A leather lounge is an expensive and bespoke furniture piece- not one to discard easily. Therefore, it is important to keep it looking as good as new for as long as possible. Besides, such a treasured lounge, though robust, is a delicate item. It can easily suffer long-lasting damage when cleaned or maintained using the wrong procedures or products.
Keeping A Leather Lounge Looking Better
A leather lounge requires unique maintenance methods different from those required for other types of upholstery. There are factors to consider in the handling of leather lounges. They include;
Distinguishing Between Genuine Leather and Faux Leather
There are different types of faux leather on the market. Some mimic genuine leather well enough that only a discerning eye can detect the differences. Real leather items smell distinctly like oak, unlike fake leather. Faux leather has a smooth, clean finish with no pores and a cool, plastic texture that feels smooth. On the other hand, natural leather has a warm, grainy feel and though flexible, does not stretch when pulled.
Reliable suppliers of genuine leather lounge products use labels to confirm the authenticity of their products. Still, some dealers try to pass off faux leather as genuine leather at the price of natural leather. That is why it is necessary to know how to distinguish between the two to get quality products and value for money.
The ability to identify genuine leather products helps in their cleaning and maintenance. Knowing their authenticity makes it easy to choose the correct cleaning procedures and products distinct from genuine leather.
Different Problems, Different Strokes
When cleaning leather lounges in Sydney, what works for a specific cleaning problem can damage the lounge when resolving another. There are proven ways of handling everyday and serious cleaning needs without compromising the quality of the leather lounge. They include;
- For General Cleaning
Vacuum or lightly brush off dirt, dust, loose particles, and other debris. The best vacuum for this task should have a brush attachment to avoid scratching the upholstery. Use slow sweeping motions to suck up all the dirt, animal hair, crumbs, and other rubbish on the lounge. The vacuum crevice tool reaches the edges and seams where your fingers cannot reach. Do this once or twice weekly to avoid an accumulation of dirt.
Mix white vinegar and water and use a soft microfiber cloth for more serious cleaning. Dip the cloth in the solution and use it to wipe down any stubborn spots on the leather lounge.
- To Remove Oil and Grease Stains
Vacuum the lounge to remove dust and debris. There are two preparations suitable for the cleaning required for grease and oil. One uses baking powder and a steamer, and the second uses water and vinegar. Finish the cleaning by drying the area with a towel to remove dampness. Consult a professional cleaner if the stains stay.
- Removing Ink Stains
To reduce the effects of ink stains on a leather lounge, act fast on them. All stains require quick response to avoid getting out of hand. Pour rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and dab the stain gently until it lifts. Repeat with fresh balls of cotton balls with rubbing alcohol until it disappears. Finally, pat the area dry with a clean absorbent cloth.
- Conditioning a Leather Lounge
Besides keeping your leather lounge clean for hygiene and aesthetic purposes, leather seats require conditioning as part of their maintenance. Since real leather is a natural product, it has oils that keep it moisturised and give it a lustrous appearance. The oils deplete with time, making the lounge develop cracks, feel rough and look old.
Conditioning the leather lounge maintains its moisture level and keeps it looking new. For the best results and to prolong the couch’s durability, condition the seat after every cleaning.
The next step in keeping the leather lounge supple is the application of a leather perseverative on the entire lounge. It brings out the best of a real leather couch and only requires a light coating of a natural wax conditioner. After applying it using circular motions, buff the lounge to give it a shine.
- Use Appropriate Cleaning Products
Before using any cleaning product, pick an inconspicuous spot on the leather lounge to test the effect of the product on it. Mild soap mixed in warm water is another option for cleaning leather upholstery. At all times, wipe it gently and without rubbing.
Any product used to clean your leather lounge, including water, must be used sparingly, and the leather lounge should be patted dry immediately to avoid damage from moisture stains. Harsh cleaning products must be avoided, including products containing any amount of ethyl alcohol, acetone, ammonia, and trichloroethylene.
- Remove Odours From A Leather Lounge
Deodorising a leather couch requires sprinkling baking soda on the affected area and leaving it for approximately fifteen minutes to absorb the smell. In addition, there are special enzyme sprays made for stubborn odours.
On the other hand, mild detergents with pleasant-smelling perfumes, when used to clean out such spots, remove the unpleasant smell. Sometimes the odour comes from dirt particles lodged on the seat, and the smell disappears with simple cleaning with soap and water.
- Precautions And When To Contract Professional Cleaners
Before investing in a leather lounge, check the manufacturer’s guidelines on its furniture tag. Some manufacturers offer an owner’s manual describing the procedures for cleaning and caring for the leather lounge. They also give a list of recommended cleaning and conditioning reagents.
- A Loved Leather Lounge Loves Back
A leather lounge is a statement piece lasting through generations. It adds character and bespoke beauty to a living space. Buying a genuine leather lounge from a trusted manufacturer and seller is one way to enjoy its value. The other is investing in giving it proper and professional care and maintenance to keep it looking magnificent daily to enjoy its comfort longer. Do not hesitate to contact or visit us for all queries on the supply and professional care of leather furniture.
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