Microfiber & Leather Cleaning Tips

Note: Always check your furniture for specific cleaning instructions before attempting any of the cleaning tips below. We do not guarantee the effectiveness of any of these suggestions and are not responsible for any further damage they may cause. We suggest always testing an inconspicuous spot, like the side of a pillow, before attempting to clean the affected area.

About Microfiber (Jump to Leather)
Microfiber is a synthetic fiber (polyester) that’s much smaller than traditional fibers. Because of the tightness of the fiber weave, microfiber is able to repel water better than many other fabrics.

Spills
Because microfiber repels liquid, spills are usually relatively easy to clean. The key is to absorb as much of the spill as possible before it sets in. Be sure to dab with a cloth. DO NOT rub the spill in as this will make it soak in faster.

Stains
Anything you’d use to clean polyester can also be used to clean microfiber. In many cases you can use household products to clean microfiber.

Soap and Water: On small spots, start with mild soap/laundry detergent and water, and be sure to rinse the soap thoroughly to avoid leaving a mark. Be sure to use small amounts and pat the area dry to avoid water marks.

Home Remedies: If the stain remains or you do leave a water mark, you can use one of the following (just use enough to dampen the fabric and let it thoroughly dry before repeating):

  • Rubbing alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol),
  • Ammonia
  • DO NOT USE: Nail Polish Remover

Mix the above with warm water and a small amount of dishwashing or laundry detergent and brush down with light strokes (we recommend using a toothbrush). Blot occasionally with an absorbent pad. Continue until the stain is removed. Rinse well with water, making sure to remove all traces of the alcohol or ammonia. Allow furniture to dry thoroughly before use.

Store-Bought Cleaners: You can also buy spot cleaner specifically for microfiber at places like Home Depot, but be sure to test an inconspicuous spot before using it on your stain. Mix the cleaner with water and apply with a sponge. Blot dry.

After Cleaning
If the microfiber hardens at all after cleaning, rub it gently with a soft scrub brush or toothbrush.

Smell
To remove odor from microfiber, we recommend using a product like Febreze. However, be sure to stand a foot or two back from the furniture. DO NOT spray at close range or it will leave a mark.

Maintenance
If possible, try to keep your upholstered furniture away from sunny spots as sun can fade fabric over time. Also, flip your cushions regularly (if applicable) to ensure even wear.

About Leather
Because leather is a natural material, color shades can vary from dye lot to dye lot depending on how that particular hide absorbs the dye. If you order swatch samples before buying your leather furniture, it's important to keep in mind that the colors could vary slightly between the two.

Maintaining Leather
Use a leather conditioner at least once a year to keep leather supple and avoid cracking. If possible, try to keep your leather furniture away from sunny spots as sun can fade fabric over time. Flipping your cushions regularly can also help to ensure even wear of the fabric and the foam or stuffing.

Cleaning Leather

General Stains: Mix 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) rubbing alcohol with 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) water. Moisten a cloth or cotton ball with the mixture and wipe the affected area. Allow leather to air dry or use a fan to speed process.
DO NOT USE: Antibacterial soap (like Purel) as it may fade the leather.

Mildew stains: Mix 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) rubbing alcohol with 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) water. Moisten a cloth or cotton ball with the mixture and wipe the affected area. Allow leather to air dry or use a fan to speed process.

Ink stains: Mix 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) rubbing alcohol with 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) water. Moisten a cloth or cotton ball with the mixture and wipe the affected area. Allow leather to air dry or use a fan to speed process.

Water stains: Allow soaked leather to dry slowly and naturally. Keep the item away from heat sources. Use a leather conditioner to restore softness after it dries.

Grease stains: Blot excess grease with a clean cloth. Sprinkle talcum powder or cornstarch on the affected area. Let the powder soak in for at least 4 hours before gently wiping it off.

Protein (Blood, Urine) Stains: Blot excess moisture with a clean, damp cloth. Mix mild soap in lukewarm water and swish to create suds. Apply only the foam with a sponge and gently rub the stained area (you may want to try a soft toothbrush). Pat the area dry with a clean soft cloth. Follow up with a leather conditioner.

Gum: Rub a plastic bag of ice cubes around the gum to harden it. This should allow you to pull it off. For any residual gum, heat the area with a hair dryer and rub the gum off with a clean cloth.

Salt Stains: Mix a solution of 3 parts vinegar to 1 part water. Moisten a cloth with the vinegar solution and dab on the affected area.

Discoloration: First, try a leather conditioner as this can help darken the leather slightly (and also keeps it in good condition). If that doesn’t work, use a leather spray designed to restore color. These products are usually sold at shoe repair shops. Choose the color that most closely matches your leather.