How to Clean Italian Leather
Using white vinegar with linseed oil is an excellent way to clean and prepare leather. If you’re looking for an extra-shiny finish, you can also add glycerin to the mix. Simply dip a soft cloth into the mixture and rub it on the leather in circular motions. Then, wipe off the excess liquid and let the leather air dry before using it. These methods remove dirt and prepare the leather for future use.
Avoid humid, moist, or hot conditions
While Italian leather is durable, improper care can damage the material. It can become brittle and crack if improper cleaning methods or harsh chemicals are used. It is also susceptible to sunlight which can fade the color or crack it. To prevent this, Italian leather furniture should be rotated to receive equal sunlight exposure. Furthermore, it should not be kept near hot or humid areas as this will dry it out.
Avoid DIY leather cleaning solutions
You may want to make DIY leather cleaning solutions, but you should be aware of the risks involved. Some household products can be harsh on leather and can even worsen stains. For example, fingernail polish remover is a popular DIY solution, but it contains acetone and alcohol, which can bleach the leather.
Avoid toothpaste
If you’re looking for a safe way to clean your Italian leather sofa, you should avoid toothpaste. Toothpaste is an abrasive agent that can damage the leather’s color. Instead, try an olive oil and vinegar solution in a spray bottle. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, which can also damage your leather.
Avoid greasy food
When cleaning your Italian leather furniture, be sure to avoid greasy foods. It is recommended to use a neutral pH cleaner to avoid damaging the surface of your leather. You should also avoid alcohol, which can pull out moisture from the leather. Also, avoid using high-pH cleaners.
Avoid ink spots
In order to avoid ink spots, clean your leather using a non-abrasive cleaning agent. A white rag is the best choice for this task, as colored rags can transfer the dye and damage your leather. Also, make sure to avoid harsh solvent-based cleaners, as they will spread the damage even more.
Avoid scuffs
When cleaning Italian leather, it’s important to use a mild, non-detergent cleaner. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the leather. You can also use toothpaste to remove stains and scuffs.
Avoid oil
When cleaning Italian leather, it’s best to use a non-oily liquid. Then, use a rag to apply the mixture in a circular motion. This will help to remove larger stains and scuffs. Once you’ve finished cleaning the leather, lightly dampen it with another rag. Avoid rubbing too hard, as this could cause the leather to become damaged.
Avoid vinegar
When cleaning leather furniture, avoid using harsh cleansers such as ammonia. This can damage the leather and leave stubborn stains. Instead, use a mixture of white vinegar and water. This solution will remove the stain and dry out the leather. Make sure that you test the solution on a hidden part of the leather before applying it to the entire piece.
