How to clean leather furniture?
Leather furniture is an excellent investment for your home. As a result, it requires proper care to maintain its appearance and longevity. As with all furniture, regular cleaning is necessary to keep it looking its best. However, cleaning leather furniture requires special care to avoid damaging the delicate material. In this blog, we will give you tips and tricks on how to clean your leather furniture, so that it stays in perfect condition for a long time to come.
Preparation
Before you start cleaning your leather furniture, you will need to make a few preparations. Gather all the necessary supplies you will need. These include a soft bristle brush, microfibre cloth, leather cleaner and leather conditioner. These last two products should be chosen with care. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s recommendations for their use. They must be specially designed for cleaning leather furniture to avoid damaging the material.
Start by using the soft bristle brush to gently remove dust and debris from the furniture surface. Be careful not to scratch the leather surface. Use a light touch and work in small sections, brushing in a circular motion. Next, use a clean, damp microfibre cloth to wipe the leather and remove any dirt or stains. Once you have done this, you are ready to start cleaning.
Clean the Leather Furniture After Testing the Cleaner
Before applying the cleaner to the whole piece of furniture, it is important to test it in an inconspicuous area to make sure it will not cause any damage. Apply a small amount of cleaner to a hidden area and wait a few minutes to see if any discolouration or damage occurs. Remember that the cleaner must be suitable for the leather, so choose one with a neutral pH.
Once you have tested the cleaner, it is time to clean the furniture. Apply a small amount of cleaner to a microfibre cloth and gently rub the leather in circular motions. Work the product in rather than leaving it on the surface. Be sure to work in small sections and avoid applying too much pressure. Rinse the cloth frequently to avoid spreading dirt. If it becomes too dirty, consider changing it.
If you have a stubborn stain on your leather furniture, you may need to use a specialized cleaner to remove it. For example, ink stains can be removed with a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water. Apply the mixture to a cloth and gently rub the stain. For oil-based stains, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water, applied in the same way. Here again, it is essential to test your mixture on a hidden part of your furniture.
After Cleaning Care
After cleaning, it is important to condition the leather to keep it soft and supple. Apply a small amount of conditioner to a clean microfibre cloth and rub the leather in circular motions. Be sure to work in small sections and avoid applying too much pressure.
Once you have applied the conditioner, it is important to let your furniture dry completely before using it. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat sources, as the leather may dry out and crack. This is an important step in the cleaning process and should not be rushed. If you use your furniture before it is completely dry, the leather may warp.
Cleaning leather furniture requires special care to avoid damaging the delicate material. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can keep your leather furniture in perfect condition for years to come. However, it is important to note that some stains or damage may require professional cleaning. If you do not know how to clean your leather furniture, or if you have any doubts, do not hesitate to call in the professionals for a thorough cleaning and some sound advice.
