How to Get Sunscreen Off Leather

Sunscreen, a standard everyday product, can leave stubborn stains on your leather handbag or leather jacket, causing discolouration and damage if you don't treat it appropriately. In this guide, we'll walk you through how sunscreen affects leather, how to get sunscreen off leather, and how to prevent future stains.

How Sunscreen Affects Leather

Due to its oily nature, sunscreen can damage leather. Over time, the oils can seep deep into the material, leading to dryness, cracking, and discolouration. The longer the sunscreen remains, the harder it becomes to remove, increasing the risk of permanent damage.

Different types of leather react differently to sunscreen stains, so knowing the leather type is crucial for effective cleaning. For example, you should clean aniline leather, which is highly porous, only with absorbent powders like talcum, cornstarch, or baking soda to prevent further damage. 

If you own a leather wallet, leather backpack, or bag made from aniline leather, it will require this gentler approach. Suede leather and PU leather (synthetic or faux leather) also need special care and specific cleaning techniques to avoid harming the material.

Meanwhile, pigmented leather has a protective coating and can tolerate more potent cleaning substances, such as dish soap or vinegar. 

How to Get Sunscreen Off Leather

When getting sunscreen out of leather, the most important thing you can do is act fast. Here are the steps to take immediately:

1. Blot the stain: Gently blot the stained area with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb any excess sunscreen. Avoid rubbing the stain, which can push the sunscreen deeper into the leather.
2. Apply powder: Sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch or talcum powder onto the stain. These powders help absorb oils, especially on porous leathers like aniline and suede. Let the powder sit for 15-20 minutes or overnight for stubborn stains. 
3. Brush it off: After letting the powder sit, gently brush it off with a soft-bristled brush or cloth. Use a dry microfiber cloth. Repeat the process if necessary, until the stain is no longer visible. 

The next thing you'll want to do is clean the leather. The method you choose will depend on the severity of the stain.

Note: Always check with the manufacturer first to ensure your chosen cleaning method is safe for your leather product. Not all leather products tolerate the same cleaning methods well. 

For Light Stains, Use Mild Soap and Water

1. Mix the solution: Combine 2-3 drops of gentle, dye-free, and perfume-free liquid hand or dish soap with 1 cup of lukewarm distilled water. Stir until the soap dissolves completely.
2. Clean the stain: Dampen a soft, lint-free cloth or sponge in the soapy solution. Dab the stained area gently, avoiding rubbing or scrubbing, which can damage the leather's surface.
3. Dry the leather: After you've lifted the stain, wipe away any soap residue with a clean, damp cloth. Pat the area dry and then let it air-dry completely, keeping it away from direct heat or sunlight. This method is excellent for PU or synthetic leather. 

For General Stains: Use Leather Cleaner

1. Please choose the right cleaner: Pick a gentle, pH-balanced leather cleaner suitable for your leather type to avoid stripping away its natural oils.
2. Apply the cleaner: Follow the product's instructions. Typically, you'll apply a small amount of the cleaner to a soft cloth and gently rub it onto the stained area until the stain lifts.
3. Buff and dry the leather: Once the leather has absorbed the cleaner and the stain has lifted, buff it with a dry, soft cloth and allow it to air-dry.

For Deep Stains, Use Baking Soda Paste

1. Create the paste: Mix three (3) baking soda with 1 part water to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste: Spread the paste over the stain and let it sit for a few hours or overnight, depending on the severity of the stain.
3. Remove the paste: Once it has dried, gently brush it off and clean the area with a damp cloth. Be sure to dry the leather thoroughly afterwards.

For Extra Oily Sunscreen, Use Vinegar and Water

If the sunscreen stain is particularly oily, using a solution of vinegar and water can help to negate the oil:

1. Combine 1 part distilled white vinegar with two (2) parts waters.
2. Use a soft cloth to gently apply the vinegar-water solution to the stain, not oversaturating the leather. Once the stain has lifted, wipe away the solution with a clean, damp cloth and pat the area dry.
3. Let the leather dry naturally.

Conditioning Your Leather Post-Cleaning

After removing the sunscreen stain, condition the leather — but only if the manufacturer recommends it, as oil-based stains like sunscreen can strip the leather of its natural oils. Test it on a small hidden area first.

Choose a conditioner suitable for your leather type. Mink or neatsfoot oil can restore suppleness, while pigmented leather may require a dedicated conditioner. Apply a small amount using circular motions with a soft cloth, let it absorb for 15 minutes, then buff the surface to restore shine. Avoid oils like olive or coconut, as they can leave residue and potentially damage or darken the leather.

When to Seek Professional Help for Sunscreen Stains

DIY cleaning can work for your average stains. Still, we recommend seeking professional care for deep-set sunscreen stains or if you're uncertain what a particular type of leather will tolerate. Tooling leather or leather that features intricate designs also requires the help of experts, who can safely remove the stain using specialised products and techniques. Professional leather cleaners use industrial-grade solutions that are safe for all leather types and can offer tailored treatments to restore your item's original look and feel. In some cases, dry-cleaning leather may also effectively eradicate a sunscreen stain.

How to Prevent Future Sunscreen Stains on Leather

Preventing sunscreen stains from happening in the first place is the best way to protect your leather goods. Here are some tips for avoiding future blemishes:

• Use leather protectants: If the leather manufacturer deems them safe, a leather protectant spray can form a barrier that helps repel oils and stains, including sunscreen. This makes future cleaning more manageable and protects your item against environmental damage.
• Clean and condition regularly: Clean your leather goods monthly to prevent dirt and oils from accumulating. Conditioning helps maintain suppleness and prevents cracking, extending the leather's lifespan.
• Please avoid direct contact with sunscreen: After you apply sunscreen, allow your skin to absorb it thoroughly before you handle your leather items.
• Use a cloth or towel: When applying sunscreen, place a towel or cloth between your skin and leather to protect your leather goods from accidental splashes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to get sunscreen out of leather?

To remove sunscreen from leather, gently blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth. Then, apply a mild soap solution or leather cleaner to the area and finish by conditioning the leather to restore suppleness.

Why does sunscreen stain leather?

Sunscreen contains oil-based ingredients that penetrate the porous surface of leather, causing stains and potentially damaging its texture and colour over time.

Do sunscreen stains come out?

With the proper cleaning techniques, you can remove sunscreen stains, though your success will depend on how quickly you treat the stain and the type of leather.

Will vinegar remove sunscreen stains?

A diluted vinegar and water solution can help break down sunscreen stains. Use it cautiously and test it on an inconspicuous area to avoid damaging the leather.

Can sunscreen permanently stain leather?

Yes, sunscreen can permanently stain leather if you don't clean it promptly. The oils in sunscreen can penetrate the leather, leading to discolouration, dryness, and cracking over time.

How often should I condition my leather after cleaning?

If the manufacturer recommends, condition your leather after each cleaning to restore moisture and flexibility. Monthly conditioning is ideal, or more often for heavily used leather items.

Can I use regular soap to clean my leather bag?

It's best to use a mild soap free of dyes and fragrances, as harsh soaps can strip away the leather's natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to cracking.

How can I prevent sunscreen stains on my leather goods?

To effectively prevent stains, use leather protectants, clean your leather regularly, and avoid direct contact between sunscreen and leather. Also, keep your leather items clean and conditioned to create a protective barrier.