Cleaning leather couches might seem to be a challenging chore, especially if you don’t want to ruin their looks.
However, regular cleaning and care are essential. Don’t worry though, we’ve put down a few simple steps to help you out.
Gather cleaning supplies
Before you start cleaning your leather couch, make sure you have all the necessary supplies ready:
- Mild leather cleaner: Look for a cleaner specifically made for leather furniture. Stay away from strong chemicals or common household cleaners since they can harm the leather.
- Soft, lint-free cloths or microfiber towels: You’ll use these for applying and wiping off the cleaner.
- Leather conditioner: A good conditioner helps keep the leather moisturized and protected, preventing it from drying out and developing cracks.
- A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment: Vacuuming will help remove loose dirt and crumbs from your couch.
- Distilled water: You might need this to dilute the leather cleaner if necessary.
Remove surface dust and dirt
Begin by gently vacuuming your leather couch using the soft brush attachment. This will help get rid of any loose dirt, dust, or crumbs on the surface and in the crevices.
Pay extra attention to the seams and folds where dirt tends to accumulate. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar since it could scratch the leather.
Test any cleaners
Before applying any cleaner to your leather couch, it’s crucial to do a patch test in a hidden spot to make sure it won’t cause any unexpected effects like discoloration or damage.
Apply a small amount of leather cleaner to an inconspicuous area and wait for a few minutes to see how the leather reacts.
If there are no adverse effects, you can proceed with cleaning the entire couch.
Clean the Couch
Dampen a soft cloth or microfiber towel with the leather cleaner. Make sure it’s not too wet; a slightly damp cloth is sufficient.
Gently wipe down the entire surface of the couch, focusing on any stains or soiled areas. Use gentle, circular motions, and avoid scrubbing too hard.
If the leather cleaner’s label suggests dilution, follow the instructions and mix it with distilled water as directed.
Condition and Protect
After cleaning, it’s crucial to condition and protect your leather couch to keep it soft, supple, and resistant to future damage.
Apply a leather conditioner following the product’s instructions. Typically, you’ll want to apply a small amount to a clean cloth and then rub it onto the leather in a circular motion.
Let the conditioner soak into the leather for the recommended duration. This will help moisturize the leather and maintain its natural shine.
Cleaning leather couches may require some effort, but it’s well worth it to maintain the elegance and coziness they bring to your home.
Additionally, you can always hire the services of a cleaning company if you want to leave the bulk of your cleaning chores to a professional.