Frequently Asked Questions

Most faux leathers are polyester or synthetic fabric with a polyurethane (PU) coating. These are different than and not as durable as vinyl (PVC).

Faux leather that is peeling, flaking or delaminating from its own backing is rarely worth repairing. Learn how you'd repair it and why we don't recommend it here.

Faux leather that has worn more naturally, exposing a microfiber or fake suede without any peeling, can be stained with our paints and coated with a clear wax to restore the leather-like appearance. Learn how here.

Rub 'n Restore® colors and clear finishes are water-based acrylics and do not alter the feel of leather or vinyl. However, there are a few exceptions:

• Absorbent aniline leather with a warm velvety texture may slightly cool in feel after being refinished. The leather will continue to breathe and may remain absorbent, but it will be more fade and stain resistant.
• Worn areas or materials with a subtle nap like suede, nubuck or microfiber may stiffen as a result of being refinished / painted, and we discourage using our products on these materials.

Rub 'n Restore® finishes, once dry, will not stain clothing.

Color transference to a paper towel or white clothing is sometimes observed with bright colors containing a lot of primary (red, blue, yellow) pigments. Buff the surface with a dry rag to remove any unstable pigment, and consider an additional clear sealer. 

If color has transferred to clothing, pre-treat the garment with detergent (washing soda or borax are even better, if you have them) and a gentle scrub brush. Then launder as usual. The color should wash out.

Filler repair putty is cured when mostly clear and no longer tacky. A heat lamp, incandescent bulb, or sunny window are typically needed to elevate the surface temperature to 120º – 145º F (49º – 63º C). Humid climates can slow cure time.

Rub ‘n Restore® finishes dry in minutes. When it feels dry, it is dry and ready for another coat or use.

Cure time (when the color is unaffected by water) varies depending on temperature and humidity. For example, leather seats in a car parked in the Arizona summer sun will cure in a day. A boat in a humid climate may take weeks to cure but can still be used.

Prevent water from pooling on any surface for extended periods of time. The worst that may occur is slight discoloration of the finish, and this often ‘dries down’. If it doesn’t, simply touch-up the color, and allow more time to cure before exposure to water.

A noticeable change of color may require periodic touch-up, where a matching color does not. Dog claws, rowdy kids, and chemical cleaners will eventually take their toll on any finish.

Fortunately, touch-up is easy. Ensure the surface is clean and free of body oil or conditioner, and reapply as needed. 

Soft Filler repair putty will last any where from six months to two years. Minimize air exposure and keep refrigerated to extend its shelf-life.

Rub ‘n Restore® colors and clear finishes are guaranteed for one year from date of purchase, though we find these products are shelf-stable for many more. Store finishes in a temperate, dark place away from children. Rubber band your stir stick to the bottle, and use it to re-disperse the pigments until smooth and creamy. Colors that have sat a long time may need several minutes of vigorous stirring to reconstitute the color.

Our finishes are water-based acrylics designed for leather and vinyl. They look, feel, and age naturally. They also work on upholstery that repels water where balms and dyes don't.