How Do I Make My Leather Sofa Look New Again?

Most of our clients who visit our showroom often ask: how do I make my leather sofa look new again?

Leather sofas are a timeless and classic addition to any home, offering comfort and style. If you're wondering how to restore your leather sofa to its glory, you've come to the right place.

In this blog, we'll explore various techniques to help you make your leather sofa look new again. From cleaning and conditioning, we'll cover all the tips and tricks you need to know to breathe new life into your beloved leather sofas.

Understanding Leather: Types and Characteristics

Leather is one of the most versatile materials on Earth. It has been in use to make clothing, footwear, furniture, and several products for thousands of years. Leather comes from animal skin and is transformed into different types of material, depending on how it's processed. The most commonly used leathers are cowhide, calfskin, sheepskin, and goatskin.

1. Cowhide

The texture of cowhide leather is smooth, soft, and supple. Furniture manufacturers often use cowhide because of its durability and softness. It's easy to clean and does not crack in extreme temperatures.

2. Calfskin

Calfskin leather is a type of leather that comes from a calf. It has a soft texture and is generally considered a more delicate material than other types of leather. Calfskin leather has a natural grain pattern unique to each hide, giving each sofa a one-of-a-kind look.

3. Sheepskin

Sheepskin leather is a type of leather made from the skin of lambs. Leather sofas from sheepskin have a natural sheen that looks beautiful in light-coloured upholstery. Additionally, this type of sofa is naturally hypoallergenic, which means it is unlikely to cause allergic reactions or irritations, making it an ideal material for those with sensitive skin.

4. Goatskin

Goatskin is a material that's used for a variety of products, such as shoes, handbags, and leather sofas. Goatskin leather has a unique feel and appearance in comparison to other leathers. The material has a soft, suede-like feel and a colour that ranges from light tan to dark brown.

Looking for some sofa design inspiration? You're at the right place. Check out our interior design project portfolio and get inspiration from our leather sofa designs.

Reasons for a Leather Sofa’s Wear and Tear

There are many reasons why leather sofas may show signs of usage. Here are a few to take note of:

You're not cleaning your leather sofa properly. Make sure you're using the right products and cleaning them at the right intervals. If you're not, it can cause damage to the leather's fibres, which will eventually lead to tears and other issues.

Moreover, your sofa might not be properly conditioned. If your furniture doesn't get enough attention from regular conditioning, then your sofa won't last as long as it should.

Cleaning Leather: Dos and Don'ts

Regular exposure to contaminants can make leather sofas very dirty. If you're wondering how to clean your leather sofa, here's what you need to know.

Do’s:

1. Wipe up spills with a wet cloth or paper towel. It will be difficult to remove stains if you wait for them to dry before cleaning.

2. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface of your sofa. Without damaging the surface, this will clear away dust and dirt.

Don’ts:

1. Don't use ammonia-based cleaners on your leather sofa, as these can damage the fibres in the leather.

2. Don't use razors or sharp objects on your leather sofa to clean it—you could scratch the surface and cause permanent damage.

Tips for Maintaining the Look of Leather

In addition to our expertise in design and construction, we also know how to keep your leather sofas looking their best. Here are our top tips for maintaining your leather sofas:

• Use the leather protectant advised by the manufacturer to shield the sofa from moisture and humidity, keeping your leather looking newer.
• Buff any scuffs or scratches with a cloth dipped in a leather balm or conditioner. Check out the care guide that comes with your leather sofas.
• Water can cause mildew to form on the surface of your leather sofas, causing them to fade and lose their colour over time. If you get your leather sofa wet, make sure you let them dry completely before using it.

Dark-coloured leather sofas such as the Big Ben Sofa by Naustro Accent Collection and the Longisland Sofa by Naustro Accent Collection benefit from the use of leather conditioners. These conditioners bring out its stunning lustre.

In conclusion

With some patience and effort, you can bring life back to even the most worn-out leather sofas. However, when it comes to leather, it's crucial to remember that prevention is always better than cure. To ensure that your leather items maintain their quality and appearance, always use recommended leather care products and handle them with care.

You can enjoy your leather sofas for years by following our simple advice. If you’re looking for a new leather sofa for your home, we have a solution for your space.

At FCI London, where we’ve been designing contemporary interiors for nearly 40 years. We’re experts in transforming spaces. Visit our showroom or get in touch to see our extensive collection of leather sofas. Our expert design team is ready to help you choose the ideal sofa for your home.