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Leather Care
Leather furniture in the home looks elegant, classic, and timeless. But how do you best look after the leather so that the furniture stays looking great for as long as possible? Read on to find out.
Why is it Important to Care for Leather?
Leather care is important as, if it is not cared for correctly, leather will age and stop looking its best. Caring for your leather will also protect against stains.
It is helpful to think of leather much in the same way as you would think about your skin – regular cleaning and moisturising is necessary to keep it looking its best. Cleaning is necessary as dirt and debris can act as an abrasive on leather. Body oils can oxidise and change the colour of the leather and food oils can permanently bond with the leather unless food spills are cleaned up immediately. Moisturising is necessary to keep the leather smooth and supple.
General Leather Care Tips
Here are some great tips to help you get the most out of your leather furniture:
- Keep the furniture out of direct sunlight. This will prevent the leather from fading or cracking.
- Avoid placing the furniture too close to a heater or air conditioner. This will dry it out and may distort the material or finish.
- Regularly rotate the cushions for even wear if possible.
- Vacuum the leather regularly with a soft upholstery attachment.
- Wipe the leather with a soft, clean, damp cloth weekly.
- Every six to twelve months, use a good quality leather conditioner.
How to Clean Leather
When cleaning leather, always test your chosen method in an inconspicuous spot to ensure that the finish is not being damaged. For minor marks and spills, immediately wipe up the excess liquid with a clean cloth or sponge. If necessary, use a damp, soft cloth (moistened with clean lukewarm water) and let the leather air dry. Never use soap or soak the stain with water as this can cause more damage than the original stain. Also, do not use cleaning agents, furniture polish, oils, varnish, abrasive cleaners, detergents, or ammonia. For oil, grease, or butter stains, wipe off the excess with a clean cloth. Nothing more is required as the spot will dissipate into the leather. For persistent stains, call in the help of a professional leather specialist. For minor scratches, use a chamois or clean fingers to gently buff the scratch.
Conditioning the Leather
To keep the leather looking its best, as well as cleaning it you also need to condition it. This will help to maintain its suppleness. Use products that have been approved by the leather manufacturer. Leather care and conditioning kits are available.
There are natural products available as well that can soften and protect the leather. These are made from blends of natural oils such as emu oil, lanolin, and orange oil, as well as waxes that are well suited to leather. These natural products do not contain cheap fillers so they are great for feeding the leather.
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