How to Clean Leather: A Guide for Leather Care
Leather is a timeless material used in any home. Leather known for its durability and multifunction need proper care for its longevity and to maintain its hydrated appearance. Using the wrong technique or harsh care will damage the leather. This guide will walk you through the basics of leather care, ensuring your favorite pieces stay beautiful for years to come.
Here are simple tips for cleaning leather.
Essential Tools for Cleaning Leather:
- Microfiber cloth
For cleaning leather use a soft fabric or microfiber fabric. These fabrics have a soft texture so they will not scratch your leather.
- Mild Soap
Use a very mild soap to clean the leather, just put a little bit in a bowl of water. Mix the soap and water, and use a cloth to clean it. After done cleaning it, use a dry cloth dan do tapping on the leather. Let it dry naturally by air, do not use any heater or drying device for your leather.
- Leather Conditioner
Choose leather conditioner or leather oil as your need and the leather you have.
Make sure to always trial:
- Vacuum
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment on it. The brush will remove dirt from your leather surface.
- Soft Brush
Use a soft brush if you are more detailed and want to clean your leather thoroughly. Woven leather can get dust build up in it’s nooks and crannies, it may be helpful to thoroughly
- Leather Protectant Spray
After the cleaning step is all done, spray some leather protectant spray to avoid moisture.
Cleaning leather needs consistency, when you are consistent with it, your leather will look new for a long time. If you are successful in taking care of it then you will know the result of your effort, and the leather you are taking care of will shine.
Here are Some Quick Leather Cleaning Tips
- Brush the surface of the leather softly with a soft cloth or soft brush, to remove dust.
- Vacuuming will help, but it is optional. Wipe leather will be more effective to clean it. If using a vacuum make sure you are using a brush attachment to it, so it will help to sweep up the dust.
- After brushing, wipe it with a damp cloth followed by patting it with a dry cloth immediately. Do not use hot water for this step, because hot water makes the leather dry. Add mild soap for this step, or you can just use water. Avoid using too much soap. Let it air dry, do not use a heater or any hot source.
- Apply leather conditioner to ensure the leather is not dried out. This helps to moisten the leather and it will have a long lifespan. Avoid using too much conditioner. Make sure you are using the right conditioner for your leather, sample a hidden part of the leather to check for potential stains. You may apply conditioner to your leather for at least 3-6 months to keep it hydrated.
- Spray leather furniture with leather protectant. It helps to keep away the dirt and moisture that may leave stains on your leather furniture.
These are quick tips for cleaning your leather furniture, by doing these you are caring for it and maintaining its lifespan. Doing this routine will keep your leather looking like new and durable for years to come.
Avoid These Cleaning Material for Cleaning Your Leather
- Ammonia
Cleaners that contain ammonia can be really harsh for leather. Because it can remove the natural oil from the leather, drying out the leather and discoloring the leather. Avoid cleaning leather with ammonia.
- Bleach
Bleach will be discoloring your leather for sure. Avoid using bleach as a leather cleaner. This has a highly corrosive and toxic material.
- Alcohol-based cleaners
Alcohol is also harmful to your leather furniture. It will dry the leather because alcohol removes the natural oil on your leather furniture.
- Aceton
A nail colour remover can be too harsh for leather. Avoid using this to clean leather.
Things You Should Never Do to Your Leather and Some Tips For Caring Leather
- Do not get direct sunlight for a long period, it will make the colour fade, dry, and might cause cracking.
- Sharp objects need to be kept away from your leather, it will break, tear, and scratch the leather. This includes pets scratching your leather.
- Neglect the piece without any treatment, it will damage over time. Proper maintenance will keep your piece of leather in good condition for a long time.
- Any spill should be removed immediately, or it will leave a stain on your leather
Taking good care of leather is essential for maintaining its lifespan, durability, and beauty. Your leather will stay in great shape for many years if you take care of it when cleaning, conditioning, preserving, and storing. Your leather will continue to look excellent and function well with proper care. Leather is more than just a stylish addition to your home—it's an investment in long-lasting comfort and elegance. With its timeless appeal and unmatched durability, properly cared-for leather furniture will only get better with age, offering years of luxury and reliability.
Elevate your living space with the sophistication and warmth that only genuine leather can provide, and enjoy the benefits of this premium material for years to come. Invest in high-quality leather furniture only in Larkwood Furniture.
Check Larkwood’s Leather furniture options:
French Modernist Armchair Leather
Full-Grain Leather Woven Counter Stool
