Leather upholstery is a sophisticated and comfortable addition to any space, but maintaining its pristine condition demands attention to detail and the right approach to care and cleaning. Here’s an quick guide to ensure your leather upholstery remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Understanding Leather Types

Leather upholstery comes in various types, each with unique cleaning needs. Common types include:

• Aniline Leather: This soft and natural-looking leather is quite absorbent. Care involves gentle cleaning using a damp cloth and a specialised leather cleaner designed for delicate surfaces.
• Semi-Aniline Leather: More robust than aniline, semi-aniline leather has a slight protective coating. It stands up better against stains and wear. Routine cleaning should involve a mild leather cleaner.
• Pigmented Leather: Commonly used in furniture due to its durability and resistance to wear and fading. Regular cleaning can be done with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution, ensuring the soap is leather-safe.

Cleaning Products and Techniques

When cleaning leather, it’s essential to:

• Test First: Conduct a spot test with any cleaner on a hidden area to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
• Gentle Cleaning: Use a soft cloth dampened with a mild, leather-specific cleaner. It’s important to avoid soaking the leather as excessive moisture can cause damage.
• Regular Dusting: Regularly dusting with a dry cloth helps prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the leather. It’s important to use products specifically designed for leather.

Conditioning and Maintenance

Post-cleaning, conditioning is essential to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. A high-quality leather conditioner should be applied every six to twelve months using a soft cloth. Gently massage the conditioner into the leather for best results.

Spot Removal

For dealing with spills:

• Blot Immediately: Gently blotting spills with a clean, dry cloth can prevent the stain from setting in.
• Stain Specific Treatment: For tougher stains, use a leather-specific stain remover and follow the product instructions.
• Avoid Rubbing: Rubbing a stain can embed it deeper into the leather, making it harder to remove.

Professional vs. DIY Cleaning

Too busy or just unsure how best to tackle your tired looking leather upholstery? Then perhaps it’s time to call in the professionals. If you are you based in greater Sydney and are thinking your leather lounges, couches, dining room chairs or car seats are due for a professional clean, contact our team today for an obligation free quote. The Neo Carpet Cleaning team are experienced professionals with all upholstery types and can get your leather upholstery looking like new once again.