How to Remove Grease Stains from Leather

Grease and oil stains can be tricky to remove from leather. The residue left behind seems to leave a permanent mark. Use the method below to draw the grease out of the leather and remove the stain for good.

• Talcum powder
• Lint free soft cloths (microfiber cloths work well)

1. Try to treat the stain immediately.
2. Blot the stain with a microfiber cloth. Remove as much of the grease as possible.
3. Cover the stain liberally with talcum powder.
4. Allow the powder to sit on the stain overnight. The powder will draw the grease and moisture out of the leather.
5. In the morning, brush off the powder and the stain will be gone.

• Similar to the grain of wood, leather has a “lie” or a line of texture to it. If possible, apply any cleaning products following the lie. If you can’t see the direction of the texture, work from the outside of the stain towards the center.
• If the leather is not protected, the grease will soak in and will be nearly impossible to remove completely. Treating the stain immediately is your best bet for any chance of removing the stain. Once set, you may be able to lighten it with the method above.
• If the leather has a protective finish on it, a water-based leather cleaner should remove the stains. Apply the cleaner following the package guidelines.
• Once clean, apply a stain guard to the leather surface. This will allow for easier clean up and stain removal for future spills.