Leather furniture adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any living space. So whether you have a leather sofa, a recliner or any other leather piece of furniture, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your investment looking its best for years to come. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to clean, protect, and maintain your leather reclining pieces to ensure they remain beautiful and comfortable.
How to clean your leather recliner furniture?
Understanding Your Leather
Before you start cleaning, it’s crucial to know the type of leather your recliner is made of. There are various types, and each may require slightly different care:
Aniline Leather: This type of leather is the most natural and unprocessed, with no protective coating. It’s incredibly soft and luxurious but susceptible to stains and fading. Cleaning aniline leather requires gentle care.
Semi-Aniline Leather: Semi-aniline leather has a minimal protective coating, making it more durable than aniline leather while retaining its natural appearance.
Protected or Pigmented Leather: Protected leather has a thicker protective coating, making it more resistant to stains and wear. It’s the most common type used in furniture.
Nubuck or Suede Leather: Nubuck is a type of aniline leather with a brushed surface, while suede is the split layer of leather. These are more delicate and require specialized cleaning methods.
Cleaning Your Leather Recliner
You’ll need:
✅ Mild leather cleaner (specific to your leather type)
✅ Soft cloths or microfiber towels
✅ Bucket
✅ Soft-bristle brush or upholstery brush
✅ Leather conditioner (optional)
Dusting and Vacuuming
Begin by dusting your leather recliner with a dry, soft cloth or vacuuming it using a brush attachment. This helps remove loose dirt and debris that can scratch the leather’s surface.
Spot Test
Always perform a spot test before cleaning a visible area. Apply a small amount of the leather cleaner to an inconspicuous spot. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off to ensure it doesn’t discolour or damage the leather.
Cleaning
☑ Mix warm water with a small amount of the appropriate leather cleaner in a bucket.
☑ Dampen a soft cloth or sponge in the soapy water, wringing it out thoroughly to ensure it’s not too wet.
☑ Gently wipe the leather surface in a circular motion. Avoid excessive scrubbing, as it may harm the leather.
☑ Pay special attention to areas with stains or spills. For stubborn stains, apply a bit more cleaner and gently rub the affected area.
☑ Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any soapy residue.
Drying
Allow your leather furniture to air dry naturally. Avoid using heat sources like hairdryers or heaters, as they can cause the leather to crack or dry out.
Conditioning (Optional)
If your leather furniture looks dry or lacks luster, consider applying a leather conditioner suitable for your leather type. This helps maintain the leather’s suppleness and prevent it from becoming brittle.
Preventive Care and Maintenance
☑ Avoid Direct Sunlight: Position your leather furniture away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and drying out.
☑ Regular Dusting: Dust your leather furniture regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dust buildup.
☑ Protect from Pets: Keep pets away from your leather furniture to prevent scratches and stains.
☑ Use Coasters: Place coasters under glasses and cups to prevent moisture rings from forming.
☑ Rotate Cushions: If your furniture has removable cushions, rotate them regularly to ensure even wear.
☑ Professional Cleaning: Consider professional cleaning and conditioning every 1-2 years, especially for high-use pieces.
By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you can enjoy the timeless beauty and comfort of your leather furniture for years to come. Proper care will not only preserve its appearance but also enhance its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for your home.
