How to Clean and Maintain Your Leather Sofa at Home

There’s nothing quite like the luxurious look and feel of a leather sofa. It adds elegance, warmth, and timeless appeal to your living space. But with great style comes great responsibility. Without proper care, leather can crack, fade, or lose its shine over time. The good news? Maintaining your leather sofa is easier than you think—all it takes is consistency and the right approach.

Whether you’ve recently invested in a high-end piece or want to extend the life of your current leather sofa Singapore style, this guide will show you how to clean and care for it the right way.

Why Leather Sofas Need Special Attention

Unlike fabric upholstery, leather is natural and breathable. It can absorb spills, react to heat, and show signs of aging if not treated well. But with regular care, it not only lasts for decades but actually looks better as it ages.

Types of Leather and What That Means for Maintenance

Before you dive into cleaning, it’s important to know what kind of leather you have:

Aniline Leather: Very natural, soft, and luxurious. Absorbs moisture easily. Needs gentle care.

Semi-Aniline Leather: Slightly protected. More durable than aniline but still needs care.

Pigmented Leather (Protected): Common in most leather sofa Singapore homes. Durable and easier to maintain.

Check your manufacturer’s label if unsure—using the wrong product can damage your sofa.

Daily and Weekly Maintenance Tips

1. Dust Regularly

Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe your sofa. This prevents dirt from settling into the grain and causing discoloration.

2. Vacuum the Creases

Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to remove crumbs, dust, or pet hair stuck in the corners and crevices.

3. Avoid Direct Sunlight

Leather can fade or crack when exposed to strong sunlight. Keep your sofa away from direct sun or use curtains/blinds to protect it.

4. Fluff and Rotate Cushions

If your sofa has loose cushions, rotate and fluff them regularly to avoid uneven wear.

How to Clean Your Leather Sofa

Step 1: Spot Clean Spills Immediately

Blot (don’t rub) spills using a clean dry cloth. Avoid water or harsh cleaners unless recommended.

Step 2: Use a Damp Cloth

For regular cleaning, dampen a cloth with distilled water and gently wipe down the surface. Avoid soaking the leather.

Step 3: Apply Leather Cleaner

Use a leather-specific cleaner every 1–2 months. Test on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor your sofa.

Step 4: Condition the Leather

After cleaning, apply a quality leather conditioner to keep it soft and supple. This prevents cracking and maintains shine.

Pro Tip: Never use regular soap, baby wipes, or alcohol-based cleaners—they can dry out or stain your sofa.

How to Treat Stains on Leather Sofas

Grease or Oil: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch, let it sit, then brush off gently.

Ink Stains: Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, dab gently, and wipe clean.

Water Stains: Let them dry naturally—do not use heat or a hairdryer.

Always follow up with conditioner after spot treatments.

Do’s and Don’ts for Leather Sofa Care

Do’s

Do use leather-specific products.

Do dust and vacuum weekly.

Do keep it away from heaters and vents.

Do apply conditioner every few months.

Don’t scrub hard or use abrasive cloths.

Don’t use ammonia, bleach, or harsh chemicals.

Don’t ignore spills or stains for too long.

Don’t leave it exposed to sharp objects or pets’ claws.

Bonus: Leather Sofa Care in Singapore’s Humid Climate

In a humid place like Singapore, mold and mildew can be a concern. Here’s how to tackle it:

Use a dehumidifier in rooms with leather furniture.

Wipe with a dry cloth regularly to prevent moisture buildup.

Keep air circulating—open windows or use fans when possible.

Buying a leather sofa Singapore residents love means choosing durability, but even tropical weather needs a bit of extra care.

When to Call in the Professionals

If your leather sofa has deep scratches, heavy staining, or mold that won’t go away—don’t try to DIY it. Call in a leather cleaning specialist to restore it professionally.

Conclusion

Your leather sofa is more than just a place to sit—it’s a statement piece that deserves care and attention. With simple routines like regular dusting, the right cleaning products, and mindful placement, you can extend the life of your sofa and keep it looking stunning for years. Whether you're enjoying a stylish leather sofa Singapore apartment vibe or a cozy family space, proper maintenance keeps comfort and elegance alive.