Leather is a popular choice in furniture that adds style and character to any room in a home. It is one of the more durable and low-maintenance surfaces for home furnishings. Keeping your leather upholstery clean and in top condition is relatively simple if you follow the proper care. However, different types of leather upholstery have different cleaning requirements.
How leather is processed determines which of the three main categories it falls under:
Aniline Leather
This is the most natural-looking leather but is highly priced. As it is not coated with any additional polymers or pigments it retains all the unique markings and characteristics.
Semi-Aniline Leather
It is just a little bit tougher than aniline leather as its surface has been treated with a light coat that contains some pigment, which makes it more soil and stain-resistant.
Protected or Pigmented Leather
This is the most durable type of leather and has a polymer surface coating containing pigments which adds more resistance to scuffing or fading.
What to protect your leather from?
Unlike most fabrics, leather is extremely difficult to restore once it is damaged and it is sensitive to many things. Leather furniture is commonly vulnerable to:
Marks, Scuffs, and Scratches,
Broken Stitching, Cracks, Tears and Rips,
Fading and Discoloration
What are the major causes for Fading and Discoloration?
Oils & Grease
Over a long time, body oils and perspiration create a chemical reaction changing the pH level and affect the protective finishes of your leather.
Atmospheric Soils
Direct sunlight / UV rays, humidity, and dust deposits draw moisture out of your leather’s fibers and dislocate vital natural oils that cannot be replenished. Airborne pollutants like cooking oils and atmospheric pollution also cause damage.
Common Soils
Stains caused by dirt brought into the home by people and pets may leave a permanent tint on your leather. Plants can also easily leave bright green stains due to the chlorophyll in them that acts like a dye on leather.
Dyes, Inks, and Paints
Stains from paint, dyes, and inks are considered inorganic stains are tougher to remove. The faster you act, the better. Wet stains are easier to remove, so it’s important to act as quickly as possible before they dry.
Regular care is the best defense against wear and tear to extend the life of your furniture
- Vacuum furniture before using cleaning products
- Blot spills quickly
- Keep pets off of furniture
- Take care to prevent contact with sharp objects
- Protect your furniture from direct sunlight
- Care for cushions by turning them around and fluffing them
- Dust weekly with a dry microfiber cloth
- Check the manufacturer's labels for care instructions
Professional cleaning
Besides your regular cleaning, it is recommended to have furniture cleaned professionally between 2 and 4 times a year, depending on its age and the amount of wear it gets.
In addition to avoiding long-term damage to the upholstery, cleanings also help to remove potential allergens which are obvious health hazards for people who suffer from allergies.
Call Classique Chem-Dry today on 1800 213 006 / 0458 213 408 or schedule an appointment for professional upholstery cleaning to maintain the health and beauty of your leather furniture.
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