A leather sofa is comfortable and durable, but every day it faces crumbs, spilt drinks, cats' claws and children with felt-tip pens. In winter radiators dry the air, and neglected leather dulls and cracks.
A few simple habits keep a sofa looking good for many years: regular cleaning, quick action on stains, conditioning the leather and looking after the mechanism.
What you will need
Important: Use WD-40 on leather only as a spot treatment and only after testing a hidden area, such as low down at the back. Do not use it on pale, aniline or unfinished leather or on suede. Apply grease to the mechanism so that none reaches the upholstery.
Step 1
Everyday stain protection
The main rule: deal with any stain immediately, before it soaks into the leather. Blot spills with a dry tissue without rubbing. Keep leather furniture wipes within reach.
If you have pets, cover their favourite spot with a throw: claw scratches are much harder to fix than dirt.
Step 2
Regular cleaning
Once a week vacuum the seams and gaps between cushions with a soft nozzle and wipe the surface with a barely damp microfibre cloth. Once a month use a leather furniture cleaner, working in sections and drying each one straight away.
Step 3
Remove pen and marker marks
Fresh ballpoint and marker marks often respond to WD-40 Multi-Use. After testing a hidden spot, apply a drop with the WD-40 Smart Straw or a cotton bud directly to the mark, wait a minute and blot with clean microfibre from the edges inwards. Repeat if needed.
Afterwards always wipe the area with leather cleaner to remove any residue.
Step 4
Condition the leather
Every 2-3 months, and more often in winter when the air is dry, apply a thin layer of leather cream or balm and spread it with microfibre. The leather stays supple, does not crack on seats and arms, and absorbs less dirt.
Place the sofa at least a metre away from radiators and out of direct sunlight.
Step 5
Lubricate the folding mechanism
If the sofa folds out or reclines, its metal hinges eventually squeak and stiffen. Vacuum the mechanism, apply WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease precisely to the pivots and hinges, and open and close the sofa a few times. Wipe off any excess immediately so it does not mark the upholstery.
Tip: Never use cleaners containing ammonia, bleach or abrasives on leather, and avoid steam: they destroy the protective top coat and the leather starts to crack.
What next
Vacuum and damp-wipe weekly, use leather cleaner monthly, condition every season and lubricate the mechanism once a year. For leather jackets and bags, see our other guides.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».