be best to use another cleaner.
Remember, if you’re not sure how to clean your patent leather item, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions before trying anything yourself. And as always, thanks for reading!
