How to Clean Old Leather Furniture

Basic Cleaning

• 1

  Vacuum the furniture with a soft brush attachment. Leather scratches easily so avoid scraping too hard. Vacuum the couch thoroughly to remove any dirt and debris by removing the cushions and vacuuming underneath.

• 2

  Make a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts linseed oil and wipe it onto the leather in a circular motion with a soft, clean white cloth. Cover the furniture completely. The furniture should be slightly damp, not soaked.

• 3

  Allow the solution to sit on the furniture overnight.

• 4

  Buff the shine back on the furniture by wiping it with a soft, dry clean cloth.

Cleaning Mildew and Mold

• 5

  Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle.

• 6

  Spray the solution on the mold or mildew on the leather.

• 7

  Allow the solution to air dry. It may help to place a fan near the furniture to speed the process along.

Cleaning Other Stains

• 8

  Scrub the stained area gently with white toothpaste and a soft clean cloth. Toothpaste will remove almost any stain on leather.

• 9

  Dab rubbing alcohol onto an ink stain and dry with a hair dryer set on the lowest setting. This works wonders on ink stains.

• 10

  Spray aerosol hairspray onto a newsprint stain and wipe it away with a soft, clean white cloth.