How To Care For…Different Types of Leather

There are many different types of leather that all have different properties and styles. We offer a wide range of furniture that is upholstered in gorgeous leather and faux leather. Take a look at our guide to looking after the different types of leather.

Faux Leather

Faux Leather is made from synthetic materials meaning it is very durable – perfect for the domestic and commercial market. It has a similar look and feel to real leather but faux leather furniture is usually less expensive. Faux Leather can crack and split, especially if the furniture is placed in direct sunlight. All you will need to keep your faux leather furniture looking great is a bucket of warm soapy water and a soft cloth to wash your faux leather with, ensuring you clean small areas at a time. You then use a dry cloth to wipe the washed areas, and you can also use a faux leather cleaner to remove specific spots. It is important to apply a protective gel to ensure the Faux Leather does not dry out.

Regenerated Leather

Regenerated Leather has a completely smooth texture. This finish is produced when the leather goes through a manufacturing process that compresses the fibres. It is a popular choice for commercial markets as it is very hard wearing and strong, and a less expensive alternative to genuine leather. You must wipe down the regenerated leather furniture surface every two weeks with a damp, clean cloth and this will remove dirt that collects, but also be sure to dust the crevices and creases either with a vacuum cleaner or dry cloth. It is important to clean spills whenever they occur, firstly blotting the spillage and then carefully wiping it with a damp cloth. You must not use soap or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the leather. You can also apply a leather conditioner twice a year.

Aniline Leather

Aniline Leather is the most natural and tactile looking leather as its unique surface has the animal hide characteristics showing. As it is very soft and has been dyed, without a pigmented surface coating, it can easily soak in stains and get dirty. You must dust the Aniline Leather furniture weekly with a soft cloth or vacuum cleaner. If you stain the furniture use a damp cloth to dab off any excess and do not use household cleaning products. An Aniline Leather Protection cream can be applied to protect against staining and scratching but you must read the instructions and test it before using.

Semi-Aniline Leather

Semi-Aniline is similar is Aniline Leather as the natural animal hide is still visible but it has a small amount of pigment in the surface coating or clear finish so shade variation can occur. This clear coating gives the soft leather extra protection and increased wearability. You must ensure that you dust the semi-aniline leather on a weekly basis and a damp cloth with a mild soapy solution can be used to remove dirt. If you spill something, use a damp cloth to dab off any excess but do not use household cleaning products. If you choose to a use a semi-aniline protection cream to add extra protection, you must read the instructions and test it before use.

Soft Split Leather 

Split Leather refers to a piece of leather that has been split from the skin of the hide and depending on the thickness it can be separated into multiple layers. Because it has been split, the Leather is fragile so must be treated to make it hard wearing and durable. It can be designed to have a pattern embossed or buffed to create suede. Regularly you must wipe the split leather furniture with a damp cloth, starting from the top and moving downwards. You must then let it air dry and then buff it with a cloth that has been dampened by a leather cleaner. Any split leather that resembles suede must be cleaned with suede cleaner and a brush which is perfect for removing spots or stains. Generally it is important to keep all split leather furniture out of direct sunlight and heat and avoid using all purpose cleaners.