Investing in leather furniture is always a good idea.
It looks great and has great
lasting power. A leather sofa can last up to four times longer than a fabric couch. Leather is tough but flexible, as it naturally resists punctures and tears. Because of its natural properties, it remains strong even around seams. Another bonus is… it’s also resistant to spills and dirt.
Wear and tear, of course, is inevitable, but as long as you clean and care for leather properly, the material will only improve with age like a fine wine. Think of leather like your skin; it’s a porous material and it changes over time. It does require care and regular maintenance to look and perform its best. Check out some tips on how to love and care for your leather:
Supplies and Materials for Cleaning Leather
You’ll need to stock up on some cleaning supplies: saddle soap, leather cream, soft cloth. rubbing alcohol, cotton swabs
Tackling Mild Stains
To clean mild stains, dip a clean, damp washcloth in warm soapy water and use it to wipe away the stain on your leather.
Stubborn Stains
If regular soap and water doesn’t work, try a soft cloth dipped in water and saddle soap or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol on ink stains. When using alcohol, just be careful to apply it directly on the stain spot, so the alcohol doesn’t spread the stain onto more of the leather.
Post-Stain Removal
Dry the leather with another clean, dry cloth to avoid mildew. For best results, leave the spot alone overnight. Then, apply a moisturizing leather cream with a clean cloth. Let it sink in, then buff to shine.
Location, Location, Location
Most of the time, cracking and other blemishes can be avoided. Placing a sofa right under your air-conditioning or next to a radiator or in front of a roaring fire is going to dry out the leather. Sunlight can also have this effect, so avoid putting furniture right next to a window or glass door, or hang light-blocking curtains.
Moisturizing is Key
Leather contains oils that need to be replenished every so often. They help to keep the upholstery soft and supple to the touch, but regular use can diminish its natural properties. This is why it’s important to use a specialized conditioner on your sofa, which will keep it looking good and help prevent it from drying out and cracking.
To treat specific distressed areas, find a treatment made for your type of leather. And remember, less is more when applying any product to leather. Always test a small area first.
For more information on the finest homes in the Palm Beaches, call a Tauber Real Estate Services specialist at 561.626.4633.