How To Clean Leather Sofa Sets: Your Handy Guide

There’s nothing quite like the timeless charm of a leather sofa. Whether it’s the centrepiece of your living room or a cosy spot to unwind after a long day, leather furniture brings elegance and comfort into your home. But as stylish as it looks, it does require the right care to keep it looking its best.

In this handy guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about cleaning leather sofa sets properly, including step-by-step cleaning methods, tips for tough stain removal, and how much time you’ll realistically need to refresh your sofa.

Know the Type of Leather Your Sofa Has

Understanding your leather type is the first step in proper care. Each kind of leather furniture reacts differently to cleaning methods, so knowing what you’re working with helps prevent damage and ensures the right approach to cleaning leather safely and effectively.

Bonded Leather

Bonded leather is made by blending leather scraps with synthetic materials and bonding them with adhesives. While it resembles real leather, it's more delicate and prone to peeling or cracking over time.

Avoid abrasive cleaners when cleaning a bonded leather sofa. Instead, use a gentle soap and a soft cloth. Do not use excessive water or scrub too hard; gently wipe the entire surface instead.

Faux Leather

Also known as PU leather, faux leather sofas are made entirely from synthetic materials. These are more resistant to stains and water than natural leather but still require care. To clean your leather (or, in this case, faux leather), use a microfiber cloth dampened with a mild soap solution.

Avoid harsh chemicals and thoroughly dry the surface with a dry cloth to prevent water damage and preserve the protective coating.

Genuine Leather

Genuine leather furniture is made from real animal hide and is typically more durable and breathable. However, it also absorbs liquids more easily.

To clean genuine leather furniture, use a specialised leather cleaner and regularly apply a leather conditioner to retain its natural oils and prevent cracking or peeling. Avoid excess moisture, and always use a dry microfiber cloth after cleaning.

Nubuck Leather

Nubuck is top-grain leather that has been sanded to produce a soft, velvety texture. This type of leather surface is very delicate and absorbs stains quickly. Cleaning should be minimal and always done with a soft brush attachment or dry cloth.

Avoid liquid-based cleaning products; consult a professional cleaning service if stubborn stains appear. Use a protective barrier spray to minimise damage and maintain its luxurious feel.

Know the Finish of Your Leather Sofa

The finish on your leather couch acts as a protective layer, determining how well it resists stains, spills, and wear.

Different finishes need different cleaning approaches, so identifying yours is crucial, especially if you own larger pieces like an L-shaped sofa, which may have multiple surface areas exposed to daily use.

Aniline Finish

Aniline leather is the most natural-looking leather, coloured only with transparent dyes. It lacks a protective coating, making it susceptible to light and tough stains.

To care for aniline leather, avoid abrasive materials and stick to gentle dusting with a soft cloth. For spills, gently blot with a dry cloth, never rub, and never use harsh chemicals.

Semi-Aniline Finish

Semi-aniline leather combines the natural beauty of aniline with a slight protective coating, giving it better resistance to wear and moisture.

You can safely clean your leather with a mild soap and damp cloth, followed by drying with a dry microfiber cloth. This type of leather balances durability with softness and is common in modern leather furniture.

Pigmented Finish

Pigmented leather is coated with colour pigments and a polymer layer, making it the most durable finish. It resists stains and scratches well, making it ideal for families with kids or pets.

Use a leather cleaner or mild dish soap with a clean cloth in circular motions to wipe the entire surface. For best results, follow with a leather conditioner. Avoid rubbing alcohol or any abrasive cleaners.

What You Need To Clean Your Leather Sofa

When cleaning leather furniture, have the right cleaning supplies on hand. Using the proper materials can protect the leather surface, preserve its natural look, and prevent premature damage. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Use a vacuum with a gentle brush head to lift away dust, dirt, and small bits from the surface and crevices

• A microfiber cloth or soft cloth for wiping down the entire surface

• A damp cloth slightly moistened with a mild soap solution

• Mild dish soap, just a few drops mixed with water

• A dry microfiber cloth for wiping away excess moisture after cleaning

• Specialised leather cleaner for genuine leather furniture or when dealing with stubborn stains

• Leather conditioner to apply leather conditioner and restore natural oils and suppleness

What You Don’t Need To Clean Your Leather Sofa

While grabbing whatever is under the kitchen sink might be tempting, many household cleaning products can do more harm than good. Avoid the following:

• Harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or strong all-purpose cleaners

• Abrasive materials such as scrub brushes, steel wool, or rough sponges

• Too much water or excessive moisture can cause mould or warp the leather surface

• Steam cleaning, which may damage faux leather and bonded leather

• Excessive heat or drying with hair dryers

• Synthetic materials that may react with leather finishes

Steps To Clean Your Leather Sofa

Maintaining a spotless leather couch doesn’t require fancy tools, just the right technique. Follow these steps for regular cleaning:

Step 1: Vacuum the Sofa

Start using your vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs, or dirt. Be sure to review the seams and corners carefully, as these spots collect the most debris.

Step 2: Wipe with a Damp Cloth

Moisten a microfiber or soft cloth with a mild soap solution from a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently wipe the leather surface in circular motions.

Step 3: Dry Immediately

Right after wiping, take a dry microfiber cloth and cover the entire area to soak up any excess moisture. Don’t let it air dry completely, as this could cause the leather to crack over time.

Step 4: Use a Specialised Leather Cleaner

Apply a specialised leather cleaner if your sofa is heavily soiled or if you're cleaning genuine leather furniture. Always test on a small area first.

Step 5: Apply Leather Conditioner

Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a leather conditioner to keep it supple, prevent cracking or peeling, and maintain its luxurious feel.

Removing Challenging Stains

Some messes require extra care. Here’s how to handle the most common tough stains without damaging your leather sofa.

Mould

To treat mould:

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar

• Lightly dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently blot the mouldy area

• Dry thoroughly with a dry cloth

• Follow up with a leather conditioner

Always air out the room to avoid damp, enclosed areas that allow mould to thrive.

Oil or Grease

Blot the stain immediately with a dry microfiber cloth—never rub. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot to absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few hours, then gently vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Finish by gently wiping with a damp cloth and drying thoroughly.

Ink or Wine

These stubborn stains need quick attention. Dab the spot lightly with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, being careful not to spread the stain.

Once the ink lifts, gently blot with a dry cloth and apply leather conditioner. For wine, immediately gently blot the area and consult a professional cleaning service if the stain persists.

Spot-Cleaning Your Leather Sofa

Even with the best care, accidents happen. That’s where spot-cleaning your leather sofa comes in. For light stains like food smudges or drink spills, it’s best to act quickly to prevent them from becoming stubborn.

Use a microfiber or soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution—just a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water will do. Gently blot the stain rather than scrubbing it.

Then, dry the area with a dry microfiber cloth to avoid excess moisture seeping into the leather surface. Spot-cleaning faux leather sofas should be done with extra care since synthetic materials may react differently to moisture and pressure. Always test the solution on a hidden area first.

Deep-Cleaning Your Leather Sofa

Regular wipes are great, but now and then, your leather sofa needs a deep clean to keep it fresh and well-kept. Begin using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any dust and dirt hiding in the seams.

Then, apply a leather cleaner that suits your sofa’s material, whether genuine leather, bonded leather, or PU leather, so you can clean it thoroughly without causing damage.

Apply the product using circular motions with a soft or microfiber cloth, and ensure you treat the entire surface evenly. Once clean, go over the sofa with a dry cloth to remove any soap residue or excess moisture, and finish with a layer of leather conditioner to replenish natural oils.

Conditioning Your Leather Sofa

Regular conditioning is one of the best ways to prevent your leather sofa from cracking or peeling. Genuine leather can dry out over time, especially if exposed to heat or cleaned without proper care.

To condition it, take a soft cloth and gently rub a small amount of leather conditioner into the surface using circular motions. This helps the leather stay smooth, nourished, and looking its best.

Let it absorb for a few minutes, then buff gently with a dry microfiber cloth. This will maintain a protective layer on the sofa and restore its natural shine.

Polishing Your Leather Sofa

While not necessary for all finishes, polishing can enhance the appearance of pigmented or semi-aniline leather. Use only products approved for leather care, avoiding wax-based or silicone-heavy formulas that can clog the pores of the leather surface.

When To Clean Your Leather Sofa

Understanding the right cleaning frequency is essential for maintaining leather furniture without causing damage from over-cleaning or neglect.

Challenging Stains: Immediately

Clean your leather sofa immediately for tough stains like ink, wine, or grease. Delaying may cause the stain to set, making stain removal more difficult or impossible without professional cleaning.

Dusting: Weekly

Gentle dusting with a dry microfiber cloth once a week removes surface dirt, prevents grime build-up, and helps protect the sofa's protective coating.

Deep Cleaning and Conditioning: Yearly

Plan for deep cleaning and leather conditioning at least once a year to keep your sofa in optimal shape. However, if you own a light-coloured sofa, it’s best to do this twice yearly due to the higher visibility of light stains and dirt.

How Much Time You Need for Cleaning

Knowing how much time you need to clean a leather sofa helps you plan effectively and ensures you give your furniture the care it deserves.

• Regular cleaning, such as gentle dusting and spot-cleaning, typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the entire surface area. This involves using a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust, then wiping with a damp cloth and dry microfiber cloth.

• Deep cleaning, which includes using a specialised leather cleaner, conditioning, and polishing, takes 45 to 60 minutes. It’s a more detailed cleaning process involving multiple steps: applying a mild soap solution, wiping down with a clean cloth, drying, and applying and buffing leather conditioner.

Set aside time for this regular maintenance. Doing it properly is better than rushing and risking excessive moisture, missed spots, or even damage due to abrasive materials.

Keep Your Leather Sofa Looking New

Proper care goes beyond just knowing how to clean leather sofa surfaces. Implementing good habits in maintaining leather furniture is key to preserving its look and quality over time.

Whether you’ve bought your piece from a high-end boutique or a trusted sofa furniture shop, how you care for it at home makes all the difference.

Cover Your Sofa

Use a protective layer like a cotton throw or custom cover when not in use, especially during travel or renovations. This guards against dust, spills, and direct sunlight.

Fluff Your Sofa

Fluffing the cushions regularly helps faux and genuine leather sofas maintain their shape. It also prevents wrinkles and uneven wear on the leather surface.

Avoid Heat and Sunlight

Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat, as they can dry out the leather and cause fading, cracking, and peeling. Position your sofa away from windows, radiators, or air-conditioning units.

Avoid Damp, Enclosed Areas

Placing a leather couch in a damp environment risks mould growth. Ensure your room is well-ventilated. Using a dehumidifier can help if your home is prone to humidity.

Avoid Contact With Sharp Objects

Scratches from buckles, zippers, keys, or toys can easily mar the leather surface. Avoid sharp objects and remind family members to be cautious when using the sofa.

Consider Your Pets

Pet claws can damage leather furniture, and oils from their fur may cause stubborn stains. Lay a washable cover or pet blanket on their favourite spots, and clean these areas more frequently.

Mind the Manufacturer

Each leather type may require different care. Always check and follow the manufacturer’s care instructions before using any cleaning products, leather cleaner, or leather conditioner.

Know When To Leave Cleaning to the Pros

Opt for professional cleaning for tough stains like ink, paint, or severe water damage, or if you're unsure how to clean a leather surface safely. Experts use tools and cleaning supplies that protect your furniture’s protective barrier and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

Keeping your leather sofa looking its best doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach, care, and consistency, you can maintain its comfort and style for many years. Whether dealing with everyday dust or tackling stubborn stains, knowing how to clean leather sofa sets properly makes all the difference. Find your dream leather sofa, stylish furniture pieces, and inspiration at Novena today.