Leather is a popular and durable material and it’s sturdy, because of this it is a great choice for your home. Unlike popular belief leather isn’t hard to keep clean and keeping your leather lounge looking like new is easy if you follow a few simple steps.
DO
- Clean up any food spills immediately, as any oils in the food can bond permanently with the leather
- Regularly clean and moisturise your leather lounge to maintain its appearance. If you live in a more extreme climate you may need to moisturise your leather lounge a little more often. Always read the care label on your furniture for more information.
- If you can, rotate the cushions to even out wear.
- Wipe up any water spills straight away, never assume because it’s water it’s okay, don’t let it soak in, water stains will still leave a mark.
- Vacuum your leather lounge regularly with the soft upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner. Wipe over your lounge with a soft, damp, clean cloth each week as dirt and grime can be abrasive on leather.
DON’T
- Try not to get any *body oils* on the leather as it can oxidise and change the colour of your leather.
- If anyone sitting on the furniture is taking medication extra care will also be needed. Some medications can be excreted through the pores and can damage the surface coating of your leather. These medications can include – blood pressure, chemotherapy, diabetes and heart medications. Avoid prolonged exposure or take measures to protect your lounge.
- Don’t place your leather lounge near direct light or heaters as this can damage and fade the leather. Heat can also shrink leather, so avoid placing it near fireplaces and heaters.
- Sunlight can fade the colour in your leather, don’t place your lounge where it will be subjected to direct sunlight.
- Excessive exposure to high levels of body perspiration can damage the coating on the surface of your leather. If family members sit on your lounge after a run, mowing the lawn, sports and other physical activities take precautions, have them sit on a towel, or clean the lounge more frequently.
- Don’t allow dirt and grime to build up in the seams and folds of your lounge.
- Avoid using any other cleaning products other than the ones recommended to you by the manufacturer
How to look after your leather lounge
Leather is durable, but it does need some extra help and care to prevent it from drying out and fading. Most leather that is used on furniture has a clear top coat sealer to help protect the colour and stop it from drying out. If perspiration, dirt and grime is left to build up on the surface that protective top coat can be worn away which will reduce the life of your leather lounge.