BMW Steering Wheel - How to clean Alcantara Steering Wheel?

[imported_SilverStallion]

As asked in the subject, what would one use to clean a BMW Alcantara steering wheel with what appears to be a woman`s makeup (ie. powder), and perhaps some natural oils from one`s hands over a few months? I use Lexol on leather - what should I use on the BMW suaede like material? This 05 330i Coupe has the same material on the shifter knob and boot as well...I guess this was a new styling touch for 05 M Sport 330s. I love the way it looks, but I am not sure as to how practical it will be.



This is a new trick for me as I have the Alcantara seats in my M Sport, but they never get dirty - I put down towels if I am sweaty and I come from the gym.



Suggestions from those who have cleaned it before? Thanks in advance.



~Darren

[s2skimon]

I detail a friend`s M3 and he`s got the same thing..

here`s what i`ve used

-remove dust with vaccum, if it becomes soiled wipe with damp cloth, then dry cloth

- porsche tekquipment velour cleaner

- "steam it" -steam softens the material and can be brush back into shape



bmw canada don`t even have the slightlest clue of doing it either.. if it is really bad, i know they will replace the entire steering wheel for you..

[brwill2005]

Leather Master, available at Top of the Line, makes a foaming suede/nubuck cleaner. The key with suede is to not get it too wet. Leather Master`s cleaner does not get the suede that wet, but cleans very well.

[Anthony O.]

I would not use a steamer on it nor any type of heat.



It can be cleaned with a damp microfiber but do not wet the material first then clean it as this may leave water rings. Leathermaster makes some great products but remember, Alcantara is NOT identical to suede.



Anthony

[diesel pub]

Care instructions from the horse`s mouth:

http://www.alcantara.com/eng/english.html

Click "maintenance alcantara".



There are comprehensive instructions for water soluble, non-water soluble, and other stains. Too bad the pages are all in Flash, so I can`t copy and paste all the text.



In short, vacuum and damp cloth for maintenance. Stains can be treated with lemon juice (water soluble) or ethyl alcohol (not water soluble). Any contact with steam should be avoided. See the site for more details.