If you’ve ever wondered if you can use Clorox wipes to clean your leather furniture, bag, jackets or shoes, you’re not alone.

The idea of grabbing a wipe and giving your leather items a quick clean is super tempting. After all, Clorox wipes are pretty convenient, right?

But before you start wiping away, it’s important to know that using Clorox wipes on leather might not be the best idea. In fact, it can actually damage the leather over time.

In this post, I’ll explain why you should NOT use Clorox wipes on leather, and what to use instead.

Why Clorox Wipes Are Bad For Leather

First things first, leather is a delicate material. It’s not like wiping down a countertop or a plastic surface. Leather needs a little more TLC. Here’s why Clorox wipes aren’t good for leather:

#1 Harsh Chemicals

Clorox wipes are packed with chemicals, including bleach and other strong ingredients that are designed to disinfect. While that’s great for hard surfaces, it’s not something you want on your leather.

The bleach can break down the natural oils in the leather, which can weaken the material.

Over time, this can cause your leather to lose its softness and flexibility.

It’s kind of like when you use a harsh cleaning product on your skin—it may feel clean, but it ends up drying you out and causing damage. Leather is no different.

Also Read: Can You Use Acetone On Leather?

#2 Drying And Cracking

Another issue with Clorox wipes is that they can dry out your leather.

Leather, being a natural material, needs moisture to stay flexible. The chemicals in the wipes can strip away that moisture, leading to cracks and stiff leather.

If your leather item is already a little worn or old, this effect can happen even quicker.

The more you use wipes with these harsh chemicals, the more your leather will dry out and start to show signs of wear.

#3 Risk Of Discoloration

Discoloration is a real risk when using Clorox wipes on leather.

The strong chemicals in the wipes can alter the color of your leather, especially if it's a lighter color.

Even if you don’t see a change right away, the wipes can cause fading or uneven color over time.

And let’s face it—leather can be expensive, so you definitely don’t want to risk your favorite bag or chair getting ruined by unwanted spots or fading.

#4 Makes Leather Rough

Leather is soft and smooth when it’s well cared for.

Clorox wipes, though, can leave your leather feeling rough or sticky. It disrupts the leather’s natural texture and can make it feel uncomfortable to the touch.

If you’ve ever tried to use a disinfecting wipe on your hands, you might notice that your skin feels a little strange afterward. The same thing happens to leather.

Over time, it loses its buttery feel and starts to feel rougher and less luxurious.

Safe Alternatives For Cleaning Leather

So, if Clorox wipes are off the table, what should you use to clean leather?

The good news is there are plenty of safe, easy alternatives that won’t ruin your items. Here are a few options that will help keep your leather looking great:

Mild Soap

A gentle soap mixed with warm water is one of the simplest ways to clean leather.

You don’t need anything fancy - just a mild, unscented soap. Dish soap or baby shampoo are great choices because they’re gentle and won’t harm the leather.

Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the soapy water, and gently wipe down your leather item.

Be sure to avoid soaking it - just a little moisture is enough.

Once you’ve wiped it down, take another cloth dampened with just water to go over the surface again to remove any soap residue. Then, use a dry cloth to pat the leather and let it air dry naturally.

It’s a super simple way to clean without risking damage.

Microfiber Cloth

Sometimes, all you really need is a microfiber cloth.

Microfiber is soft, non-abrasive, and effective at picking up dirt and dust without scratching the leather. You can use it dry to wipe down your leather or dampen it with water to give it a deeper clean.

The best part? Microfiber won’t damage your leather, and it’s great for everyday maintenance.

When using a microfiber cloth, avoid rubbing too hard. Just gently go over the surface, and you’ll see that your leather looks cleaner and fresher in no time.

Leather-Specific Cleaners

If you’re looking for something made specifically for leather, there are plenty of leather cleaners on the market.

These cleaners are designed to clean leather without stripping away its natural oils or causing damage. They usually come with instructions that guide you on how to apply them.

Just be sure to choose a product that’s free of harsh chemicals, and always test it on a small, hidden area first.

Leather cleaners can often come with conditioning properties as well, so you’re not only cleaning but also keeping your leather soft and moisturized. Bonus!

Bottom Line

Clorox wipes may be handy for a lot of things, they’re not the best choice for leather. The chemicals in those wipes can do some serious damage over time, leaving your leather dry, cracked, and rough.

But don’t worry, there are lots of safer alternatives to keep your leather looking and feeling great.

A little mild soap, some leather-specific cleaner, or a microfiber cloth can go a long way.

Leather is an investment, and taking care of it with the right cleaning methods will help it last longer and stay looking fresh.

Can You Use Clorox Wipes On Leather?