One of the hottest trends in the home furnishing industry is intensely colored leather. Before you ask the anticipated question, “Where did you find a cow that color?” be assured that it is just a dye, just as with more natural colors.
It is striking to enter a room that is anchored with an emerald green leather ottoman or a teal leather chair, and the pieces provide a powerful intrigue to the space.
Although leather is easily maintained and has superior durability compared to many other upholstery materials, leather furniture care is still required to ensure its longevity.
Whether the source of your leather piece is a traditional brown cow or one of the “newer green, red and blue cows,” the first thing to do is to protect it from the UV rays of the sun. It is always good to start by closing the drapes. If they are properly lined and interlined, the drapery will block the UV rays which are so damaging to hardwood, carpet and fabrics as well as leather furnishings.
Tinting the windows is the first line of defense if treatments are stationary or not appropriate for a window. In addition, dry rooms can cause leather to dry out and lose its supple nature. Leather furnishings should be placed at least six inches away from any continuous heat source.
Since leather is a product of nature, it has unique qualities and properties all its own as well as a rich look and touch of luxury. Over time, the aging of the leather brings out the natural patina so the more you use your furniture the more beautiful it becomes!
Maintaining is really quite basic:
Never use solvents, furniture polish, abrasive cleaners or any other type of chemical product.
With normal usage, a simple maintenance routine of regularly dusting with a dry cloth and vacuuming in crevices is adequate. Use a leather conditioner every six months to a year.
Gently rub with your finger tips or buff with a damp chamois cloth to work out and repair scratches.
Leather is very kid friendly – Juicy Juice spills should be wiped with a clean cloth as soon as possible, but liquid should not create any lasting damage.
If you have a stain that is persistent, have a leather furniture care specialist treat professionally.