How to Clean a Leather Sofa without Damaging It? Grandma’s Tips and Tricks

If you have a beautiful leather sofa, you need to know how to maintain it. To ensure that the leather is not damaged during the cleaning process, there are a few things you need to know first. Are you one of those people who only clean their leather sofa with a wet wipe? You need to put an end to this habit. Wet wipes damage the leather and change its finish. On the other hand, if you soak a towel in water and start cleaning your sofa, you will get the same result. Leather should not be cleaned with a large amount of water… How do you clean a leather sofa, then?

How to Clean a Leather Sofa – Grandma’s Trick

Many people think that leather sofas are difficult to clean. I have a friend who sold his leather couch for next to nothing because the cleaning company told him they couldn’t clean it entirely… I always roll my eyes at that exact moment because a leather sofa is actually easier to clean than other sofas. All it takes is the right approach! Below, we’ll look at four ways to do just that, and later, how to remove tough stains from a leather sofa.

Dishwashing Liquid and Water: Leather Cleaner

This is the least abrasive method and one of the most effective when it comes to cleaning. Many of us think it takes chemicals to get perfectly clean leather. In reality, you need the bare minimum and you don’t need to spend too much on chemicals. Simply mix dishwashing liquid and lukewarm water in a bowl, then take a microfiber cloth, dampen it (make sure it’s not soaked!) and run the damp cloth over the entire surface. Repeat and finish by wiping the leather with a dry cloth.

How to Clean a Leather Sofa with White Vinegar?

White vinegar is an essential product in every home. You need to repeat the process described above, but adding white vinegar to a bowl of water. Once again, dampen a microfiber cloth with the vinegar and water solution and start cleaning in circular motions. Remember to dampen the cloth frequently and go around the surface. Let it dry or take a dry cloth and go over the surface.

Baking Soda: Yes or No?

Like white vinegar, baking soda is essential for cleaning. You may think it will be too harsh for the leather surface and will damage it. And you might be right… Generally, a lot of people recommend this method, but after going through different forums on the internet, I found that most of the time people damage the leather. I advise you to avoid this product…

Baby Milk for Cleaning Leather

Baby milk and even cleansing milk can indeed clean leather surfaces! However, this method is not very practical. You need to take a cotton pad, put some make-up remover on it and clean with it until it gets dirty. If your couch is big enough, imagine how long it will take to get through it! So, again, I recommend sticking to the first two methods: either dish soap and water, or white vinegar and water.

How to Clean a White Leather Sofa That Has Turned Yellow?

If your white leather sofa has turned yellow, don’t worry! Whether it’s a small stain or the entire surface, you can bring it back to life! To remove the yellow stain, you can use baking soda (only on a small area and with care) and water. You can also try rubbing the stain with a solution of water and vinegar. Another method, quite harsh, but effective, is to apply toothpaste to a soft-bristled brush and gently scrub the stain. Use a damp cloth to remove the residue. Your white sofa will no longer be yellow!

Also read: Post New Years Eve Cleaning Checklist to Get the House in Order Easily

How to Clean a Very Dirty Leather Sofa?

If you notice that your pants have stained your brand new leather sofa, don’t worry. To remove the stain, you can also try the methods above, but I recommend using Clorox wipes or saddle soap. Both work wonders! Just make sure you’re gentle on the leather.

Also read: How to Clean Leather Furniture and Retain its Perfect Look?