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Myths About Leather Furniture

Fact or Fiction?

The Whole Truth (and nothing but) About Leather Furniture

If you’re like most consumers, when it comes to the final decision-making process, there may be some last-minute doubts about what furniture is best for you and your home. And if you’re considering leather furniture, you may have some questions about how leather differs from fabric.

So, high-end furnishings retailer Furniture Direct (www.FurnitureOfAmerica.com) confronts some of the most common myths and misperceptions about leather furniture. Here are the facts that will have you making your next purchase in complete confidence.

Myth: Leather furniture just doesn’t last!

Fact: The fact is, leather furniture is something you buy for a lifetime. Since leather is a natural product, aging brings out its natural patina, making it even more beautiful over time. And since leather furniture is something you can enjoy for years to come, this is a purchase that makes a sound investment –– one that gives you excellent returns, time and time again.

Myth: Leather furniture is only for the rich!

Fact: Even though leather furniture brings your home a rich look and feel, you don’t have to be rich to enjoy leather furniture – just smart. Because leather furniture lasts so much longer than fabric, in the long run, it’s a better value. In fact, leather wears in, fabric wears out – so go ahead, looking like a million bucks was never so easy.

Myth: Leather furniture is too hard to care for!

Fact: This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Just use a conditioner every 6-12 months and wipe up spills as they occur with a clean cloth. You should actually avoid using your normal cleaning supplies - like soaps, detergents, solvents, etc. Can it get any easier than that?

Myth: Leather furniture is easily damaged by animals and kids!

Fact: Unless your dog thinks your new leather couch is a chew toy or your cat thinks it’s a scratching post, your leather furniture is as safe as any other furniture in the house. For more peace of mind, select a protected leather for your furniture, which has an extra finish applied to it. This helps protect the leather so you can let your pets and your kids sit on the couch with none of the usual worries.

Myth: Leather furniture is either too cold in winter or too hot in summer!

Fact: You must be thinking about those leather seats in your car, which of course get hot in summer and cold in winter. But if you keep your leather furniture indoors like most folks (trendsetters beware!), you’ll find that in the winter, it warms to your body heat, and in the summer, since it’s natural and can breathe, it stays pleasantly cool. Just keep it out of the sun (which is hard on the color, too).

Leather Care Made Easy

Now with spring cleaning in the air, local retailer Furniture Direct offers some tips and tricks for keeping leather furniture beautiful and carefree for many years to come. (Please also refer to the care instructions provided for the specific type of leather you purchase).

Under normal usage/conditions, regular dry-cloth dusting and vacuum cleaning in crevices or along the bottom is all that is necessary to clean your furniture.

The use of a good leather conditioner is recommended every 6-12 months.

Protect your furniture from sun and direct light. Like any upholstery material, leather can fade to some degree if exposed to the sun.

Suggested Methods of Cleaning:

Always try any cleaning method in a hidden area first to convince yourself of the results!

For minor spots and spills, wipe up any excess liquid immediately with a clean absorbent cloth or sponge. If necessary, use a lightly moistened soft cloth with clean lukewarm water, and let it air dry naturally. If water is used, clean the entire area where the spot occurred.

Do not use soap or soak the stain heavily with water. This may cause more damage than the stain itself.

Do not use cleaning solvents, furniture polish, oils, varnish, abrasive cleaners, detergent soaps or ammonia water.

For butter, oil, or grease stains, wipe off excess with a clean dry cloth, and then leave alone as the spot should dissipate into the leather after a short period of time.

If the stain persists, it is recommended that a professional leather specialist clean the leather to avoid any potential damage to the leather itself.

For minor or slight scratches on the surface, use a chamois or clean fingers to gently buff the scratch. If needed, moisten lightly with distilled water to work scratches out.

Remember that leather is a natural product and requires some care to maintain the natural beauty of the hide.