This article comes from Angi.
How to Protect Leather Couches
When cleaning and protecting this type of upholstery, it’s best to use a gentle touch. Let’s review how to protect your leather furniture like a pro.
1. Maintain a Cleaning Routine
The key to maintaining the look of your leather couch is keeping a cleaning routine. The more consistently you clean your couch, the longer the leather will last without cracking or fading. Daily dusting, vacuuming, and regular conditioning are a few ways you can prolong the lifespan of your leather couch. Add “clean leather couch” to your house cleaning checklist to prioritize this important task.
2. Follow the Label Instructions
Each leather product is different, so begin the cleaning process by reading the care instructions carefully. These instructions can help you understand what materials you should or should not use on the leather in order to maintain its look and feel over time.
Labels can also describe what type of leather was used to make your couch, which can help you determine how best to treat it. Pigmented leather, for example, is the most durable, so it can withstand more wear and tear than aniline leather, which is less resistant to soiling. Of course, you only need to follow this step the first time, but it’s a handy reminder when needed.
3. Dust the Couch
Before deep cleaning your leather furniture, start by dusting the couch with a dry microfiber cloth. That way, you can remove the sitting layer of dust and debris before digging into the nooks and crannies. You can also use a lightly dampened cloth when cleaning protected leather. If you’re committed to the upkeep, it helps to dust on a weekly basis to make sure dust and dander don’t linger for too long.
Dust that isn’t removed can compromise the finish of the leather and attract more dirt and grime. Eliminating dust is especially important if you have pets, since they can leave behind hair and oil that accumulates if not wiped away.
4. Vacuum With the Right Attachment
Not sure when to use the brush attachment on your vacuum? Cleaning your leather couch is the perfect opportunity. To get rid of crumbs and pet dander, vacuum your leather couch with a brush attachment. Consider doing this more frequently if you have pets to clean excess pet hair.
If your couch’s cushions are removable, don’t forget to vacuum the crumbs, dirt, and debris that fall underneath. For couches with reclining functions, pay close attention to the crevice at the bottom since it’s a hidden spot that tends to collect debris over time.
5. Wipe and Dry the Surface
Maintain the sleek look of your leather couch by preserving its shine. You’ll generally want to wipe the surface with a soft cloth lightly dampened with distilled water. You can also use a leather cleaner approved by the furniture manufacturer.
Make sure your cleaning method won’t damage the upholstery the first time you clean your leather furniture. Test the technique out on a small inconspicuous area. If the leather didn’t get damaged or absorb water, proceed with your method. If your furniture absorbs water, use a dry cloth.
6. Remove Stains Immediately
Unfortunately, spills and stains are part of life and may end up on your leather couch. The difference between a permanent stain and a temporary one is how quickly you react to it. Follow these guidelines for removing stains:
- Clean up spills immediately: Blot spills with a clean, dry cloth or towel, then air-dry. Keep in mind that grease stains should disappear over time.
- Air-dry water stains: If you spill something water-based on protected leather, wipe with a clean, lightly dampened cloth and air-dry.
- Treat stubborn stains: For more stubborn stains, moisten a soft cloth or sponge with a combination of mild non-detergent liquid soap and distilled water or a leather cleaner. Then, gently wipe. Wipe again with a clean cloth lightly moistened with plain distilled water. Blot with a dry cloth.
- Avoid harsh cleaners: When treating stains, avoid harsh soaps, cleaning solvents, detergents, or ammonia. Don’t use a lot of water, no matter whether it’s hot or cold water.
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