A good leather sofa needs very little upkeep, but the few things it does need matter. This guide covers cleaning, conditioning and the mistakes that shorten a sofa's life. Start by finding out which leather you have, because genuine, top-grain and faux leather are cared for differently.
First, know your leather type
Every leather listing at Revel Sofa names the leather type in the product title. Check it before you clean anything.
- Genuine and top-grain leather is real hide. It can be cleaned gently and conditioned.
- Faux leather (PU or bonded) is a coated material. It wipes clean easily, but it should not be oiled or conditioned.
If you are unsure, check the product page or call us at (628) 277-8959, any day 8am to 6pm PST.
Genuine vs. faux leather at a glance
| Genuine or top-grain leather | Faux leather (PU or bonded) | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Real hide | Coated synthetic material |
| Weekly care | Dry microfiber wipe or soft-brush vacuum | Same |
| Deeper cleaning | Mild soap in distilled water, barely damp cloth | Same method |
| Conditioning | Once or twice a year with a furniture leather conditioner | Never. Skip conditioners and oils |
| Scratches | Claws and sharp objects can scratch it | Keep sharp objects and pet claws away |
| Long-term wear | Softens and ages with care | Coating can wear or peel and cannot be repaired |
Weekly: dust and wipe
Dust wears down leather finishes over time. Once a week, wipe the sofa with a soft, dry microfiber cloth, or run a vacuum with a soft brush attachment along the seams and under the cushions.
Spills: blot right away
Blot liquids with a clean, dry cloth as soon as they land. Press, do not rub, because rubbing pushes the spill deeper and can spread it. Let the spot air dry. Do not use a hair dryer.
Deeper cleaning every few months
- Mix a few drops of mild, unscented soap into a cup of distilled water.
- Dampen a soft cloth with it. It should be barely damp, never wet.
- Wipe the surface in gentle sections, following the grain.
- Go over it with a second cloth dampened with plain distilled water.
- Dry with a soft towel and let the sofa air dry.
Test any cleaner on a hidden spot first, such as the back or underside.
Conditioning real leather
Genuine and top-grain leather dries out and can crack if it is never conditioned. Once or twice a year, apply a thin layer of a leather conditioner made for furniture, following the product directions, and buff off any excess. Skip this step on faux leather.
What to avoid
- Bleach, ammonia, alcohol, nail polish remover and all-purpose sprays
- Baby wipes and household wipes, which can leave residue or strip the finish
- Soaking the leather with water
- Direct sun for long periods, which fades and dries leather
- Placing the sofa right against a heater or vent, so leave a little space
Everyday habits that help
- Keep sharp objects, keys and pet claws away from the surface.
- Rotate seat cushions if yours are removable.
- Sit on it. Leather that is used regularly stays supple.
Ink, grease and stubborn marks
Do not rub ink or grease stains, and do not reach for a solvent. Blot what you can, then contact a professional leather cleaner. Guessing with the wrong product often makes the mark permanent.
Faux leather notes
Faux leather is easy to keep clean with the weekly wipe and the soap-and-water method above. Over many years the surface coating can wear or peel, and this cannot be repaired the way real leather can, so avoid harsh cleaners and heat to extend its life.
Shopping for a leather sofa?
Browse our leather sofas and use the product title to see which leather type each piece uses. Comparing leather with fabric? Read how to choose sofa upholstery, and see our fabric care guide if you own other upholstered pieces. Not sure which style fits your room? Take the 2-minute sofa quiz.