Saturday, November 28, 2009

Can I use hand cream or lotion to condition my leather sofa?

Definitely not, there are oils and waxes in hand creams and lotions that will help attract dirt and oils to your leather and will help destroy the finish.





The only 'conditioner' that leather needs is water (moisture) it does not need any oils replacing as those in the leather are very stable, so by using water based products you keep it in good condition. You do however need to use a protector which will inhibit dirt and oils from being absorbed into the leather.








You need to use a good quality water based foam leather cleaner. Strong cleaner or Maxi Cleaner if it is very dirty. With light coloured leather dye transfer from clothing can be a problem although using a good quality leather protector will help inhibit this.





DO NOT use anything containing oils, waxes or silicones. (Most 'conditioners' contain waxes or oils) and furniture polish contains silicones. Most car cleaners also contain oils or waxes so should not be used as they leave residues on the surface of the leather which attract more dirt.





BABY WIPES are the worst thing you can use as they will destroy the finish on your leather. They are very strong alkiline cleaners to neutralise urine (acid) on babys skin so they are not the right thing to use on leather.





Saddle soap is too harsh to use on todays leathers.





A lot of leather wipes contain chemicals which will also destroy the finish or leave residues on the leather which will damage it. They are not cheap in the long run as you would need a lot to clean.





Fairy liquid contains more salt these days to get dishes clean and this will break the finish down on your leather. This has been verified by the manufacturers (as with the baby wipes).





You should also follow cleaning with a good water based leather protector which will act like a 'scotchgard' and inhibit dirt and stains from being absorbed and make cleaning easier the next time.





Dry leather needs rehydrating with water and oils and waxes should not be used as the natural oils do not dry out of leather. Wiping over with a damp cloth regularly will help to do this.





It is important to maintain a regular cleaning regime cleaning dirt off the surface regularly and inhibiting the absorption of body oils into the leather with a protector is the best way of doing this.





The alternative is a brand new product on the market called Lazy Leather. This is the latest technology in cleaning and combines an effective cleaner with a protector. It is quick and easy to use and should be used as a maintenance product once your suite has been cleaned or from new if you have just bought it.





Using incorrect care products is usually the cause of deterioration in the leather.





Please do not use baby oil!!


Source(s):





www.LTTsolutions.net


Leather care consultants to the furniture and cleaning industriesCan I use hand cream or lotion to condition my leather sofa?
I can suggest you use Saddle Soap , or Natural Beeswax
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