Leather Upholstery Care - Looking after leather

Whilst leather is durable it does need care to help prevent damage from drying out and fading.

The following tips will help you care for your leather furniture and add years of life, while enjoying it every day:

 DO

1. Regularly clean and moisturise leather upholstery to maintain its appearance. In extreme climates you’ll need to moisturise the leather more often.

2. Wipe up water spills straight away, don’t let it soak in. Water based stains will leave a mark.

3. Clean up food spills straight away. Food oils can permanently bond with the leather.

4. Vacuum regularly with a soft upholstery attachment. Wipe over the leather with a damp, soft, clean cloth weekly. Dirt and grime can act as abrasives on leather.

5. If you can, rotate the cushions to even out the wear.

DON’T

1. Don’t place leather furniture near direct light / sun light or heaters as they can fade and damage the leather.

2. Try not to get body oils on the leather, as they can oxidise and change the colour of the leather. Special care is also required if anyone sitting on the furniture is taking medication.

3. Sunlight can fade the colour in your leather.  Keep away from direct sunlight.

4. Heat can shrink leather.  Keep your leather furniture away from direct heat sources like fire places and heaters.

5. Keep direct, dust and food spill off the surface.  It's especially important that you don't allow grime to build up in folds and seams.  Avoid using any other cleaning products other than the ones recommended as part of this Accident Care Plan.  The use of other products may void your Plan and can harm or even damage the surface finish.

6. Be aware that some medication (specifically heart medication, blood pressure, chemotherapy and diabetes tablets) can be excreted through the pores and may damage the surface coating of your leather.  Take measures to protect your leather from prolong direct exposure if you or any persons using the furniture are taking such medication.

7. Excessive exposure to high levels of body perspiration can damage the surface coating of your leather.  If your leather is going to be exposed to excessive perspiration ensure that it is cleaned more frequently