Advice

Caring for your leather sofa

Leather behaves differently from fabric and therefore has different care properties. To ensure your leather sofa stays looking its best for longer, follow my handy care guide packed with help and cleaning advice.

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Why choose a leather sofa?

  • Naturally strong and long-lasting, ideal for everyday use
  • Ages beautifully over time, only adding to it's characterful charm
  • Easy to clean – simply wipe away spills and dust
  • Available in a range of colours and finishes to suit any style
  • Breathable material that adapts for year-round comfort
  • Adds a touch of timeless luxury to your living space
leather care faqs

Everyday advice for caring for your leather sofa


These everyday hints and tips will help keep your leather sofa in good condition for longer:


  • General cleaning of your sofa should be carried out once a week. Use a damp cloth and avoid using detergent, paying special attention to arms and back cushions
  • Always clean up any spills with a clean, damp cloth as soon as possible
  • Dirt and dust increases wear, dulls colours and reduces the lifespan of your furniture. Gently vacuum your sofa once a week with a soft brush attachment to remove any dirt or dust, paying particular attention to the front of the arms, as over time this can lead to dulling and abrasion
  • It’s important to minimise the amount of direct sunlight your leather sofa comes into contact with as this will lead to the colour fading and material deterioration. Keeping your curtains drawn or using a throw to cover any exposed material is a good way to minimise this
  • Avoid placing your furniture too close to radiators or fires as excessive heat will cause fading or cracking to your furniture
  • If cushions are detachable, plump them up every week or so to keep the fillings in their fullest shape by putting air back inside. Similarly, as the arms and backs are fibre-filled, they require the same amount of plumping
  • Denim or other non-colourfast fabrics may transfer dye onto your furniture, particularly on light leather colours
  • If the seats are removable swap them from side to side, to create an even wear and prevent any dipping
  • Avoid sitting on the arms or the front edge of your sofa, as this can speed up the wear process. Also, avoid putting any pressure on the side panels of a sofa, including the outside arms and back panels
  • When moving your sofa, always use two people. I'd advise using furniture glides or castors to make it easier to move furniture and protect your flooring. Glides can also be used on other pieces of furniture, such as tables, chairs and units to prevent potential damage.

How to plump loose and fixed cushions


  • Daily plumping to bring air back into them – provides a fuller look for the foam cushions
  • Daily smoothing to prevent creasing, folds and shading
  • Daily aligning of the seams of the cushions helps to maintain shape and great looks 
  • Alternate seating to ensure even use and wear
sofa plumping guide

FAQs

In the first few weeks of use, all leather stretches, creases and wrinkles this is due to the properties of natural hide. This characteristic of genuine leather enhances its look and authenticity. Like all leather products, you’ll break your new sofa in and get to enjoy the utmost comfort over time.

To keep it looking its best, smooth out the cushions regularly, which helps restore air and maintain a taut appearance.

As a natural product, each piece of leather is unique and comes with its own characteristics normally found in genuine natural leather.

You may notice grain variations from one panel to another, but these natural markings are not detrimental to the wear or life expectancy of the furniture.

It’s important to look after your foam-filled sofa daily to keep it in good condition, ensuring you can relax in comfort every time you sit on your sofa.

Foam-filled cushions start their life with a firmer appearance, but within the first few months of use they will soften. This is a natural process, so don’t worry, it’s not a fault of the product. Wherever possible, ensure all seats receive equal use.

If you have chosen a fabric sofa with fixed back cushions and arm pads, smooth out any creases daily to maintain the best look and shape. Be sure to plump and reshape your cushions regularly so they retain their shape.

To remove scratches or scuffs from a leather sofa, first clean the area with a soft cloth and mild leather cleaner. For light scratches, gently rub with your fingertip or apply leather conditioner; for deeper marks, use a matching leather repair cream or kit, then condition the area to protect it.

I hope you’ve found this guide helpful and you now feel confident in looking after your beautiful leather sofa. If in doubt please refer to the manufacturer’s guide supplied with your sofa. 

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