DIY Tips: How to clean your leather sofa

We bring to you homemade ways to clean your leather furniture, so you may keep this priceless investment stainless and pristine for years to follow
DoitYourself Tips How to clean your leather sofa
Leather sofas can make your home look stylish and sophisticated. This is why it is important to keep this piece well-maintained and clean. Photo courtesy PHXIndia/ Design Inc

The right leather sofa can set the tone for any space. Don't we all spend the most time picking out the perfect piece for our homes? From quality and durability to comfort and beauty, there is a lot to consider. But with great aesthetics also comes great responsibility. Leather sofas may be the most popular choice, but they are also prone to scratches and marks. However, with the right care and treatment, they can last a lifetime.

Here is a comprehensive guide to maintaining your leather sofa.

1. DIY Home Tip To Clean Leather Sofa: Water and White Vinegar

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar.

Take a soft muslin cloth dipped in the mixture to gently wipe the surface evenly.

Clean the sofa with a fresh towel before allowing time for ageing, then wipe the entire length with a soft muslin cloth.

This will restore the original shine of your sofa.

Leather is prone to scratches and discolouration Photo credit: MyORUGA/WikiCommons

2. DIY Home Tip To Clean Leather Sofa: Rubbing Alcohol

For fungus or mould, dab rubbing alcohol on a muslin cloth and wipe the sofa gently to remove mould and clean out the dirt.

For ink stains, dab with a paper towel to absorb the ink before gently rubbing the stain with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Test the alcohol at a discreet area to check its compatibility with the leather's finish before going directly for the spot.

Rubbing alcohol can remove most stains and spots from your couch. Photo credit: Matti Blume/WikiCommons

3. DIY Home Tip To Clean Leather Sofa: Olive Oil and Vinegar

Apply vinegar directly to the soiled area and let it dry before going over it with a soft cloth dipped in olive oil.

Another easy mixture is to use a mild hand or dish soap mixed with warm water. This solution works great for simple dirt and dust.

Vinegar and olive oil is a great solution to treat stains on leather sofas. Photo credit: www.Pixel.la Free Stock Photos/WikiCommons

4. DIY Home Tip To Clean Leather Sofa: Flaxseed Oil and Vinegar

Prepare a mixture of 1-part white vinegar and 2 parts flaxseed oil.

Shake the mixture well before applying it to the surface with a soft cloth.

Let the solution sit for 12 hours and then clean the sofa with a dry cloth.

Maintain the natural sheen of your sofa with flaxseed oil and vinegar. Photo credit: Linsenhejhej/WikiCommons

DIY Home Tips To Clean Leather Sofa: A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Never expose leather to sunlight as the heat can cause it to fade.

Keep leather away from air conditioning units as the cold air can cause the leather to dehydrate leading to cracks on the surface.

Attend to stains, spills and mishaps immediately. Don't let the leather soak in the substance before you try to salvage it.

Every few months, seek the help of professionals to deep clean your sofa.

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