How to Clean and Care for Your Leather Furniture
Leather furniture is an investment that can elevate the look and feel of any room. Its rich texture, timeless appeal, and durability make it a popular choice for sofas, armchairs, and other furniture pieces. However, as with any investment, leather requires regular care and attention to keep it looking its best and to extend its lifespan.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cleaning and caring for your leather furniture, ensuring it remains as beautiful and functional as the day you brought it home.
1. Understanding Your Leather Furniture
Before you begin cleaning, it’s important to understand the type of leather your furniture is made from, as this will influence the cleaning method and products you use. Leather furniture typically falls into two main categories: aniline leather and protected (or pigmented) leather.
- Aniline Leather: This type of leather is dyed using soluble dyes, which gives it a soft, natural look. It’s more susceptible to staining and fading, so it requires gentler cleaning methods.
- Protected Leather: This leather has a protective coating that makes it more resistant to stains and spills. It’s easier to clean than aniline leather and is the most common type used in furniture.
Check with the manufacturer or examine the furniture to determine the type of leather before proceeding with any cleaning methods.
2. Regular Dusting and Vacuuming
One of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your leather furniture looking great is by regularly dusting and vacuuming it to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the surface.
- Dusting: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the leather. This will prevent dust and dirt from building up over time, which could lead to scratches or dullness.
- Vacuuming: Using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, gently vacuum the crevices and seams of your furniture. This will help remove debris that has worked its way into the cracks and can prevent the leather from becoming scratched.
Performing this simple cleaning routine once a week will help maintain the beauty of your leather furniture.
3. Cleaning Spills and Stains Promptly
Leather can absorb liquid and oils if not treated quickly, which can lead to permanent stains or discolouration. The key to protecting your leather furniture is to act fast when spills occur.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: If something spills on your leather, immediately blot the area with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the spill, as this can push the liquid deeper into the leather.
- Mild Soap and Water Solution: For stubborn stains, mix a small amount of mild soap (like dishwashing liquid) with lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe the stained area. Avoid soaking the leather, as excess moisture can cause damage.
- Leather Cleaner: If you have a more stubborn stain, you can use a specialised leather cleaner designed for your type of leather. Always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain to ensure it doesn’t cause any discolouration.
Be sure to clean any spills immediately and avoid leaving liquids on your leather furniture for too long.
4. Conditioning Your Leather Furniture
Just as your skin needs moisturising, leather also benefits from regular conditioning to prevent it from drying out and cracking. Leather can lose its natural oils over time, especially with exposure to sunlight and heat, so conditioning helps to replenish these oils and keep the material supple.
- Choose a Suitable Leather Conditioner: Select a high-quality leather conditioner that is appropriate for your furniture’s type of leather. Apply the conditioner sparingly to a soft cloth and rub it gently into the leather in a circular motion.
- Test in a Hidden Area: Always test the conditioner on a small, hidden area of your furniture first to make sure it does not darken the leather or cause any unwanted effects.
- Frequency of Conditioning: Generally, conditioning leather once every 6 to 12 months should suffice. However, if your furniture is exposed to a lot of sunlight or is used frequently, more regular conditioning may be needed.
Conditioning your leather furniture helps maintain its soft, supple texture while preventing premature ageing and wear.
5. Protecting Your Leather Furniture
Preventing damage to your leather furniture is just as important as cleaning and conditioning it. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect it from stains, fading, and wear.
- Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Sunlight can cause leather to fade and dry out. Try to position your leather furniture away from direct sunlight or use window coverings to shield the leather from UV rays.
- Control Temperature and Humidity: Leather can become brittle in extreme temperatures or low humidity. Keep your furniture in a room with moderate temperature and humidity levels to prevent the leather from cracking or becoming overly dry.
- Use Leather Protectant: Leather protectants can form a barrier against stains, dirt, and spills. Apply a leather protectant spray according to the manufacturer’s instructions, but avoid using products that are too greasy or sticky.
By taking these precautions, you can extend the life of your leather furniture and maintain its pristine condition.
6. Repairing Scratches and Minor Damage
Over time, your leather furniture may experience minor scratches or scuffs. Fortunately, with the right care, most small imperfections can be repaired or minimised.
- Minor Scratches: For light scratches, gently rub the area with a soft cloth in a circular motion. The heat and friction from the rubbing can help blend the scratch with the surrounding leather.
- Leather Repair Kits: For more significant damage, such as deep scratches or cracks, you can use a leather repair kit. These kits typically include a filler to fill in scratches or gouges, as well as a dye to restore the colour of the leather.
- Professional Repairs: If the damage is extensive or if you’re unsure about repairing the leather yourself, it’s best to seek professional assistance. A leather repair specialist can restore your furniture to its original condition.
Catching minor issues early and addressing them promptly will prevent them from turning into bigger problems.
With the right care, leather furniture can last for many years, maintaining its elegance and durability. Regular dusting, prompt stain treatment, conditioning, and protective measures are key to keeping your leather furniture looking its best. While leather may require a bit more attention than other materials, the beauty and comfort it offers are well worth the effort.
By following these cleaning and care tips, you can ensure your leather furniture stays in top condition, providing both style and comfort for your home for years to come.