Things got messy during last night’s get-together, and the leather couch is wearing the aftermath. Leather requires special care, and in this article, I will teach you how to clean leather furniture using different methods and options.
How to clean leather furniture is the various techniques for removing stains and dirt from leather without damaging the material. Leather furniture can be cleaned with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water. Always avoid getting leather too wet, use soft cloths, and condition once dry.
Leather furniture is a great addition to any home, and regular maintenance is part of that investment. Choosing the proper methods for cleaning leather furniture can prevent damage and preserve long-term durability.
What Is Cleaning Leather Furniture?
Cleaning leather furniture removes dirt, stains, and other contaminants from the surface of leather furniture. It is important to clean leather furniture regularly to keep it looking its best and to prevent damage to the leather.
What We’ll Explore
- Clearing up Myths & Misconceptions
- Reasons You Might Choose To Clean Leather Furniture
- Variations or Styles of How To Clean Leather Furniture
- How To Clean Leather Furniture Overview Table
- Skill Level of Cleaning Leather Furniture
- Tools and Supplies Needed To Clean Leather Furniture
- Cleaner for Leather Chairs
- How To Care For Leather Furniture
- Can You Use Shoe Polish On Leather Furniture
- How To Clean Leather Furniture Step by Step
- How To Remove Hairspray From Leather Chair
- How to Get Better at Cleaning Leather Furniture
- My Personal Research on How To Clean Leather Furniture
- Helpful Insights on How To Clean Leather Furniture
- Key Takeaways
Clearing Up Myths & Misconceptions
A common myth about cleaning leather furniture is that harsh chemicals should be used. This is untrue because harsh chemicals damage fibrous bonds in leather and lead to cracking and fading.
Some people say that lots of water can be used to clean leather furniture. This is partially untrue in that water can be used, but sparingly to prevent stains and mold.
It has also been said that a great deal of pressure must be used to scrub leather furniture clean. In actuality, scrubbing with pressure damages leather and causes scratches, cracks, and fading.
Reasons You Might Choose To Clean Leather Furniture
Furniture is a high-use item, and cleaning it is good to keep it looking great and feeling comfortable. Especially if children and pets are in the home, dirt and other contaminants build up on leather furniture, making it look dull. Cleaning is part of regular maintenance that keeps leather in good condition and maintains its durability. Other reasons to clean leather furniture include the following:
- Prevent cracks and fading.
- Prevent stains and discoloration.
- Remove allergens and disinfect.
- To prepare for conditioning
Regular cleaning and maintenance of leather furniture keep it soft and durable for many years.
Variations or Styles of How To Clean Leather Furniture
There may be several variations of how to clean leather furniture when one searches online, but very few are considered the right way to do it. When cleaning leather, it is best practice to use mild cleansers and soft tools to prevent scratching and cracking. Many companies specialize in leather care, and their products are specially formulated just for this. Here are the best variations of how to clean leather furniture:
- Leather cleaner
- pH-neutral soap and water
- Leather conditioner
Variations of natural or homemade cleaning products can be made for leather; however, these are best for a small spot or stain removal and not all-over cleaning.
How To Clean Leather Furniture Overview Table
| Area of Preparation | Details |
| Technique | How To Clean Leather Furniture |
| Overall Level of Skill (1–5) | 1 |
| Time to Complete (minutes/hours) | 30-60 minutes |
| Workspace Needed | Leather couch, stable surface for cleaning supplies |
| Skills Needed | Basic leather care |
| Tools and Supplies Needed | Leather cleaner, pH-neutral soap, water, bowl, soft cloths, vacuum, leather conditioner |
| Key Helpful Tip | Avoid getting leather too wet; allow air drying to prevent cracking. |
Skill Level of Cleaning Leather Furniture
Cleaning leather furniture does not require any special skills; however, following basic leather care procedures is essential to avoid damaging the leather. If there is any doubt or concern, there are always professional cleaners who have the knowledge and experience to safely and effectively clean leather furniture.
Tools and Supplies Needed To Clean Leather Furniture
Often the tools and supplies for cleaning leather furniture are already in the home. When preparing for cleaning, gather the following supplies:
- Leather cleaner
- pH-neutral soap
- Water
- Bowl
- Vacuum
- Soft cloths
- Leather conditioner
Cleaner for Leather Chairs
Commercial leather cleaners are available and effective for cleaning leather chairs. These all have special formulas for cleaning and protecting leather while removing dirt and contaminants. Leather chair cleaner comes in sprays or liquids and ranges in price from $5–$25.
A very effective alternative is using pH-neutral soap like dishwashing liquid or Dawn mixed in water. This cleanser can also remove dirt and stains without damaging leather.
How To Care For Leather Furniture
Leather furniture is made to be luxurious and durable, but regular maintenance is required to maintain durability and prevent damage. Regularly cleaning leather furniture is the first step in proper care. Removing dirt and contaminants prevents drying out, cracking, and fading.
Protecting leather furniture from sunlight and heat sources will prevent fading and damage. Regular applications of leather conditioner after every cleaning and every six months will help keep leather furniture soft and supple.
Watch this video from Boulevard Home to learn more about how to care for leather furniture.
Can You Use Shoe Polish On Leather Furniture?
Yes, shoe polish can be used on leather furniture to restore color and shine and remove scuffs and scratches. Not all shoe polishes are the same; some contain harsh chemicals that may damage leather with repeated use. Choose a shoe polish that is high-quality and designed for leather furniture and shoes.
How To Clean Leather Furniture Step by Step
Cleaning leather furniture can be done using various simple methods. Following the manufacturer’s instructions when using leather cleaning products is typically best. However, in general, follow these steps:
- Remove loose dirt and debris with a vacuum.
- Use a soft bristle attachment to get between cushions and in seams.
- Add a few drops of pH-neutral soap to water or follow the instructions on the leather cleaner.
- Dampen a soft cloth in the soap mixture or leather cleaner, squeezing any excess water.
- Gently rub the leather furniture with the damp cloth in small sections.
- Wipe off extra soap and moisture with a clean, soft cloth.
- Allow the leather furniture to air dry completely.
- Apply leather conditioner.
How To Remove Hairspray From Leather Chair
Hairspray can leave a sticky mess on the surface of leather. However, hairspray can be removed from leather by acting quickly and using the proper cleaning method. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing hairspray from a leather chair:
- Vacuum to remove loose dirt and debris from the area.
- Mix a few drops of pH-neutral soap in water to create suds.
- Dampen a soft cloth in the soapy mixture and squeeze out excess water.
- Gently rub the leather chair where the hairspray is located.
- Use a clean, soft cloth to remove excess soap and moisture.
- Allow it to air dry completely.
- Apply leather conditioner.
How To Get Better at Cleaning Leather Furniture
The best way to get better at cleaning leather furniture is with practice. Leather furniture needs regular maintenance and cleaning, which is a regular opportunity for practice. Try different types of pH-neutral soaps and commercial leather cleaners to see which works best. Learn from mistakes and just keep doing it!
My Personal Research on How To Clean Leather Furniture
Many people have leather furniture in their homes these days, and I asked several of them how and why they clean it. Here are the percentages of their responses and what I learned from the poll about cleaning leather furniture.
| Leather Furniture Cleaning Method | Times Selected |
| Dish soap and water for regular maintenance | 30% |
| Dish soap and water for stains from kids and pets | 20% |
| Dove soap and water for regular maintenance | 10% |
| Dove soap and water for stains from kids and pets | 10% |
| Leather cleaner for regular maintenance | 20% |
| Leather cleaner for stains from kids and pets | 10% |
Helpful Insights On How To Clean Leather Furniture
What is safe to clean leather furniture with?
Leather cleaner and pH-neutral soap and water are safe for cleaning leather furniture. Researchers Battig et al. inform us that chemicals are used to make leather flame retardant, and using the wrong cleanser can interfere with this. Always check leather furniture labels for special care instructions, and don’t use too much cleaner or water to prevent stains. Test new products in an inconspicuous spot to check for colorfastness and staining.
Can you use Dawn dish soap to clean leather furniture?
Yes, Dawn dish soap can be used to clean leather furniture. It is mild enough to clean leather without drying it out. Just mix a few drops of Dawn dish soap in a cup of water and create some suds for a gentle yet effective leather cleanser.
Can you use Windex to clean leather furniture?
No, Windex cannot be used to clean leather furniture. It contains alcohol, harsh chemicals, and dye that will dry leather out and stain it. Use a leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water for gentle cleaning of leather furniture.
What is the best thing to clean leather furniture with?
The most effective and gentle cleaner for leather furniture is pH-neutral soap and water. It preserves leather bonds and removes dirt and stains without drying out the material. Leather cleaner is also effective for cleaning leather furniture; just follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
Key Takeaways
- Leather furniture can be safely cleaned with leather cleaner or pH-neutral soap and water.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of leather furniture keep it soft and durable for many years.
- Apply leather conditioner to furniture every six months and after every cleaning to keep it supple.
In Closing
Leather furniture is luxurious and comfortable and deserves regular maintenance and cleaning to keep it in tip-top shape. An investment like this deserves extra care! These methods and options make any leather furniture look great for many years.
Other Resources:
- How to Clean Leather – The Simple Steps to Quality Results
- How To Clean White Leather – Unique Methods for This Color
- How To Clean White Leather Shoes – Safely and Easily
- How To Clean Leather Boots – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Wash A Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How To Get Wrinkles Out Of Leather for Different Leather Types
- How To Clean A Leather Purse – Guide from a Leather Crafter
- How To Disinfect Leather – Safe and Effective Methods
- How to Clean Mold From Leather – An Easy Step-by-Step
- How To Clean a Leather Jacket – Tips From a Leather Crafter
- How to Clean Leather Chairs – Step-by-Step from Experience
- Magic Eraser on Leather – Why It Should Generally Be Avoided
- How To Clean Patent Leather – Properly and Easily
- How To Wash Faux Leather – Clean Results Without Shrinking
- Can You Iron Leather? – When and How This Can Work Great
- How To Get Paint off Leather – While Protecting the Fibers
- Can You Steam Leather? – When It Works and How To Do It
- Water Stain on Leather – Easily Make It Look New Again
- How To Remove Creases From Leather Shoes Properly and Easily
- How To Polish Patent Leather Shoes and Preserve the Surface
- How To Clean Leather Sandals Without Shrinking Them
- How to Wash Leather – Based on Unique Leather Types
- How To Get Stains Out of Leather – Without Damaging Leather
- How To Clean a Leather Couch or Sofa With Proper Care
- Successful Methods To Easily Clean Leather Car Seats
- How To Clean Leather Shoes Properly – Step by Step
- How To Get Pen or Ink Out of Leather in Just a Few Minutes
- How To Clean a Leather Bag – Step by Step in Minutes
- How To Clean Leather Gloves – Steps, Tips, and Success
- How To Clean a Leather Wallet – With Helpful Maintenance Tips Too
- How To Get Sharpie Permanent Marker off Leather