Leather furniture is a great addition to many room designs. However, it does require some extra care to keep it looking good.
Follow this guide and you can keep your leather furniture looking new for years to come! Just be sure to check with your retailer for specific instructions.
Dust It Regularly
Leather is a naturally breathable material, but it needs regular care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Dust your leather furniture weekly, and give it a more thorough cleaning monthly to remove any excess dirt, pet hair, or other debris.
When you’re dusting your leather furniture, make sure to use a lint-free cloth that is slightly damp with distilled water or a mild liquid soap solution. This will ensure that the dirt does not get absorbed into the fabric, which can damage it.
Using excessive amounts of water can also lead to staining and other damage, so test it on an inconspicuous spot first.
Many furniture manufacturers provide specific instructions on how to care for and maintain their leather, so save them to refer to when you’re faced with a tough stain or spill. It’s also a good idea to follow any instructions provided by the manufacturer when it comes to general upkeep, as well.
Vacuum It Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to keep your leather furniture looking good is to vacuum it regularly. This will remove dust and crumbs that can build up and make your leather look dull and drab over time.
The best way to do this is with a vacuum cleaner equipped with a brush attachment. Use this to clean between the cushions and get into the nooks and crannies as well.
You should be able to find a good vacuum for leather at your local hardware store or home improvement store, though you may have to shop around a bit to find the perfect one for you.
How often you should vacuum your leather sofa or chair will depend on how much you use it and what your lifestyle is like. However, a good rule of thumb is to dust or vacuum your leather furniture at least once every six weeks.
Apply a Leather Conditioner
A good leather conditioner can make a huge difference in the look and feel of your furniture. It will not only help it to be more supple, but it will also keep it looking new and fresh for longer.
In addition to regular cleaning, conditioning is another important part of caring for your leather furniture. It will allow the natural oils in your leather to soak up and replenish them, which will prevent it from drying out and cracking.
Generally, most people recommend conditioning their leather three or four times a year. But how often you should condition will depend on the type of leather your sofa or chair is made from, and how much it gets used.
Clean Spills Quickly
Accidental spills on leather furniture are stressful, but most messes won’t result in permanent stains if you act fast. This is because a stain can only be removed by treating it promptly and effectively before it has time to dry.
A quick clean up with a soft cloth and a little soap (or a solution of water and vinegar) will often work wonders on light stains or dirt. For more serious stains, try a strong cleaner like a solution of equal parts olive oil and vinegar or a mixture of non-gel toothpaste and water.
Dark stains may need to be treated with a mix of lemon juice and cream of tartar. This paste can be applied to the stain and left to set for about 10 minutes before scrubbing away. Glue stains can be easily removed using a specialist glue remover or degreaser.
