How to Clean and Maintain Leather Furniture (DIY Leather Cleaner Recipe)

Leather furniture brings elegance and long-lasting comfort to any home, but it needs special care to stay in top condition. In this guide, we’ll show you a simple DIY leather cleaner, share expert tips for regular maintenance, and teach you how to properly remove stains and condition your leather pieces. Keep reading to protect your investment and enjoy beautiful, supple leather for years to come!

DIY Leather Cleaner Recipe

The good news? You don't need expensive cleaners. Here’s how to make a safe and effective leather cleaner with household items:

What you’ll need:

• Mild dish soap
• Warm water
• Microfiber cloths

Steps:

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bowl of warm water.
2. Dampen a microfiber cloth (not soak) with the solution.
3. Gently blot the stained or dirty area.
4. Wipe down the area with a second cloth dampened with clean water.
5. Let the leather air dry completely.

Important: Always check the care label on your furniture before cleaning and confirm it's genuine leather.

How to Keep Leather Furniture Looking Its Best

Consistent, gentle cleaning is the key to keeping your leather in like-new condition.

Every two weeks:

• Dust with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Vacuum crevices with a soft brush attachment to remove debris.

Every six months:

• Deep clean using the DIY leather cleaner.
• Be careful not to oversaturate the leather—light dampness is best.
• Dry immediately with a clean microfiber cloth.

Regular maintenance prevents buildup of oils, dirt, and grime that can age your furniture prematurely.

Should You Condition Leather Furniture?

Absolutely. Conditioning leather once or twice a year restores its natural oils, preventing cracks and keeping the surface soft and vibrant.

How to condition leather furniture:

1. Make sure the furniture is completely clean and dry.
2. Apply a store-bought leather conditioner with a microfiber cloth.
3. Gently rub it into the leather in circular motions.
4. Wipe away any excess product with a dry cloth.

Conditioning not only enhances appearance but also extends the life of your leather pieces.

How to Remove Stains from Leather Furniture

Accidents happen! Here’s how to tackle common leather stains:

• General stains: Use your DIY soap-and-water solution to gently blot stains.
• Ink or coffee stains: Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball. Gently rub the stain and wipe clean with a damp cloth. Always test in a hidden area first.
• Grease stains: Sprinkle cornstarch over the stain. Let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil, then gently brush it away.

Patience is key—avoid scrubbing, which can permanently damage the leather.

Caring for Faux Leather Furniture

Faux leather may not have the same luxurious feel, but it still needs love!

Tips for faux leather care:

• Dust regularly with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Spot clean as needed with a mild soap and water solution.
• Apply a faux leather protector after each deep clean to shield the material from wear and tear.

Unlike real leather, faux leather cannot be conditioned, but protectors can extend its lifespan and maintain its finish.

Trust The Mop & Broom to Keep Your Fort Worth Home Fresh and Beautiful

Keeping your leather furniture clean is just one part of a tidy, welcoming home. If you’re in the Fort Worth area, The Mop & Broom can help you maintain a spotless, inviting space—giving you more time to relax and enjoy your beautiful furnishings.

Whether you need a regular home cleaning or a deep refresh, The Mop & Broom is your local expert for detailed, professional cleaning services.
Call us today at 817-318-6317 or request a free quote at The Mop & Broom!

FAQs About Cleaning Leather Furniture

How often should you clean leather furniture?

Lightly dust leather furniture every two weeks and perform a deep clean every six months.

Can you use vinegar on leather furniture?

It’s best to avoid vinegar, which can dry out and damage leather. Stick to mild soap and water.

What happens if you don't condition leather?

Without conditioning, leather can dry out, crack, and lose its luxurious look and feel over time.

Can you over-clean leather?

Yes—over-cleaning or using harsh chemicals can strip natural oils and cause premature aging.

What's the best way to protect leather furniture from stains?

Regular maintenance, quick spill cleanup, and occasional conditioning keep leather resistant to stains and cracks.

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