At HomeQuestionsAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
How do I Care for a Distressed Leather Sofa?
A distressed leather sofa is often used as a center piece in a bedroom or living room. The sofa will require careful maintenance to safeguard its aesthetic features. Regular wipe downs, proper removal of dirt and grime, and actively maintaining proper oil levels will play a factor when caring for a leather sofa.
Regularly wipe down the leather sofa with a dry cloth. Even if the owner is being meticulous in maintaining the health of the leather, regular wipe downs will help remove any contaminants from ruining the leather. Always make sure that the cloth being used is not abrasive.
Do not put dirty footwear onto the distressed leather sofa, as the grime on the bottom of the shoe can dirty the leather. Contaminants that accumulate on the surface of the leather will require frequent cleaning, which can rob the leather of the essential oils that help keep it pliable. In addition, try not to eat or drink while sitting on the sofa. Many sugary drinks will leave a sticky film on the leather once dried, potentially ruining the leather, while extremely hot food can also warp the leather, subsequently damaging it. Crumbs can also cause friction, potentially cutting or ripping the distressed leather sofa over time.
Make sure to clean the distressed leather sofa as soon as any food, drinks, or grime gets on it. It is important not to saturate the leather with any liquid, as excess moisture will facilitate an unattractive warping of the leather. Get a bucket and put in a few drops of a mild detergent, and then agitate the water to create a light foam. Douse a small towel with the cleaning solution, wring out excess liquid so that it is just slightly damp, and lightly wipe down the surface of the distressed leather sofa, making sure to get into the nooks and crannies. Wipe down the sofa with another towel dampened with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Cleaning the sofa will remove some of its essentials oils, making the distressed leather sofa prone to tears. Polish a small amount of leather conditioner onto the surface. The emollient properties in the conditioner will soften the leather, replenishing proper moisture levels. Try not to place the sofa in direct sunlight, as the rays from the sun can dry out the leather. Excessive exposure to ultra violet rays can also speed aging of the leather.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![A towel should be doused with cleaning solution and wrung out before being used to clean the surface of a distressed leather sofa.]()
By: sunabesyouA towel should be doused with cleaning solution and wrung out before being used to clean the surface of a distressed leather sofa. -
![Water can damage distressed leather.]()
By: LuminisWater can damage distressed leather.
Discussion Comments
If you are on a budget do you think that people can really tell the difference between faux leather sofas and real modern leather sofas?
We have seen some discount leather sofas but even they seem to be out of our price range. My wife has been eyeing a white leather sofa for a few months now, and I know she really wants it, but it is just so expensive.
Does anyone know if there is a good place to buy real leather sofas at a deep discount, for example a wholesale seller online? Even with shipping I might be able to find something affordable.
@Sara007 - We had to think long and hard before purchasing a distressed leather couch too because we had always been told how hard it was to keep leather looking its best. We ended up buying one of the huge leather sectional sofas for our living room and we couldn't be happier.
It really doesn't take that much work to care for a leather sofa, we just keep a cotton cloth handy and wipe it down once a week. We also vacuum under the cushions whenever we do the floors. Our friend also gave us this great leather cream that we can rub into the sofa. It keeps the leather soft and looking great. Just remember, no food on the sofas or you're asking for trouble.
My family and I are considering buying a pair of reclining leather sofas and a leather sleeper sofa for our family room and are wondering if it going to be a problem taking care of them?
We don't have pets, so we're not worried about them wrecking the sofas but we do have small children. We have heard that keeping distressed leather furniture looking its best can be a chore.
We have spotted a great deal on cheap leather sofas and it seems like a shame to let such a good deal go. We have always wanted leather, just because we love the look of it.
Post your comments