A leather sofa is a distinctive piece of furniture that can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. Leather typically needs a little more attention than fabric upholstery, although it is easy to maintain over the years. There are several ways to keep a leather sofa in prime condition for a very long time. Here’s how you can keep your leather sofa looking great, even years after you bought it.
Keep the Sofa Away from Sun and Heat Sources
Sun and heat are leather’s two worst enemies. Exposure to heat will start to break down any protective coating on the sofa’s surface. It will also start to dry out the leather so that it becomes brittle. This can cause the leather to crack. Direct sunlight can also cause the leather to fade. Leather sofas should be kept out of direct sun and far away from vents, radiators, fireplaces and other heat sources.
Regularly Wipe Down or Vacuum the Sofa
Wiping down or vacuuming a leather sofa will prevent several cleanliness issues and keep it in good condition. If not properly cared for, leather can accumulate small amounts of dust. This can damage the sofa, and the dust can become hard to remove over time. The key is to wipe down the sofa with a dry cloth every day or few days depending on use. If you suspect there are larger pieces of debris in the sofa, a vacuum is the best way to remove them.
Handle Spills Right Away
Anything that spills on the leather sofa needs to be cleaned up right away. Any type of liquid can harm the leather if it sits on the sofa for too long. The best way to handle spills is to blot them with a dry cloth. A slightly damp cloth can be used for sticky or tough spills. Never use sprays or wet rags to clean up spills on a leather sofa – this will only cause further damage.
Apply Leather Conditioner 1-2 Times Per Year
Every leather sofa needs to have a special leather conditioner applied to the surface. The conditioner works to keep the leather moist, supple and attractive. It does not take long to apply the conditioner. The leather should be conditioned every six months to a year, depending on how often the sofa is used. Never skip a conditioning; it may cause the leather to dry out.
Never Use Detergents or Harsh Cleaners
The kinds of detergents, harsh cleaners and sprays that are used on other pieces of furniture should never be used on a leather sofa. These chemicals and soaps can destroy the leather’s smooth appearance. Detergents can dry out the leather and may even leave residues that only professional furniture cleaners can remove. Dry cloths, slightly damp cloths and very mild natural soaps are all that should ever be used on a leather sofa.