While we spend a lot of time and effort attempting to keep towels and bedding looking new, leather is one of those fabrics that improve with age. Even if you want a well-worn couch or chair with a gorgeous patina, your leather furniture must be cleaned to keep it in good condition. After all, you want the artwork to appear well-loved rather than ignored. You can keep your leather couch clean with a few pantry items and leather conditioner.
You’ll need to undertake two types of cleaning to keep your leather couch looking good. These are some of the most excellent options for easy maintenance and deep cleaning when stains eventually occur—but not all colors are made equal, so remember to use the right products. We’ve broken down the tips and methods, so you’ll be ready when the inevitable red wine spill occurs.
How Often Should a Leather Couch Be Cleaned?
Cleaning your leather couch should be part of your routine to keep it looking good. Dry-dust your couch with a microfiber cloth once a week to remove built-up dust and crumbs. You can also do this with the soft bristle extension of your vacuum, which you can incorporate into your vacuuming routine.
When it comes to stains, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get a little more serious. Consider a deeper clean once a month: Finish with a leather cream conditioner after wiping it down with a damp wipe. The moist wipe-down provides more thorough regular cleaning, and conditioning aids in the prevention of cracks and discoloration.
What You’ll Need
- a fresh washcloth or a microfiber towel
- Dish detergent
- Warm water
- Conditioner for leather
- Optional: baking soda
- (Optional) rubbing alcohol
- (Optional) ice
Cleaning a Leather Couch
A few simple products can keep your leather couch in good condition with weekly cleanings. To begin, get a clean washcloth or microfiber towel, dish soap, and the leather conditioner you choose.
Step 1: Clean the Couch
While professional leather wipes are available in many stores, all you need to prepare your own is a clean towel and warm soapy water. Clean all couch surfaces with a moist towel and a few drops of dish soap, including the cushions, sides, armrests, and back.
Step 2: Thoroughly dry
After wiping down all surfaces, thoroughly dry the couch with a new washcloth or microfiber towel to ensure no leftover water before conditioning.
Step 3: Preparing the Leather
Read the manufacturer’s instructions for your sofa to find out which conditioners are appropriate for the sort of leather you have. Once you’ve gathered your leather conditioner of choice, apply it to all leather surfaces: Genuine leather is, of course, created from cow skin, and this step is analogous to applying lotion to our skin to keep it moisturized.
If you have a warranty on your leather couch, using the wrong sort of leather conditioner may nullify it: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep all receipts for the products you use.
How to Remove Common Stains
Because leather is so absorbent and cannot be washed, ensure that any stain treatments make things better rather than worse. Most stains, thankfully, can be cleaned with basic home materials.
Step 1: Begin with Soap
Most stains, such as spilled coffee or ice cream, can be removed with a small amount of dish soap. Add a small amount of water to a cloth with soapy, warm water and apply it to the affected region.
Step 2: Scrub in Circular Motions
We have the same advice for most stains:
- Rub in small circles to remove the stain.
- Avoid rubbing back and forth in a line since it generates extra wear and tear.
- Wipe down the area in loops, careful not to use too much water, then dry it with a clean towel.
How to Get Rid of Grease Stains
There are a few ways to identify if you have a grease stain. First, if you dropped your pepperoni pizza on its side, you won’t have to guess; you’ll know. However, if a mysterious stain persists and you have tried wiping it with a soapy, damp cloth and there is a slimy feel when touched, it could be oil.
Step 1: Sift Baking Soda
To get rid of it, Sprinkle a pinch of baking soda on the stain and leave it for a few hours to absorb the oil.
Step 2: Remove Stains
Remove the baking soda with a dry, gentle cloth after setting it into the stain. Wipe off the surface again with a moist towel to remove any excess baking soda.
How to Get Rid of Ink Stains
Ink stains can be alarming initially, but they can generally be removed with standard household cleaning supplies.
Step 1: Get the Rubbing Alcohol.
Add rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball and gently dab at the stain until it disappears. Make sure to pat rather than rub, as rubbing might spread the ink.
2nd Step: Pat Dry
After removing the stain, gently massage the area dry with a clean washcloth. If ink stains remain visible after drying, repeat the procedure.
How to Get Rid of Wax or Gum
Don’t be alarmed if wax, gum, or anything else sticky gets on your leather furniture. Instead of blotting or wiping it out, harden the substance to remove it.
Step 1: Allow the Area to Cool
Put some ice cubes in a plastic sandwich bag against the affected area. Wait as long as possible for the wax or gum to solidify before removing it.
Step 2: Scrape Away Gently
Once it has solidified, you can remove the particles using your fingernails or a spoon. A knife or anything with a sharp edge is not recommended, as this may scratch or tear the leather.
Step 3: If Necessary, Consult the Manufacturer
Finally, monitor your progress; if anything isn’t working, slow down and reassess. When in doubt, consult a manual or, if feasible, contact the manufacturer. Some damage, particularly acute leather damage (in the form of scratches or huge stains), may necessitate the aid of a specialist.