How to care for leather seats in the Algarve heat

Leather seats add class to an interior, but in the Algarve they’re one of the materials that suffer most. The temperature inside a car in the sun easily passes 60 °C, and that dries out the leather, fades the colour and, over time, leads to cracks and splits that can’t be undone.

Why leather cracks

Leather has natural oils that keep it supple. Heat and UV evaporate those oils; without conditioning, the surface stiffens and cracks at the highest-stress points — seat bases and bolsters.

The right routine

• Clean off dust and dirt with a dedicated leather product (not harsh detergents)
• Condition with a leather conditioner every 2 to 3 months in summer
• Use a sunshade and park in the shade where you can
• Wipe up sweat, suncream and drinks straight away — they stain and degrade

Common mistakes

All-purpose cleaners and alcohol strip the oils and speed up drying. Too much conditioner leaves the surface oily and slippery. The balance is to clean well and condition in moderation, always with dedicated products.

When a professional is worth it

If the leather is already dull, stained or starting to crack, an interior restoration deep-cleans, conditions and brings back colour and feel before the damage becomes permanent. It’s far cheaper than replacing the seats.