Dye Transfer is the dyestuff transferred to leather from clothing, newsprint or from hair dyes and fake tans. It is more usually seen on light coloured, protected, leathers but it can occur on any leather, though not as noticeably. Basically the dye has redyed the leather. It is a very common problem.
If noticed early enough it can be successfully removed from most pigment coated leather with a jean and dye transfer remover. This should contain specifically formulated (by leather technologists) products for this problem.
The longer the dye sits in/on the leather the harder it will be to remove.
Using a high quality leather protector lwill help to inhibit dye transfer as the dye will sit on the protector and not on the finish of the leather. This also makes it much easier to clean off.
Owners of pale and off-white leather are recommended to adopt a gentle regular cleaning and protecting regime using good quality maintenance and protection products (not conditioners as these
actually attract more dirt) Please do not use anything containing waxes or oils on your leather as these will not help and polishes may seal the surface and prevent further cleaning.
Please do not use Magic Erasers to clean leather as these are a very fine sand paper and will damage the finish on the leather causing long term problems.
Saddle soap, vinegar and old wives tales should also be avoided as these can damage the finish on the leather which will be expensive to fix
Never use bleach on your leather as this will damage the leather
Hope this helps
Judyb