Leather Care Guide
The Nature of Leather
Leather is a natural skin, even when upholstered on furniture. It has limited elasticity and will soften and relax as you sit in it and with use.
All leathers will stretch and may develop comfort wrinkles, creasing, ripples, or puddling in the seat and back cushions. This is a natural characteristic of genuine leather and is not a defect – it actually will become even more relaxed and loose over time. This does not affect the wear of the leather but does increase the comfort!
Puddling, Wrinkles, & Creases
It is important to understand leather characteristics and reactions with use on upholstered furniture. Many issues that are mistaken as defects or damage are actually due to the natural relaxing of leather that occurs with use.
Natural Markings & Blemishes
Leather is a natural product, so each piece is unique. Due to this, markings or “natural blemishes” may be visible such as healed scars, fat wrinkles, creases, variations of texture, and color shading. The finishing process determines how visible these are. These should not be seen as defects; they are actually a sign of genuine leather.
- Dust & Vacuum Regularly Regular light cleaning goes a long way in helping your leather furniture last.
- Clean 3-4 Times Per Year We recommend using a water-based cleaner or a mild detergent (Dawn or Ivory heavily diluted with distilled water). Dampen a microfiber cloth, wipe areas of use, and immediately dry with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any moisture.
- Always Spot Test We can’t tell you how your leather will react to your favorite brand of cleaner or conditioner. Dab a small amount in a hidden spot, let it sit for 5 minutes, wipe off, and check back in 30 minutes for any discoloration or top coat deterioration.
- Alternate Your Favorite Seat Sitting in one spot causes that seat to soften more than others. Alternating seats ensures an even break-in and creates consistency in creasing, wrinkling, and stretching across the whole seating area.
- Beware of Perspiration Body oils and salts are the biggest contributor to color loss and breakdown in leather. Clean your leather regularly where your body touches most. (Note: Some medications may cause stains due to residues in perspiration).
- Avoid Sunlight & Extreme Heat Do not expose leather to direct sunlight or extreme heat, which may cause it to fade, dry out, and crack.
- Keep Damaging Substances Away Avoid sunblock, hair spray, perfume, nail varnish, or any liquid with alcohol/solvents. Do not use unspecified household cleaners, petroleum products, or products meant for saddles/footwear. Rinse off pool salt/chlorine before sitting.
- Do Not Let Spills Set Spills should be dealt with immediately to prevent discoloration. Blot with a dry microfiber cloth (a wet cloth can be used if dry blotting isn't enough). Greasy or oily stains may need professional attention.
Protect Your Investment
Leather should be cleaned often. Frequent and gentle cleaning is easier on leather versus less frequent, more aggressive cleaning.
Cleaning will remove dust, dirt, and perspiration. We recommend that you first wipe off any dust, paying special attention to those areas where particles will collect, such as the crevices between the seat and the back cushions.
