Leather Sofa Care

Cleaning

• You should clean a leather sofa on a regular basis in order to prevent dirt and other debris from damaging its surface. You should always vacuum the surface of your sofa and under the cushions first to remove dirt, food crumbs and other debris. After removing the loose debris, wipe the leather down with a leather safe cleaner and a lint-free cloth to remove smudges and any skin oils that have accumulated on its surface. You should always spot test any new leather cleaners on an inconspicuous section of your sofa before attempting to clean a large area.

Conditioning

• Conditioning your leather sofa will keep it soft and pliable, and prevent it from cracking as it ages. Applying conditioner to your leather sofa will also help retain its natural sheen. You should purchase a conditioning product made especially for leather furniture and apply it with a lint-free cloth. Work in small sections and ensure that the leather is absorbing the conditioner as you progress. You should only condition your leather sofa every six months, as overconditioning may cause the leather to soften too much and compromise its durability.

Stain Prevention

• Any spills should be soaked up from the surface of your leather sofa with paper towels immediately. If the product you spilled has a greasy property, apply a layer of cornstarch over the spill and allow it to absorb the liquid. Wipe away the cornstarch after 20 to 30 minutes, making sure you avoid rubbing it into the leather. After you have removed any spills, clean the area with a leather safe cleaner. Allow the area to dry completely and then condition the affected area.

Environment

• Take caution when positioning your sofa in your home. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leather to fade and may cause it to dry and crack over time. It is also a good idea to keep it away from any furnace vents or windows. Extreme changes in temperature can cause the leather on a sofa to expand and contract quickly and lead to cracks in its surface.