The Worst Mistake To Avoid Making When Cleaning Leather Furniture

For many people, leather furniture can be a status symbol, symbolizing luxury and comfort. While it can add a touch of sophistication to a home, it can also require a bit of knowledge about how to be in good condition. Proper care is key to keeping it looking and feeling its best. Though you may do all you can to prolong your furniture's life, there is a seemingly innocent practice that harms your leather finish. Applying heat to leather furniture is one of the biggest cleaning mistakes to make.

Let's face it, spills happen. This is especially true if you have kids. No one wants to live in fear of their furniture and though leather is expensive and you understandably don't want it ruined, the way you attempt to clean up the spill can do more harm than the spill itself. One of the things you need to know before you buy leather furniture is that while a blast from your hair dryer might seem like a quick fix for drying spills, it can be a recipe for disaster.

It's a natural instinct for many of us to quickly dry a fabric after a spill by using heat but leather is not like other furniture materials. The natural oils and proteins in the leather act as its protective shield, keeping it supple and strong. However, heat can melt and weaken the leather, and that can leave it highly vulnerable to cracks and tears. In addition, leather's natural dyes are surprisingly sensitive to heat and can also cause discoloration. Applying heat can cause them to fade, leaving your couch looking washed out.

For these reasons, you should avoid all types of heat on leather furniture. This includes using a hair dryer on a spill or leaving it in the sun to dry. Leather furniture should also never be placed close to radiators, heaters, or in areas of high sunlight. The ideal temperature to keep leather in tip-top shape is what is comfortable for most people, typically between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are plenty of gentle, effective ways to clean and care for your leather furniture. For everyday cleaning, believe it or not, the first thing you need to do is dust your leather furniture. When you do the regular dusting of your other furniture, do the same for your couch. This will help prevent a build-up of dust, skin cells, and food crumbs that can commonly be found on couches and chairs. Simply use a soft cloth to wipe away dust and dirt. No harsh chemicals or aggressive scrubbing is necessary.

For spills, blot up any excess liquid with a clean, absorbent cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain. Gently dab at the spill since the goal is to absorb the liquid, not smear it around. Then gently wipe it with a damp cloth. If you want to do a deeper cleaning, one of the best cleaning methods for leather furniture is to invest in a good leather cleaner and conditioner specifically formulated for your type of leather. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. The right formula will nourish and protect the leather without causing damage.