Sofas are usually the central pieces of a living room, constantly subjected to traffic, allowing dust and grime to accumulate over time. Neglecting this chore can result in permanent damage to your furniture, potentially leading to the need for a costly replacement. Proper and frequent cleaning can extend your couch’s lifespan, but cleaning leather upholstery presents its own set of challenges.
Is steam cleaning safe for leather couches? Will the use of a steam cleaner cause any damage to the furniture? Let’s explore these questions and more in this guide.
Is It Safe to Steam Clean a Leather Couch?
As a general rule of thumb, water and leather don’t mix well because water causes leather to stretch and can even rip it apart. However, steam cleaning is a different matter. While steam is safer than water for leather, it still needs to be applied carefully, at the right temperature, and at an appropriate distance. The type of leather you are attempting to clean also matters.
For the safest results, consider scheduling a professional leather cleaning session. Experts can examine your furniture, recommend the best cleaning method, and clean it perfectly for you.
Pros of Leather Upholstery Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning leather offers several benefits that other cleaning methods cannot:
- Kills Bacteria and Germs: Steam cleaners can eliminate up to 99.9% of bacteria and germs from your leather couch.
- Eliminates Mould and Mildew: Steam can effectively remove mould and mildew, which can’t withstand high heat.
- Removes Unpleasant Smells: The hot water vapor can penetrate the leather’s layers and eliminate foul odors.
- Environmentally Friendly: Steam cleaning is chemical-free, unlike other methods that might include harsh chemicals.
- Deep Cleans the Material: Steam opens the pores of the leather, loosening oil and dirt molecules for effective cleaning.
Cons of Steam Cleaning Leather
While steam cleaning has its advantages, it also has some downsides:
- Possible Water Damage: Excessive steam can make leather dry, leading to cracking, peeling, and rotting.
- Drying of the Leather: Steam cleaning can remove the leather’s natural oils, so conditioning after cleaning is essential.
- Possibility of Mould Growth: If the sofa doesn’t dry out completely, it can become a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
- Leather Shrinking: Excessive water and heat can cause the leather fibers to shrink, leading to creases and wrinkles.
Factors to Consider Before Steam Cleaning a Leather Sofa
- Type and Quality of Leather: Different types of leather react differently to steam cleaning. High-quality leather like aniline may be more susceptible to water damage, while faux leather can often withstand steam cleaning better.
- Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to avoid voiding any warranties.
Cleaning a Leather Couch with a Steam Cleaner
If you decide to steam clean your leather sofa, follow these steps:
- Acquire a Steam Cleaner: You can purchase or rent a steam cleaner suitable for upholstery.
- Pre-Treat the Leather: Clean the surface with a solution of hot water, linseed oil, and white vinegar. Test on a small area first.
- Prepare Your Steam Cleaner: Follow the device’s instructions and set it to the lowest temperature.
- Steam Clean the Couch: Use the brush attachment and clean from the back to the front, ensuring all crevices are reached.
- Dry the Leather Sofa’s Surface: Wipe any damp areas with a clean cloth and let the sofa air dry completely.
- Apply a Leather Conditioner: After cleaning, apply a leather conditioner to restore the leather’s oils and shine.
Alternatives to Steam Cleaning for Leather Couches
- Water and Soap: Mix distilled water with a small amount of dish soap, lightly dampen a cloth, and wipe the couch’s surface. Dry thoroughly with another cloth.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda and water to create a paste, apply it to the leather, let it sit, then wipe clean.
- Lemon Juice: Combine lemon juice with baking soda for a gentle, effective cleaner.
Takeaways
- Steam cleaning leather is primarily used to sanitize and deep clean, eliminating odors and bacteria.
- Pre-treat the leather sofa before steam cleaning and condition it afterward.
- Always patch test on a non-visible area to ensure the cleaning method won’t damage the fabric.
For comprehensive and safe appliance cleaning services, visit Anyclean.ca.