[rwest]

Hey all - My movers dropped off some furnishings that were in storage. One was a not-inexpensive bed and large headboard covered in light-colored alcantara. I had originally paid to have it completely "saran-wrapped" to prevent greasy fingerprints but somewhere along the line it ended up being dragged along a corner and now looks like it was dipped in used motor oil. The movers' insurance is covering it but I figure I have one crack at lifting the stains as opposed to driving them further into the covering. If you have experience with, or any suggestions for, the top such person in town who will come to your home please let me know...TIA!

[m73m95]

I know *real* (There are a LOT of imitations out there) alcantara can be cleaned with mild soap and water. It is a synthetic fabric, so water doesn't hurt it (Don't drench it though). If it is in fact an oil of some kind, a pumice free hand cleaner (From the autoparts store) should get it out. Then rinse with a wet sponge. I've used this method to clean greasy fingerprints out of alcantara car interiors. I would test in an inconspicuous spot beforehand, just to be safe

If you're not comfortable doing it yourself, I would call a mobile car detailer. Alcantara is used a lot in high end car interiors. They would be used to cleaning it, even though it's not part of a car.

[rwest]

^ Thanks for the advice. I think I need somebody to do it professionally - it keeps the chain of custody outside of my hands - but the auto detailer approach is a great idea. It's a Philippe Starck bed and considering the slight abrasion (unfortunately on the most visible corner) and possible need to re-cover, I shudder to think what the cost might be seeing as how everything will have to be recovered including the headboard for a proper color match.