How to Clean Leather Couches

Leather is one of the most durable upholstery fabrics on the market. Leather furniture is classy and warm in any room. While it holds up well to wear, leather can easily stain and must be kept clean. Many people feel that cleaning a leather couch is difficult and time-consuming. But if you have the right products and tools, it just becomes a chore that must be performed regularly.

Instructions

1. Dust your leather couch with a feather duster or clean dry cloth on a regular basis. Crumbs or pieces of food and dirt can get rubbed into the leather, creating unsightly scratches.

2. Purchase a good leather cleaner and rub it into the couch in even circular motions. Make sure the couch is free of anything that could scratch it while you clean.

3. Follow with a leather condition that works much like a car wax. Polish the couch with the conditioner, let it dry and buff to a clean shone.

4. Wipe spills as soon as they happen. Use a damp cloth to blot spills. Then blot dry very lightly with another clean cloth.

5. Try homemade leather cleaning tips. Some people recommend inexpensive leather cleaning processes, like baking soda or salt. If you experiment, first try it on a small corner in the back of the couch, in case your particular brand of leather does not react well to the treatment.

6. Stick to the recommended manufacturer's cleaner. Many leather furniture companies produce and sell their own brand of cleaner and conditioner. To stay safe and guarantee a positive outcome to your cleaning job, use proven cleaning products that are designed to work best with your furniture.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use a hairdryer or other electrical dryer on a leather sofa.

• Do not use saddle soap on a leather couch, as it is too harsh for furniture.

• Do not let spills or water to dry; they can penetrate the dye in the leather and leave a spot.