If you own a leather lounge, no doubt you love that wonderful feeling of sinking back into its luxurious softness after the end of a busy day. Leather is also a popular choice for lounges because it is durable, easy to care for, long-lasting and it keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer.
However, over time and with general wear and tear, leather lounges can start to show their age, and damage to a leather lounge can also be caused by a number of factors. Here we look at the top 8 and offer our tips on how to get the most out of your investment.
#1 – Look Out For Punctures
Leather furniture should always be kept well away from sharp objects like belt buckles, scissors and metal rivets on clothing. The claws of your pet can also cause damage, so if they have the luxury of being allowed indoors, you may want to cover your lounge with a throw rug or slipcover.
#2 – Deal With Scratches
Minor scratches need to be removed as soon as possible to prevent them from turning into even bigger ones that can become cracks. Gently buffing with a soft dry cloth like a chamois should help, but if not, moisten a cloth with a bit of distilled water and lightly work the scratches out.
#3 – Avoid Sunlight
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause leather to fade over time. It can also cause lounges to dry out and lead to cracks and other damage. Humidity can cause a lounge to become mouldy or damp, which can result in peeling, cracking and deterioration. Try not to place your couch under windows and close curtains during the day, or angle blinds or louvers so the sun is redirected away from your furniture.
#4 – Keep Away From Heat
Placing your leather lounge near a heater or fireplace can cause damage because the natural fibres will eventually break down. You should place your lounge at least 50 centimetres away from heat sources to help keep the leather supple and prolong its life.
#5 – Wipe Up Spills
Although leather is somewhat resistant to liquids, water damage over the long term can discolour and weaken it. In terms of caring for a leather lounge, you should always deal with minor spots and spills immediately by soaking up any excess liquid with a soft, clean and absorbent sponge or cloth. If necessary, use lukewarm water, clean around the entire area where the spill occurred and let it air dry naturally.
#6 – Remove Dust and Dirt
Dust and dirt can work its way into creases in your lounge and dry it out, which can cause it to crack and become damaged over time. This can be avoided with a regular maintenance routine, including a weekly dust and vacuum. You should also clean your lounge with a just-damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Every six to twelve months it’s also a good idea to condition it with a suitable lounge care product to protect it against damage.
#7 – Use The Right Products
In terms of cleaning a leather lounge, it’s important you use the right products. Solvents, oils, varnish, furniture polish, abrasive cleaners, ammonia water and cleaners made from alcohol can all do serious damage including dissolving the leather itself. If you need to use a detergent, choose a specially-designed leather cleaner. Test it in a hidden area first to see the results, and make sure you follow the instructions carefully!
#8 – Consult The Experts!
If minor damage has occurred that’s beyond repair, then you have options beyond just replacing your lounge. Even badly cracked lounges can be saved, although you will need the services of a professional furniture repairer to assist. Here at Lounge Repair Guys, we can help with issues like mould, deterioration, peeling, fading, stains and damage from pets or children and will restore your beautiful leather furniture to its factory condition!
# 9 – Body sweat and perspiration
Perspiration and oils from our skin and hair contain a high amount of acidity. This acid is known to break down the surface of leather, causing the disintegration of the top layer of the hide. Regular cleaning to remove this acid, at least once a week, is the only way to prevent the build-up of these acids and prolong the life of your leather
Is your favourite leather lounge looking a little worse for wear? Contact the experts at Lounge Repair Guys. We are experts in a variety of furniture repairs and restorations!
