Leather Furniture Care: How To Protect Your Investment
Matt Trostle
For centuries leather has been used for its functionality as
well as its prestige. Back in the dark ages, hides were being
used for warmth and protection in the form of crude coats and
makeshift shoes. In those times, leather decay would begin
after only a short time making for a very inefficient process.
Today we have perfected the tanning process making leather the
strongest and longest lasting upholstery material. Most
reputable leather furniture companies use leather that has been
preserved in the tanning process. Properly tanned leather can
last up to four times longer than most any other upholstery
fabric. Given its durability and the pure elegance of leather
furniture, you can most assuredly be prepared to spend a bit
more for it. The good news is leather requires very little
care.
Here are some important steps you can take to help protect your
leather furniture:
Probably the most important thing to remember is to clean
stains immediately! If you do not, the stain can reappear weeks
or months later. Just use mild soap and warm water.
Keep your furniture away from heat sources. At least two feet
is recommended. Leather can become dried out if exposed for
long periods.
Avoid direct sunlight. This will prevent fading.
To dust use a clean cloth with a small amount of leather
cleaner.
Never use saddle soap, furniture polish, oil, varnish, abrasive
or ammonia based cleansers.
All leather furniture needs reconditioning on a regular basis.
This process replaces the natural hide oils that dry out and
cause the leather to crack.
Please note the above is for preventative maintenance and you
may have a specific problem which may call for more action.
Cleaning leather furniture can be tricky and you should always
do a spot test to check for color fastness. If it is something
major like scrapes, cuts, holes or grease and oil stains it is
recommended that you seek professional assistance.
Take the time to get to know your furniture. Look for
differences in grade of leather, type of dye and finishing.
Your furniture retailer should be able to supply you with this
information. If you take care of your leather furniture, it
will last at least 20 years.
About The Author: Great Priced Furniture
http://www.greatpricedfurniture.com/, North Carolina's largest
online furniture store has built a solid reputation by offering
a wide range of brand name leather furniture
http://www.greatpricedfurniture.com/categories/203-200/index.html.
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