Leather furniture has become common-place in homes all around the world. Current trends go beyond just leather lounges, also including leather beds, bedsides, ottomans and coffee tables. While leather is one of the most durable upholstery materials available, it does require some special care. As leather is a natural material, it has porous properties making it breathable and comfortable to sit on year round. The downside to this porous nature is that it will absorb liquids, meaning caring for and cleaning leather is highly important. 

Natural marks on leathers are inherent to its nature - it’s important to remember that this material is in fact a skin and therefore may have different marks. These marks should not be seen as defects, rather as features of the leather. To care for your leather, leather preservatives or conditioners need to be applied several times a year. These preservatives as the name suggests, preserve the leather and reduce cracking.  Cracking can easily be caused by heat, so it is recommended to keep your leather furniture away from direct sunlight or sources of heat.

In terms of removing simple dust or crumbs, a dry cloth can be used to wipe leather furniture or if you have the correct attachment, you can also use a vacuum. If there is a spillage on the leather, it is recommended to blot rather than wipe to avoid spreading the spillage. A damp cloth with a mild soap may be used for minor spillages; however more stubborn stains require leather cleaner. It is best where possible to spot test when applying any liquids to leather to ensure it won’t cause any discolouration. After applying a damp cloth, it is best to dab the area with a dry cloth to absorb any excess moisture. Please note that you should not use any water or soap in the instance of grease being left on the leather, as this may make the situation worse.                                   

As the surface of leather can be delicate, especially aniline leather (those that don’t have artificial coatings), it is important to avoid scratching the surface where possible. This means ensuring that pointy objects are kept away from the leather, such as car keys or finger nails. How you care for your leather may also affect the warranty of the product, so make sure you ask at the time of purchase.