Cleaning and caring for buffalo leather

Buffalo leather feels warm and natural, but is more sensitive than conventional automotive leather. This article shows how to care for it correctly, treat stains and when professional refreshing makes sense.

How do I recognise buffalo leather?

Buffalo leather has an open-pore or slightly velvety surface. The simplest test: rub in a drop of water in a concealed area. Does it soak in and briefly darken the leather? Then it is open-pore leather.

Over time, buffalo leather becomes greasy and shiny, often fades and absorbs stains more easily than surface-dyed smooth leather. This is not a defect, but a characteristic of the material.

In addition, this leather changes colour through use and exposure to sunlight. Some examples become darker, others lighter. This is particularly noticeable with partial repairs: new leather barely matches the colour of the aged remainder.

Care for new or well-preserved leather

Care for new or still well-preserved buffalo leather with Colourlock Aniline Protector. It protects against drying out and fading without changing the natural appearance. If there is an increased risk of staining, for example with light colours or vehicles with many passengers, additionally treat it with waterproofing afterwards. In case of heavy use, repeat no later than after one year, then more frequently depending on use.

Cleaning stained or greasy leather

For stained or greasy leather, use the complete Suede Leather Care Set. The set contains everything needed for thorough cleaning and care at home. The leather will be cleaner and cared for afterwards, but buffalo leather will never be completely like new after signs of wear.

Additionally degrease slightly greasy areas with Leather Cleaning Spirit; do not work too wet. Treat fresh grease or oil stains immediately with Grease Absorber Paste.

Protect again with waterproofing after cleaning.

Colour refreshing for darker buffalo leather

Fading on darker buffalo leather can be refreshed with Colourlock Nubuck Fresh in a suitable colour. First degrease the surface over a large area with Leather Cleaning Spirit.

Important: buffalo leather is highly absorbent; a complete suite generally requires around 1 litre of tint. This is considerably more than for smooth leather. Please plan accordingly.

When does a workshop make sense?

For extreme fading, heavily greasy main contact areas or when an even overall result is desired, professional treatment is the better choice. We have experience with buffalo leather and will be happy to advise you.