Leather is a versatile and stylish material used for furniture, clothing, accessories and more. While beautiful, real leather requires some care and maintenance to keep it looking its best. Learning how to clean leather properly will help extend its life and maintain its supple, soft texture. Follow this step-by-step guide to cleaning leather and bring new life back into your leather goods.
Why it’s Important to Clean Leather
Cleaning leather regularly removes dirt, oil and other debris that can break down the material over time. Dust, dirt and oil from your skin are absorbed into leather, dulling the surface. Unless removed, these contaminants can dry out leather, making it stiff and brittle.
A simple cleaning helps maintain leather’s natural oils and softness. It also keeps leather looking pristine, restoring vibrancy and extending how long you can enjoy leather items. From clothing to furniture, a basic cleaning routine is key for longevity.
Supplies Needed for Cleaning Leather
Cleaning leather doesn’t require much. Gather these supplies before getting started:
- Leather cleaner or mild soap
- Soft cloth
- Soft brush or toothbrush
- Saddle soap (optional)
- Leather conditioner
- Microfiber towel
- Water
Avoid household cleaners, chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the leather’s finish. Harsh cleaners strip away natural oils, while scrubs can scratch the surface.
How to Clean Leather Step-By-Step
Follow these steps to clean leather properly without causing any damage:
1. Remove Excess Dirt
The first step is removing any loose dirt or debris from the leather. Gently brush the leather with a soft brush to lift dirt from the creases and textures. This removes the most concentrated layers of grime before cleaning.
2. Create a Cleaning Solution
Prepare a cleaning solution of lukewarm water and a small amount of mild soap or leather cleaner. Dip a soft cloth into the solution, then wring it out so it’s damp but not dripping. Avoid saturating the leather.
3. Wipe Down the Leather
Gently wipe down the leather item with your damp cloth, applying the cleaning solution over the surface. Work it into creases and seams to lift dirt from the leather. Avoid scrubbing or using force.
4. Rinse the Cloth
Once dirt is lifted, rinse out your cloth with clean water to remove residue. Wring it out again until slightly damp.
5. Wipe Away Residue
Lightly wipe the leather again using your damp cloth to pick up any leftover soap or dirt. The leather should feel clean and look vibrant again.
6. Dry Thoroughly
Use a fresh microfiber towel to thoroughly dry the leather. Allow it to air dry completely before using leather conditioner. Damp leather can warp or become damaged.
7. Condition the Leather
Once fully dry, apply a leather conditioner. Rub it gently over the surface using a clean, soft cloth. This nourishes leather, restoring oils that keep leather flexible and help repel dirt.
8. Buff to a Shine
Finally, buff the leather with a clean, dry cloth to create a nice shine. Use circular motions to bring out the leather’s natural luster.
And that’s it! With a simple cleaning routine, you can keep leather looking luxe for years.
Tips for Cleaning Different Types of Leather
- For suede leather, use a suede brush and specialized suede cleaner instead of soap. Avoid excessive water.
- For finished leathers, avoid conditioners and stick to mild cleaners and water only.
- For unfinished leather, condition regularly after cleaning to prevent drying out.
- For delicate leathers, dilute the soap slightly more during cleaning. Rinse and dry extremely gently.
- For leather shoes, use a shoe cleaner kit for best results. Apply protectant spray after drying.
- For leather furniture, test cleaners on a discreet area first to check for color transfer or damage.
When to Call in a Professional
While regular leather is simple to clean at home, some scenarios may require a professional’s touch:
- Leather is extremely dried out or cracked. A pro can rehydrate severely damaged leather.
- Color has transferred onto the leather, leaving permanent stains. Pros have staining treatments.
- Leather has mold or mildew. This requires specialized mold removal solutions.
- Important vintage or designer pieces. Professionals properly handle these delicate items.
- Upholstery has deep, set-in stains. Pros have tools to clean leather furniture deeply.
If you’re unsure how to clean very damaged or delicate leather, don’t risk causing harm. Consult a professional leather cleaner instead.
Maintain Clean Leather
Regular, gentle cleaning keeps leather looking fresher longer. Avoid over-cleaning leather too often, as this can strip the finish. Simple dusting and vacuuming between cleanings prevents buildup.
Storing leather properly also prevents damage and dirt. Keeping leather out of direct sunlight helps items avoid drying out or fading. Use leather protectants and conditioners to maintain flexibility and sheen. With some basic care, quality leather items become long-lasting staples.
FAQs About Cleaning Leather
Cleaning and caring for leather correctly helps items last for many years. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about keeping leather looking its best:
What’s the best way to clean leather furniture?
Use a soft brush to remove dirt. Then, create a mild soap solution and wipe down the furniture gently. Rinse with water before drying thoroughly. Finally, apply leather conditioner.
Can I use household cleaners on leather?
Avoid household cleaners, chemicals, and abrasives. These can strip finishes and damage leather. Mild soap and water work well for basic cleaning.
How do you clean leather bags?
Remove loose dirt with a soft brush. Dampen a cloth to gently wipe the bag’s interior and exterior. Rinse then dry fully with a towel. Use a leather conditioner or bag polish to finish.
How often should you clean leather?
Clean leather whenever it appears dull, dirty, or dusty. For heavy use items, clean every 2-3 months. For minimal use, an annual cleaning may suffice. Over-cleaning leather can cause drying.
What’s the best way to condition leather?
After cleaning leather, apply a leather conditioner while the item is still slightly damp. Rub it over the surface with a soft cloth. Buff the item with a dry cloth once done to create a nice shine.
Caring for quality leather helps items last for many years. By learning proper cleaning techniques, you can keep leather goods looking their very best.
