What kind of applicator can I use when applying Lexol? Pep Boys is selling a 99cents wax applicator that is round with a lil divot in the middle. Is that ok to use? I tried using a rag for applying the cleaner but I could not get any lather to work out. Any ideas?

Maximus1997SE

 

Are you referring to the Lexol conditioner or the Lexol cleaner when you mention the "lathering" effect? Since my leather is pretty clean, I don't use cleaner on it, just a slightly damp cloth to wipe clean the seats, allow them to dry, then follow-up with the Lexol conditioner application.

In any event, the Lexol conditioner goes on your leather seats like a cream. You spray it on the leather (try to avoid overspray if you can by spraying to on small amounts or spray it onto a clean, dry terry cloth), spread it with a CLEAN, dry terry cloth, let it sit for ~15 minutes or longer, then wipe it off with another CLEAN, dry terry cloth (you don't need any special applicator for it--just a marketing gimmick in my opinion). I'll sometimes follow-up with another clean, dry terry cloth to buff up the leather a little more and to cutdown on any potential greasy residue feel to it.

I'm emphasizing to use a CLEAN cloth, as if you have a dirty cloth, you can scratch up the leather if there are small bits of hardened dirt in it. Also, before applying any leather conditioner/cleaner, first vacuum your car interior to pick up ANY potential dust or mini-rocks that may have settled in between your leather seams, as those places seem to harbor lots of stuff that can be picked up with your terry cloth when applying the cleaner or conditioner.

In any event, you won't get a "lather" with the Lexol conditioner product--it's just a spray on, let sit for 15 min., then wipe off. If you're using this product for the first time and your seats need some help (a little dry, then you might want to apply a second application or more frequent applications in the initial month of use). Regular use of the Lexol (once every 1 or 2 months (but more often in the summer when it's hot out), and your leather will stay like new).

Oh yes, one gripe about the Lexol conditioner is its smell. If you've ever worked with cadavers, you'll know what I'm talking about. However, despite the smell, which will last about 2 days in your car, it's probably the best stuff out there for leather. Have fun.

 

The $0.99 wax applicator could probably work out. I've never tried that method, but it might be worth a look at trying. I've been using terry cloth towels as I had bought ~30 of them in bulk for about $8 from Costco. Besides, the terry cloth towels are pretty easy to reuse--just throw them in the washer (don't put your other laundry in with them!), dry them and they're ready to be reused again!

 

I apply the Lexol conditioner by hand, you use less and can feel the leather underneath (if there's any dirt that may scratch it). I also don't like the smell of Lexol, but Eagle One's leather creme smells much better and leaves less greasy residue.