Introduction (How to get rid of stains on Tesla seats. Especially white ones, especially jeans)
Since 2017, Tesla no longer produces models with genuine leather seats. This is due to animal rights activists and pressure from society.
However, the seats in modern Teslas look great and are very high quality, even in white “vegan” color.
Nonetheless, these two materials are very different in characteristics and must be properly cared for. For example, artificial leather cannot absorb chemical care products, so genuine leather care products are not suitable.
By the way, artificial leather is indeed often more practical and less dirty. However, there are spots from which absolutely no one is immune. For example, traces of jeans.
Appositely, White seats are part of the White Interior premium package. For the Tesla Model 3 and Y, it costs an additional $1,000 on top of the MSRP, and for the Model S and X, it costs $2,000 more.
Add to that the care of the seat materials is needed, especially if you’re not going to buy seat covers (I don’t think you’d go for white leather if you were going to wear seat covers, right?)
There is an established opinion that Tesla’s seat upholstery is made of a special material (probably magic), which is very easy to clean. Let’s check if this is the case.
Is the Tesla white interior easy to clean?
Tesla’s manual says that to clean the seats of an electric car, you only need warm water and soap without detergents. However, you should just go to the nearest forum, and you will see not too pleasant reviews about this method. Many drivers complain that this method is not suitable, to put it mildly, for all types of spots.
Here are some really effective ways to get rid of stains on your Tesla seats.
What can I use to clean my Tesla seats?
-
Soap
This method seems a little strange at first glance. However, why not? It is safe for humans and effective against dirt. And although this is not what comes to mind at the first moment – this method is worth considering when choosing products for getting rid of stains.
Please note that hard brushes should not be used in this method. Use only a soft, clean cloth, such as microfiber.
Do not press on the seat while cleaning. Light circular motions will be enough. It is also important to allow the seats to air dry, otherwise you can get rotting.
-
Baby wipes
Many people ask: “Can I use alcohol wipes on Tesla seats?”. This is highly discouraged. In addition to alcohol, they often contain solvents and other chemicals, which can lead to unexpected, and often irreparable (or difficult to correct) consequences.
It is better to use baby wipes for these purposes. They are gentle on the leather on your seats and effectively remove stains such as jeans marks.
Today there are also special wipes for cars. They can be found in auto stores and even online.
-
Isopropanol
In old Tesla manuals, you can find isopropyl alcohol as a recommendation for removing stubborn stains from polyurethane seats:
“As soon as possible, wipe stains in a circular motion with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a non-foaming soap. For stubborn stains on seats, use isopropyl alcohol and wipe with a damp cloth. Allow seats to air dry after cleaning.
However, it must be said that in the new versions of the instructions this part was removed. No one can say exactly why it happens, but we found some videos on YouTube using it and you know, it looks really good.
-
Distilled water
This method, perhaps, is most often found on the forums of Tesla owners and fans. This is really the most harmless and often effective way. However, only for “light” stains.
Use a microfiber cloth to wipe off surface dust. Unfortunately, you are unlikely to be able to remove large and complex stains this way.
-
Special chemicals
Today, there are many household chemicals that remove even stubborn dirt from various surfaces. However, you should be careful. Use plenty of water so you don’t damage the seats, or better yet, buy a product made specifically for faux leather.
Large specialized markets even have special products for car seats. By purchasing such a tool, you know for sure that it is adapted to your problem.
There are even whole sets of seat care that include vinyl, air conditioning, ceramic coating and much more. Such products can even prevent the appearance of cracks, remove dry skin and make it soft.
Attention!
Pay attention to the ingredients. They must be harmless to humans. Do not forget that you will be breathing these exhausts for some time in the car.
By the way, in this blog you can also learn more about cleaning tools.
So let’s take a look at 3 of the most popular Tesla seat cleaners on the market. The rating is based on dozens of owner reviews:
2in1 artificial leather cleaner and conditioner
Pros:
Caution: Before processing, be sure to test the product on a small area out of sight. Not recommended for suede or nubuck.
Apply a thin layer with a soft cloth and let dry without polishing. One layer is enough. Repeat every three months. This will help prevent contamination.
And now, when you have decided on the method, it’s time to study the video instruction.
By the way, if you care about your Tesla’s exterior as well as interior upholstery, then you should check out our article “Do teslas have non stick paint“.
