How to Determine Type of Dye Used on Leather Furniture

Leather furniture provides that elegant yet natural look to any room in the house. Furniture made with leather requires special care. In order to be able to properly clean and maintain it you will need to determine what type of dye was used on your leather furniture. Leather dyers either treat leather with aniline dye or apply a pigmented coating. Finding out which dye was used is an easy process.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Find a spot on your furniture that is not easily seen such as under a cushion or on a part of the furniture that faces the wall.

2. Place a small drop of water on this spot.

3. Wait for a few seconds and then check the test area to see how the leather has responded to the water.

4. See if the water soaks in. If the water does soak in that means the leather on the furniture is aniline dyed.

5. Notice if the water does not soak in. If the water doesn't soak in that means the leather on the furniture is pigmented.

6. Properly care for the leather. Now that you have determined the type of dye that is used on your leather furniture you will be able to properly care for and maintain it.

Tips & Warnings

• Using an eyedropper is a useful way to apply the water.
• When it comes to leather furniture, the faster you can get to a soiled area the better.
• If you have determined that the type of dye used on your leather furniture is aniline, be aware that means it's extra vulnerable to stains and wear and tear.

[Judyb]

on 9/4/2009 For an easy to follow guide to the type of leather you have see here:
http://www.lttsolutions.net/whattypeofleather.asp

[Judyb]

on 12/12/2007 Using a good leather protector will inhibit dirt and oils from being absorbed into the leather and make it easier to keep clean