How to clean and protect Alcantara

Alcantara is a synthetic man made material consisting of ultra-microfibre materials that looks like suede. It is not genuine Suede though.

Alcantara has become a common feature in high end modern day cars which usually have seat panels, dashboards and steering wheels made out of Alcantara. However, it is important to bear in mind that for the purposes that it is used especially in car interiors - it is actually much better than suede as the dyes don't fade quickly and it can be wet cleaned. 

Alcantara should be vacuumed at regular intervals and occasionally wiped with a damp cloth. In case of stains and normal dirt, we recommend using Geist. Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner. It contains plant and algae derived detergents and is completely free of traditional soap and solvents. 

Cleaning a large area: Ensure the product is set to foam function. Spray the product on a sponge and gently wipe the area in circular motions. On difficult stains, apply the product and leave it to work for longer (30 mins or longer even if required). Use a brush if required but do not scrub aggressively as it can damage the material. Avoid heavy scrubbing as you might damage the surface. Plant based products work best when you give them time. 
Wipe the surface down with a damp cloth to remove cleaner residue. Don't worry if some cleaner residue is left on the surface, it won't damage the material and won't attract dirt quicker. 


Removing difficult stains: Wet a sponge or a soft brush with some cleaner. Press foam out of the sponge. Clean the stained area in a circular motion. Then wipe with a damp cloth. Don`t rub too hard! Do not make it too wet! When stains can’t be removed, ask a professional upholstery cleaner before damaging the material.

Absorb fresh spillage immediately with an absorbent, clean cloth. Either dab or work from outside of the stain to the centre. Do not rub too hard. In case of big stains, work from seam to seam.

To reduce future soiling and stains, protect the surface with Geist. Fabric & Upholstery Protector. Heat should be kept away from Alcantara. For example cigarette burns cause irreparable damages in Alcantara.

Alcantara is prone to pilling. Abrasion causes the fibres to develop into small balls of fibres. If the surface is not too damaged, it can be restored with Geist. Sanding Pads. If the material is too damaged, consider replacing it. Contact an upholsterer local to you as they usually are able to re-upholster an individual panel. 

Geist. Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner, Protector, Sanding Pad & the cleaning brush is also available as a kit - Geist. Fabric & Upholstery Care Kit