Alcantara Cleaning
Summary: Alcantara requires a special cleaning process compared to other interior fabrics.
Special thanks to our contributors:
Discord: Saturn, Jeyy, and Ryan
Alcantara and Dinamica are brand names for a material that’s commonly known as micro-suede or ultrasuede. It’s a delicate material that requires special maintenance and cleaning.
Wear Driving Gloves
Oil and sweat from your hands are the biggest problems when it comes to microsuede steering wheels and interior panels such as armrests. The oils will smear onto the material and appear matted or worn quickly. Add the fact that your hands gripping a steering wheel or you sitting in the seat will compress the fibers over time, and you have a recipe for a very ugly interior.
Wearing driving gloves can prevent that oily transfer from your hands and drastically cut down on the amount of cleaning you need to do when it’s time for maintenance. Plus you’ll look cool.
Monthly Maintenance Cleaning
If the Alcantara is compressed and you can’t move the fibers by running your finger back and forth over it, it’s time for a maintenance clean.
Brush and Vacuum
For basic maintenance or light cleaning, regular vacuuming is essential to prevent dirt from embedding into the fibers. In areas subjected to frequent use, the Alcantara may appear flattened. To revive the fibers, gently brush them with a soft bristle brush or microfiber cloth. No chemicals required. Use a vacuum to remove larger debris such a dirt and crumbs.
Water Wipe-down
You can also perform maintenance by lightly dampening a microfiber with water. Use it to gently wipe the surface, pulling out any embedded dirt or grime. Opt for light-colored microfibers to easily see the dirt being lifted from the fabric.
Be Gentle and Avoid Strong Chemicals
Use very light pressure and a super soft material when brushing, scrubbing, and vacuuming on Alcantara. The material has a very delicate weave and it’s easy to damage but difficult to repair.
Additionally, only use water or a dedicated Alcantara cleaner. Don’t use anything strong such as an all-purpose cleaner.
Deep Cleaning
It happens: You forget to do maintenance and wind up with a less-than-stellar interior. You can save it with a deep cleaning using a dedicated Alcantara cleaner.
- Vacuum
- Microfiber cloth
- Alcantara cleaner
- Sonax, Colourlock, and Dr Beasley’s make great options
- Vacuum the surface to remove debris.
- Brush out any remaining stains, oils, or compressed fibers.
- If the stains persist: apply a small amount of cleaner to a microfiber, then work the product onto the Alcantara without applying excessive pressure to distribute it.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the duration the product should remain on the fabric. After the allotted time, gently agitate the area with minimal pressure using a microfiber cloth or brush until the fibers regain their mobility and no more dirt is visible.
- Once the fibers are loosened, use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to remove the product.
- Dry the area with a clean microfiber cloth.
- Finish by vacuuming or brushing to restore the natural standing position of the fibers.