Leather furniture brings an atmosphere of upscale comfort to any room, but maintaining that elegance requires consistent care. To keep your leather furniture looking its best, Creative Colors International (CCI) has seven essential steps to follow on how to care for leather furniture.
1. Dust and Clean Regularly
Dust and dirt can accumulate on leather, dulling its appearance over time. Americans spend more than 90% of their day indoors, yet many don’t keep dust at bay. According to the American Lung Association, even though 84% of millennials believe a clean home plays “a central role in their everyday wellness,” only 38% think dusting is a priority.
To prevent your leather products from losing their shine, it’s time to step up your dusting routine. Dust your leather furniture weekly with a soft, dry cloth or a microfiber duster. Banishing dust eliminates surface dirt from accumulating, which can cause scratches and stains on leather products. For a deeper clean, use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down the surface every month. Dry the leather thoroughly with a clean cloth to avoid excess moisture.
2. Condition Consistently
Leather needs moisture to stay soft and flexible, just like your skin. Condition your leather furniture every three to six months with a high-quality leather conditioner. Our leather conditioner keeps your leather from cracking and fading. Apply a small amount of conditioner to a soft cloth and rub it into the leather in circular motions to ensure even coverage.
3. Use Leather Protectors
To protect your leather furniture from spills and stains, consider using leather protectors designed to create a barrier on the surface. These products can help repel liquids and protect against dirt and grime. Before applying a protector, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.
4. Address Spills and Stains Quickly
If a spill happens, act quickly to prevent staining. Blot up the liquid with a dry cloth, but don't rub or press too hard, as this can push the liquid deeper into the leather. For stains, apply a mild leather cleaner to a soft cloth and gently dab the area until the stain lifts. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing, which can damage the leather's surface. If an accident does occur, clean it immediately to prevent permanent stains.
5. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Ultraviolet rays can fade and dry out leather, leading to cracks and discoloration. To protect your furniture, position it away from direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to control the light entering the room. If your leather couch is near a window, consider applying UV-protective film to reduce the risk of sun damage. It’s also a good rule of thumb to rotate the furniture in your room several times a year to prevent sun exposure in one spot.
6. Protect From Pets and Kids
Pets and young children are adorable, but their enthusiastic attitudes can cause extra wear and tear on your leather furniture. Use throws or slipcovers in high-traffic areas to protect the leather from scratches and spills. Keep pet claws trimmed and encourage pets to stay off the furniture.
7. Schedule Professional Maintenance Annually
Even with proper care, leather furniture benefits from professional maintenance. Schedule an annual visit from a leather care expert to deep clean, condition, and inspect your furniture for any signs of damage. Professionals can also repair small tears, scratches, or other issues before they become significant problems. This yearly checkup helps maintain your leather's appearance and extends its lifespan.
CCI’s leather cleaning service providers are the mobile leaders in leather and vinyl repair. In their mobile vans, our service technicians have all the tools they need to return the furniture at your home or business to like-new condition. We can fix rips, tears, burns, scratches, and fading to improve the appearance of your leather products. Whether you need to make a repair or schedule yearly maintenance, CCI can get the job done right the first time.
Choose the Best!
A consistent care routine can keep your leather in tip-top shape, but learning how to care for leather furniture starts at the time of purchase. We recommend investing in high-quality pieces designed to withstand normal wear and tear. Low-quality leather or synthetic leather may seem like a budget-friendly choice, but it’s not a sound investment for the long haul.
One of the biggest problems with these materials is their lack of durability. Low-quality leather is prone to cracking, peeling, and tearing, especially in high-traffic areas like couches or car interiors. Similarly, synthetic leather — often made from PVC or polyurethane — can degrade rapidly when it’s exposed to heat, sunlight, or moisture. You may need to replace low-quality leather products sooner, leading to additional costs.
Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather you can buy. It is made from the top layer of the hide, retaining the natural grain and texture. This type of leather is durable, ages beautifully, and develops a rich patina over time. It is ideal for high-end furniture, premium leather goods, and durable accessories. Full-grain leather resists wear and tear, making it a popular choice for items that see frequent use.
CCI Can Fix That!
Request a quote to connect with one of CCI’s locally owned and operated restoration shops. Our skilled technicians are experts in leather restoration and will ensure your leather furniture, car seats, or other leather items are restored to their best condition.
