Leather furniture is naturally very easy to keep clean and looking sharp. When your leather furniture pieces experience normal use, they should only require a light dusting or wipe with a dry, soft cloth on an as needed basis. Similarly, leather pieces should only need to be cleaned or conditioned with professional leather products once every six months. However, as we all know, accidents can happen. Here are ten tips to help you prepare for when they do:

Minor accidents:

1. Wipe spills up immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth to prevent liquids from being absorbed into the leather.
2. Remove any remaining spillage marks with lukewarm water and let your newly cleaned area air-dry.
3. Whenever possible, avoid spot washing. If you need to use water, wash the entire section of furniture (i.e. whole cushions.)
4. Never use household appliances to dry spills or washed areas. This may dry out leather and promote cracking.

Major accidents:

1. Never use household cleaners to clean stains from your leather furniture. This may result in the discoloring or cracking of the item.
2. If a stain requires more than lukewarm water, use a professional leather care product.
3. Never apply any cleaning product directly to the leather. Apply first to a clean, soft cloth and then gently apply to furniture.

Oil-based spots and stains:

1. Gently wipe away salad dressings, dips and butter from furniture and let the stain air dry. Do not apply water.

General maintenance:

1. Avoid placing leather furniture in direct sunlight or in close proximity to fireplaces or wood burning stoves. These environments may promote the leather to dry out and potentially crack.
2. Protect against scratches and cuts to the leather by keeping pets and sharp objects away from the furniture.

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