Leather furniture is known for its durability and no-fuss maintenance. Unlike upholstered furniture that's vulnerable to stains, quality leather pieces can withstand pet hair, messy kids, and spills from late-night movie marathons. However, It's not impervious to all damage and will show wear and tear if it's not cared for properly. Keeping these maintenance tips in mind will keep your leather furniture looking great for years to come.

A Guide to Leather Furniture Maintenance

1. Know Your Leather

The term "leather," when referring to furniture, refers to a range of leather types and finishes. Aniline leather, also known as unprotected leather, is a material that doesn't have any added coatings or surface dyes. Unprotected leathers, sometimes called semi-aniline leathers, have been treated with a pigmented coating so that they can withstand wear and tear better. However, this can cause them to be stiffer. Knowing the type of leather you have determines the best way to clean and care for it. If you aren't sure, check the label or ask a furniture expert for help. 

2. Be Careful With Cleaners

You're likely to find all manner of leather cleaning and care hacks and tips online, but many of them will either cause damage or do nothing at all. Instead, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning, and if you have to use a cleanser, choose one that's specifically designed for leather upholstery. Be sure to avoid using anything caustic, including cleaners with ammonia, as they can cause irreparable damage to the leather. Usually, dusting with a microfiber cloth is all the piece needs to stay clean. 

3. Clean Spills Quickly

Contrary to popular belief, liquids can cause stains on leather upholstery, so clean up spills quickly to prevent spots. This is especially important for aniline leather furniture, which is more susceptible to staining due to its lack of protective coatings. 

4. Avoid the Sun

Harsh sunlight and heat can cause leather upholstery to fade and change colors. It can also cause the leather to become dry and cracked. Leather continually draws moisture from the air to remain supple. Because of this, an excessively dry environment means you'll need to regularly apply a leather conditioner or invest in a humidifier to prevent damage.

If your leather furniture has seen better days, turn to Lines Circles & Angles Custom Upholstery & Repair for help. Since 1975 these experts have offered custom upholstery services to Hamilton County, OH, including reupholstering, furniture repair, and padding work. They can help your old furniture look like new again. To learn more about their services, call (513) 984-1074 today or visit them online.