Sticky Leather Steering Wheel? Here’s How to Fix It Safely
If your steering wheel feels sticky or looks greasy, it’s not just gross—it’s probably coated in skin oils, product buildup, and grime. Here’s how to safely clean it without drying or damaging the surface.
Why Steering Wheels Get Sticky
Over time, sweat, skin oils, lotions, and even food residue build up on your steering wheel. Combine that with sun exposure and heat, and it can leave your leather or plastic wheel feeling sticky or tacky—sometimes with a shiny glare that looks terrible.
The Wrong Way to Clean It
Using a strong degreaser or alcohol-based cleaner may fix the stickiness temporarily—but it can also strip or dry out leather and discolor plastic. Some people even make the mistake of using glossy dressings, which attract dust and make it worse.
The Right Way: Clean with a Balanced Interior Cleaner
Complete Cabin Cleaner is a purpose-built interior cleaner that safely removes oils and grime without damaging or over-drying the surface. It leaves a natural matte finish—no shine, no tackiness.
What You’ll Need
- Complete Cabin Cleaner
- Soft interior-safe microfiber towel
- Optional: Scrub Buddy Pad for deep cleaning textured areas
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Spray Complete Cabin Cleaner onto your towel or Scrub Buddy—not directly on the wheel
- Wipe or scrub the wheel, applying light pressure in overlapping passes
- Use a clean dry microfiber towel to remove any residue
- Repeat the process for extra grime or neglected areas
Pro Tip:
Don't forget the backside of the wheel and any stitching—these areas often get the dirtiest. A soft detail brush or compressed air can help remove grime from tight seams.
How Often Should You Clean It?
Once a month is ideal for daily drivers. More often if you use hand lotion, drive with dirty hands, or live in a hot climate.
Related Posts
- How to Clean Plastic Door Panels Without Shine or Streaks
- How to Eliminate Funky Car Smells (Smoke, Mildew, More)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an APC on my steering wheel?
You can, but it may dry or discolor the material. Stick to an interior-safe cleaner like Complete Cabin Cleaner.
What causes the sticky feeling on leather?
Usually a combination of body oils, lotions, and leftover product residue baked in by heat and UV exposure.
Is the Scrub Buddy safe on leather?
Yes. It’s designed for textured plastic, rubber, and sealed leather. Use light pressure and test first on delicate wheels.
Will this fix glossy shine too?
Yes. Proper cleaning will reduce unnatural gloss and return the leather or plastic to a matte OEM finish.
