Home Garden

How to Keep a Leather Couch From Fading

A leather couch is an investment that can last decades when properly cared for, but the leather surface is susceptible to fading over time when exposed to sunlight. Ultraviolet rays hit the leather surface when the couch is placed near an uncovered window and transforms the once soft and supple leather to a dull, rough texture. Conditioning can maintain the condition of the leather couch, as a special leather cleaner restores oil to the couch's surface without damaging the fabric for a smooth, oil-free finish.

Things You'll Need

  • 3 cleaning cloths
  • Furniture cover
  • Leather conditioner
  • Humidifier
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Blot stains immediately with a soft, clean cloth after they touch the leather couch's surface. Moisture exposure absorbs the leather's oils and increases the risk of fading.

    • 2

      Move your couch away from nearby windows. Ultraviolet rays expose the leather couch to high levels of heat, which discolors the couch and dulls the leather surface. Close the window's shades or curtains if you are unable to move the couch out of the sunlight.

    • 3

      Place a furniture cover over the couch during the daytime. A furniture cover is a sheet that shields the leather surface from direct sunlight and can be purchased at hardware stores.

    • 4

      Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of leather conditioner onto a soft, clean cloth and gently rub the conditioner over the leather surface. Wipe off excess conditioner with a dry, clean cloth after rubbing in the conditioner to prevent damage to the leather.

    • 5

      Place a portable humidifier in the same room as the leather couch. Set the humidifier's moisture level between 30 to 40 percent to provide moisture to the room, which prevents the couch's leather from dulling or cracking.