Leather Sofas FAQ

Owning a leather sofa sometimes feels like less of a possession than a committment. What with all the various types of leather on the market, along with separate instructions for maintaining each one, it's easy to get confused when it comes to knowing what to buy or knowing how to care for what you have. This FAQ guide to leather sofas is designed to help.

Q: Can I pre-treat my leather sofa to prevent stains?
The answer to this depends largely on what type of sofa you have. In general, yes, leather sofas can be pre-treated; but pay attention to the type of leather you're dealing with and make sure the stain treatment you choose is designed for that material. You don't want to destroy the color or texture of your leather with the wrong stain fighter.

Q: Can I clean my leather sofa at home?
While pure aniline and naked leather require special handling, other types of treated leather sofas can certainly be cleaned at home. Contrary to popular belief, saddle soap is not a good choice for cleaning leather sofas. Buy a commercial leather sofa cleaner and follow the instructions carefully, or simply wipe the sofa with a mild soap and water solution and dry with a soft cloth.

Q: How long will my leather sofa last?
The answer to this is subjective, of course, depending on how well you maintain your sofa; but leather upholstery in general can easily last for 30 years or more.

Q: What type of construction should I look for in a leather sofa?
Because you want your piece to last, it's important that it be constructed well from the inside out. Look for a kiln-dried hardwood frame or other type of strong material as the backbone of the sofa. Check to make sure all pieces are bolted together securely. You want to make sure the frame of your sofa will last at least as long as the leather does.