How to Clean & Protect Leather

Keep leather looking new.

Whether you have leather upholstery, shoes or clothing, proper cleaning is vital to keep it looking its best. Leather may be matte or shiny, depending on how it was finished. Both types are porous so dirt can permanently work its way into the leather, making it difficult to clean or leaving behind stains. Regular cleanings paired with proper protection helps prevent permanent stains and dirt from ruining your leather pieces.

Things You'll Need

• Cloths
• Saddle or castile soap
• Leather polish
• Leather protectant spray

Instructions

Cleaning Leather

1. Dust leather furniture with a dry cloth regularly so that dirt isn't left on the surface to work its way into the fibers. Wipe leather clothing and accessories with a barely dampened cloth after each use to remove any dust or dirt particles.

2. Spread saddle or castile soap onto the leather if it requires a deep cleaning. Spread a thin coat over the leather, applying it only to the soiled areas.

3. Moisten a cloth with clear water until it's just barely damp. Rinse away the soap from the leather with the moistened cloth, rinsing and wringing out the cloth as necessary.

4. Wipe the leather dry with a dry cloth. This helps prevent mildew.

Protecting Leather

1. Rub a leather dressing or polish into the item if the leather appears or feels dry, has lost its flexibility or is showing the first signs of cracks. Apply the polish with your fingertips in small amounts and rub it into the leather with your hands. Apply leather shoe polishes with the enclosed applicator.

2. Wipe the excess polish off the leather with a clean cloth. Avoid getting polish on nearby woodwork, jacket linings or other non-leather parts of the piece.

3. Spray the leather with a leather protectant spray, following the package application instructions.

Tips & Warnings

• Leather soaps, polishes and protectants are available where leather items or cleaning supplies are sold. Shoe stores also may have a range of leather care products.

• Always check the care tag before cleaning or treating leather, if it is available.

• Soft leather items, such as suede, should be cleaned only by wiping with a dry cloth or by a professional cleaner.

References

• Michigan State University Extension: Cleaning Leather Upholstered Furniture
• University of Missouri Extension: Cleaning May Restore Furniture