How to Clean Leather Furniture: Maintain Softness and Shine

Posted by Go Cleaners on May 27, 2024 in How To:

Leather furniture adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any room, but it requires proper care to maintain its softness, shine, and durability. With the right cleaning and maintenance routine, you can keep your leather furniture looking beautiful for years to come. Here’s a comprehensive guide from Go Cleaners London on how to clean leather furniture and preserve its quality.

https://gocleanerslondon.co.uk/upholstery-cleaning/

In this guide:

1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have the following supplies:

Soft microfiber cloths
Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment
Distilled water
Mild soap (such as baby soap or a gentle liquid dish soap)
White vinegar
Leather conditioner
Spray bottle
Soft-bristled brush
Protective gloves

2. Regular Dusting and Vacuuming

Dust and dirt can accumulate on your leather furniture, leading to abrasion and damage.

Dust with a soft cloth: Use a soft microfiber cloth to dust your leather furniture regularly. This helps to remove surface dirt and prevent it from settling into the leather.
Vacuum with a brush attachment: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove dust and debris from crevices and seams. Be careful not to scratch the leather surface.

3. Spot Cleaning for Spills and Stains

Address spills and stains promptly to prevent permanent damage.

Blot, don’t rub: If you spill something on your leather furniture, blot it immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Rubbing can spread the spill and push it deeper into the leather.
Mild soap solution: Mix a solution of mild soap and distilled water. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe the stained area. Avoid using too much water, as excess moisture can damage leather.
Rinse and dry: Dampen another cloth with distilled water and wipe away any soap residue. Dry the area with a clean, dry cloth.

4. Deep Cleaning the Leather

For a more thorough clean, follow these steps:

Prepare a cleaning solution: Mix equal parts distilled water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can use a commercial leather cleaner.
Test on a small area: Before applying the solution to the entire piece, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the leather.
Clean the surface: Lightly spray the cleaning solution onto a soft cloth, not directly onto the leather. Wipe the leather in gentle, circular motions, working in small sections.
Remove residue: Dampen another cloth with distilled water and wipe down the cleaned areas to remove any residue from the cleaning solution.
Dry thoroughly: Use a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture and let the leather air dry completely.

5. Condition the Leather

Conditioning leather is crucial for maintaining its softness and preventing cracks.

Apply leather conditioner: Choose a high-quality leather conditioner suitable for your furniture type. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently rub it into the leather in circular motions.
Allow absorption: Let the conditioner sit on the leather for the recommended time (usually 10-20 minutes) to allow it to penetrate and moisturize the material.
Buff with a clean cloth: After the conditioner has been absorbed, buff the leather with a clean, dry cloth to restore its shine and remove any excess product.

6. Avoid Harsh Cleaners and Tools

To protect your leather furniture, avoid the following:

Harsh chemicals: Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or any harsh chemicals that can damage the leather.
Abrasive tools: Do not use scrubbing brushes, scouring pads, or any abrasive tools that can scratch the surface.
Excess water: Too much water can cause leather to become stiff and damaged.

7. Regular Maintenance Tips

Keep your leather furniture looking its best with these regular maintenance tips:

Keep away from direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause leather to fade and dry out. Position your furniture away from direct sunlight.
Maintain humidity levels: Extreme humidity levels can damage leather. Use a humidifier in dry climates and a dehumidifier in humid environments.
Avoid sharp objects: Keep pets’ claws trimmed and avoid placing sharp objects on the furniture to prevent scratches.
Rotate cushions: Rotate and fluff cushions regularly to ensure even wear and maintain their shape.

Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for preserving the softness and shine of your leather furniture. By following these steps, you can keep your leather pieces looking luxurious and extend their lifespan. For professional leather furniture cleaning services in London, trust Go Cleaners London. Our expert team uses safe and effective techniques to care for your leather furniture.

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