You shouldn't use non-leather products for cleaning your leather, whether they're all-purpose cleaners or vinyl cleaners. If you really have to use a non-leather cleaner then do a spot test on an inconspicuous part of the leather using the all-purpose cleaner first to see if might end up damaging the leather or not.
Don't bother trying that out with the vinyl cleaner, which really should only be reserved for vinyl. Some cleaners can contain ingredients like bleach that could result in leather discoloration (especially if it's black leather).
Other cleaners leave streaks that are hard to remove. You should also avoid spraying or applying too much solution on your leather. Apply the cleaner moderately instead of liberally.
Using a Leather Cleaner on Your Car
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Follow the instructions or directions on the label of cleaning products like KevianClean Leather Cleaner on how to use them. Usually, it involves something like applying a small amount of your leather cleaner to a damp applicator pad, a microfiber towel, or 100% cotton rag. Work the cleaner and cloth up to a soapy lather and then apply it on the leather surface using the gentlest of pressure. Other times, you can spray the cleaner directly on the surface.
- Clean Everything Leather on Your Car: Apply or wipe the cleaner on the door panel, dash, and/or seat that's been upholstered with leather. Otherwise, use an all-purpose cleaner like KevianClean Interior Defense for plastic components or a vinyl-specific cleaner for all vinyl components. Do your cleaning one section at a time to allow you to clean up then wring dry the rag or towel after cleanup of the section is done.
- Use a Soft Brush on Especially Dirty Areas: Use a soft brush on top of your cleaner and applicator on areas where the sugary spills have gummed up or the dirt and grease have combined to form sludge. The brush is there to gently lift the dirt from the leather's pores. Unlike with vinyl or fake leather like pleather/plastic leather, leather has pores because it's essentially cowhide turned into upholstery fabric. It used to be skin complete with pores.
- Apply Gently Then Rinse Thoroughly: Remember how when you shampoo your hair, you're supposed to lather gently and rinse thoroughly? All cleaners used on your leather should also be thoroughly rinsed because cleaner residue that isn't rinsed isn't any better than uncleaned messes and caking dirt. It can damage your leather and leave a stain as much as your perspiration and cola spills could. Dry off the leather with a big fluffy cotton towel or an unused/cleaned-off microfiber towel.