How to Properly Clean Leather Furniture

Warning: Always check the manufacturer's label for recommended cleaning instructions and test cleaning procedures in inconspicuous areas before cleaning the primary area.

Leather is one of the most common and durable upholstery materials used when manufacturing furniture. Regular maintenance and care helps protect your furniture and keeps it looking its best for years to come.

The first step is prevention. To avoid fading, never place leather furniture in direct sunlight. In extreme cases, this can also cause the leather to dry out and crack. Also, avoid close contact with heating or cooling vents as this also leads to the same conditions. Regular dusting and vacuuming is essential for extending the life of your furniture.

There are many high quality commercial products on the market for cleaning and oiling your leather. It's beyond the scope of this article to review each of these products and it comes down to personal choice anyway. So, when choosing these products, you should visit your local leather shop for expert opinions about each of these cleansers and they can usually provide samples for you to try on your leather products.

For immediate and common accidents, the following guidelines can help you in a jam. Remember however; if in doubt contact a professional cleaning service so that you don't damage your furniture.

If you notice mold or mildew, mix a solution of half rubbing alcohol and half water. Spray on a damp lint free cloth and wipe with a smooth circular motion. A little goes a long way. Check the areas again in a few days to see if any mold or mildew has returned. If so, you may need to investigate why this is happening in the first place.

If you notice a dark stain, it is probably from an organic source: food, perspiration, etc... Try mixing a water and lemon juice solution, wipe down the stain and come back in about 10 minutes. Repeat several times until the stain disappears.

Ink stains usually require the help of a professional if the area covers more than a few light pen marks. To try yourself, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol and gently cover the area repeatedly until the marks disappear. Several tries may be necessary to see results.

Water stains can be removed by applying mayonnaise and letting it sit for a few hours. Afterward, wipe it dry with a soft cloth.

Suede and patient leather are much more difficult and we recommend that you consult a professional for cleaning these items.