
Unsoiled or relatively clean leather can be simply wiped with a clean, slightly damp cloth.. For slightly soiled areas, add a small amount of mild soap to a damp rag and gently wipe away the grime. Use all-natural soap free of sodium laurel sulfate—this type of chemical found in many soaps and detergents can dry out the leather.
Helpful Tips
Always do a spot test somewhere inconspicuous when using anything besides water to be sure that it doesn’t discolor or otherwise damage the leather.
Distilled water is recommended when using moisture to clean leather.
When using the damp cloth, also keep a dry cloth available to wipe away loose particles and to quickly wipe dry the leather you’re cleaning.
Use leather cleaner for tougher cleaning jobs such as stains and spills. Don’t use regular, household all-purpose cleaners on leather, lest you risk stripping the leather of its natural oils, causing it to dry out and crack. Cleaners formulated for leather are usually made of natural waxes or oils, such as beeswax or saddle soap, which help clean and protect the leather. The best cleaners are made of wax rather than oil, which clean and condition the surface without saturating the leather.
Helpful Tip
Always check the tags or instructions that came with your furniture for tips on care to avoid damage from using the wrong type of cleaner or cleaning method.
Apply the leather cleaner to a slightly damp cloth and then wipe the area of the spill or stain in a circular motion until the surface is clean. Keep in mind that some stains may not be removable without assistance from a professional, and some stains may not be removable at all.
To clean a spill when it happens, use a dry cloth to blot the affected area until the liquid or other material has been removed. Don’t rub the spilled substance; this may push it in deeper into the surface and cause further staining.