At Rising Sun Campers, we love transforming the interiors of our customer’s converted vans with comfortable and stylish upholstery. But what’s the best way to keep it looking its best?
Luckily, maintaining and cleaning leather upholstery is both practical and straightforward. Depending on the type of leather used, the cleaning process involves minimal effort, ensuring your furniture remains in great condition and develops a unique and charming appearance over time.
Here are some step by step-by-step instructions developed by leather experts Crest Leather to properly care for your leather furniture.
Before cleaning, determine the type of leather used in your upholstery – unprotected (aniline) or protected (semi-aniline and pigmented). Each type offers a distinct look and texture, and they both age gracefully, adding character to your furniture. Check the label for information about the leather finish. If not found, refer to the manufacturer’s website for product details. Once identified, gather the necessary cleaning supplies.
The typical leather cleaning process requires a soft cloth and a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. However, for a superior finish, consider using the following tools:
Organic, non-detergent liquid soap or a specialised leather cleaner.
Clean microfiber cloth.
A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.
Leather conditioner.
Using the brush attachment, thoroughly vacuum the surface of your upholstery to remove any dust and dirt, ensuring all nooks and crannies are cleaned thoroughly.
The approach to wiping varies depending on the type of leather. For unprotected leather (pure aniline), use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe it down. For protected leather, which can withstand moisture, use a microfiber cloth dampened with a solution of non-detergent soap and water. After cleaning, ensure the leather is dried completely with a separate clean, dry cloth.
To maintain the quality of your leather furniture, consider using a leather conditioner periodically. Choose a commercial leather conditioner without wax or silicone, as these can leave a sticky residue. Apply the conditioner once or twice a year as needed to keep the leather moisturized and healthy.
Taking care of leather furniture ensures it retains its beauty and durability for many years to come. Unlike other upholstery materials, leather develops its own unique patina, becoming even more elegant with time. Regular cleaning and proper care will help your leather furniture age gracefully and maintain its best appearance.
For reputable suppliers of leather aftercare products, consider exploring Buffalo Leather’s range of cleaning and aftercare solutions.
