Are Leather Seats Afraid of Sunlight?
2 Answers
Leather seats are definitely affected by sunlight, but generally, their normal service life won't be compromised. Additionally, purchasing sunshades to cover the windows can prevent direct sunlight exposure. Nowadays, most car buyers opt for leather seats when choosing a vehicle because they are aesthetically pleasing, durable, easy to clean, comfortable to the touch, and their porous structure provides good breathability with a smooth surface. The maintenance methods for leather seats are as follows: 1. Apply polish: When the car is newly purchased, apply a layer of polish to the leather seats to add a protective layer, laying a good foundation for future use. 2. Regular maintenance: Use a professional leather cleaner to wipe the seats once a month for upkeep and stain removal. Professional leather cleaners are gentle on stains and do not damage the leather. After each cleaning, gently dry with a soft cloth or let it air dry naturally. Avoid using a hair dryer or exposing them to direct sunlight.
Genuine leather seats are definitely afraid of sun exposure—I learned this the hard way. Last summer, I parked my car in an open square for just two hours to save time, and the seats became too hot to sit on. A week later, the driver's seat back started fading and turning white, and it felt stiff to the touch. Later, I found out that high temperatures and UV rays break down the oils and fibers in the leather, making it brittle and prone to cracking. Now, I always try to park in the shade, and if that's not possible, I use a sunshade to cover the seats. I also use professional leather conditioner once a month for maintenance—it’s much cheaper than replacing the entire set of seats. Remember, genuine leather is like human skin; it can’t withstand harsh sun exposure.
