WHILE leather furniture are quite beautiful and elegant, maintaining it could be a challenge!
Note that improper cleaning techniques could easily cause damage to them as well but website howtocleanstuff.net has some useful tips for you before you get started.
What you will need:
nVacuum cleaner with soft brush attachment;
nMild liquid facial or body soap (such as Dove or Neutrogena);
nDistilled water;
nBuckets;
nAt least four soft rags;
nWater-based leather protector/conditioner (found in most furniture stores);
nIt is best to use distilled water because tap water may contain chlorine and other contaminants which can damage the surface of the leather.
Cleaning instructions
1. Vacuum the piece of furniture thoroughly, being sure to use the soft brush attachment (leather scratches easily). If the suction on your vacuum is too strong, consider using a smaller hand held vacuum with less power to prevent leaving marks on the leather.
2. Mix a few drops of liquid soap with about a quart of distilled water, mixing until suds form.
3. Test a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture first.
4. Dip one of the rags in the soapy water and wring out thoroughly.
5. Working one section at a time, wipe the surface of the furniture with the damp rag.
6. Dip a separate rag in clean distilled water (no soap), wring thoroughly, and wipe away the soap residue.
7. Dry thoroughly with the third rag.
8. Buff the surface with the fourth clean rag to restore luster.
9. Treat the surface with leather protector/conditioner as per product instructions.
Leather furniture stain removal
Remember to always test a small, inconspicuous area of the furniture first before using any of these methods.
Ink stains:
Dip a cotton swab in rubbing (Isoprophl) alcohol and rub over the ink stain. Dry with a blow dryer set on its lowest setting.
Dark stains: (i.e. food, blood, etc.): Make a paste of one part cream of tartar with 1 part lemon juice. Rub this paste on the stain and leave it set for 10 minutes.
Remove the paste with a damp rag and moisturising soap, as described above for general cleaning.
Buff the leather dry with a soft cloth.
Grease stains: Simply wipe stain from the leather using a dry cloth. Do not apply water to the grease stain.
Newsprint:
Newspapers left on leather furniture can cause a newsprint ink stain. Spray the stain lightly with aerosol hair spray and then wipe with a soft cloth.
