How to Care for Leather Furniture Safely

Leather, coated leather, faux leather and bonded materials have different care requirements. Identify the furniture's material and finish and check the maker's instructions before applying water, cleaner, conditioner or polish.

Upholstery cleaning on a sofa in an Australian lounge

Identify leather and finish type

Look for the furniture care label or product documentation. Aniline, protected, coated and synthetic finishes can react differently to moisture and products. If the surface is unknown, test only as the maker directs or ask a leather-care specialist.

Close-up of leather armchair finish and its care tag

Remove loose dust and respond to spills

Use a soft dry cloth to remove dust. Blot a fresh spill without rubbing, then follow the maker's spot-care instructions. Avoid soaking seams, perforations, cushions or unfinished edges.

Avoid unapproved cleaners and conditioners

Household dish soap, vinegar, alcohol, bleach, oils, waxes and multipurpose sprays are not safe for every leather finish. Use a product only if the furniture maker approves it for that specific material and follow its directions.

Know when to seek specialist help

Colour transfer, cracks, peeling coating, ink, dye transfer, persistent odour or watermarks may require leather restoration advice. Cleaning cannot repair worn pigment, finish damage or structural furniture problems.

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FAQ

FAQs

Everything about bookings, coverage and what to expect.

No. Leather and synthetic finishes vary; check the item's care instructions and compatible product guidance.

Only if the furniture maker recommends conditioning for that material and finish.

No. Cleaning cannot restore worn coating, cracking or permanent colour change.