Over time, leather can accumulate stains, dirt, and grime and develop a dull and worn-out look. Regular cleaning and maintenance can significantly expand the life of your leather items! Leather is a unique material that requires specialised care to maintain its appearance and longevity. While we recommend leaving professional leather cleaning and leather stain removal to the experts at The Leather Doctor, there are safe and effective ways to clean your leather furniture in between professional leather cleaning services.
Tips for Cleaning Leather Properly
Cleaning your leather needs to be done regularly! Your cleaning maintenance in between professional leather cleaning services will extend the life of your leather goods. Leather furniture is an investment and proper care can help preserve its value. Regular cleaning and maintenance not only enhance your furniture’s appearance but can also help prevent damage. These are our professional leather cleaning tips:
- Dust your furniture regularly. Using a soft, dry cloth or a soft brush, remove dust from the surface of your leather furniture. Regular dusting helps prevent build-up of dirt and debris that can scratch or dull your leather.
- Clean Spills Immediately! If a liquid spills on your leather item, blot the area immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth or sponge. Avoid rubbing the area as it can spread the spill and drive it deeper in the leather. If you have existing stains, reach out to your local Leather Doctor for assistance with leather stain removal.
- Avoid Harsh or Abrasive Cleaners. Only use gentle cleaning solutions specifically formulated for leather, like this leather cleaning and conditioning kit. Any alkaline based cleaners or cleaners with harsh chemicals can strip the natural oils of your leather and ruin the appearance. Even for leather stain removal, avoid any harsh cleaners.
- Condition your leather regularly. Leather conditioning keeps your leather supple and prevents it from drying out or cracking. Apply leather conditioner using a soft cloth. Leather goods that are exposed to more sunlight will need conditioning more frequently to maintain their appearance and avoid fading. As there are many different leather types, conditioning your leather goods and furniture should be done as recommended by your leather manufacturer. A professional leather cleaning service will include conditioning of your leather as well.
- Avoid Excessive Water. When cleaning leather furniture, avoid using excessive water or cleaning solutions. Your cloth should only ever be slightly damp when wiping your leather. Wipe the leather surface gently without saturating it.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight. Keep your leather goods in a cool, dry place and position your leather furniture out of direct sunlight when possible. Extended exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and drying out of your leather. If necessary, use curtains or blinds to protect your furniture from prolonged exposure to sunlight.
- Seek Professional Leather Cleaning Help. For stubborn leather stain removal or leather furniture in need of deep cleaning, it’s best to consult professional leather cleaning services. They have the expertise and specialised equipment to handle difficult stains and clean your leather items effectively. Find a leather cleaning professional near you here.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Leather
“What is the best thing to clean my leather furniture with?” We hear this question all the time! Before you start cleaning your leather item, check your manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. Different types of leather may have specific care instructions that you need to follow to avoid damage. If you’re ever unsure how to clean a particular type of leather, it’s best to contact a professional leather cleaning service.
Though it can be tempting to use common household items to DIY clean your leather, you should learn what not to use when cleaning your leather furniture or with leather stain removal. There are many oils, chemicals, and products that will ruin your leather. Avoiding certain items will help prolong the life and appearance of your leather.
Items to Avoid When Cleaning Leather:
- Disinfectant or Baby Wipes
- Any products containing Vinegar
- Any products containing Bleach
- Baking Soda
- Lemon
- Cream of Tartar
- Nail Polish Remover
- Any products containing Alcohol
- Cleaning products that are alkaline based
- Conditioners that are alkaline based
- Windex
- Chlorine
- Hand Sanitiser
- Caustic Soda
- Paint Thinner
- Turpentine
- Salt Water
- Leather Shoe Polish – should only be used as intended on shoes.
- Olive Oil
- Linseed Oil
Conclusion
Following these professional leather cleaning tips will maintain the beauty of your leather goods for a long time to come! Regular cleaning not only removes contaminants like dirt, dust, and oils that accumulate on the leather surface, but also eliminates any odours that can develop from that accumulation, leaving your living space fresh and clean.
When it comes to professional leather cleaning and leather stain removal, there is no substitute for expertise and experience. DIY methods may seem cost-effective initially, but they can lead to irreparable damage or less than desirable outcomes. By investing in professional leather cleaning services and safely maintaining your leather, you are prolonging the life and appearance of your leather items.
So, the next time your leather furniture or possessions need a little tender loving care, consider reaching out to The Leather Doctor, a trusted professional leather cleaning and repair business. Your leather will thank you!
