Vintage leather armchairs can add character to any home.

Their rich textures make them both stylish and nostalgic. However, like any vintage item, they require a little extra care to ensure they remain in good condition for years to come.

Without proper maintenance, leather can dry out, crack, and lose its appeal. Here’s how you can keep your vintage leather armchairs looking their best.

Clean gently, but regularly

One of the key steps in maintaining vintage leather is regular cleaning. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface.

Use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe down your armchairs once a week to remove surface dust.

If the leather looks grimy or stained, use a damp cloth with a small amount of mild soap.

Start by testing the cleaning solution on a less visible area to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration or harm. Once cleaned, wipe the area with a dry cloth to remove any excess moisture.

Condition the leather

Leather, particularly vintage leather, can dry out over time. To prevent this, it’s important to condition your armchairs regularly.

Use a high-quality leather cream or conditioner designed specifically for vintage leather and massage it into the leather.

Allow the conditioner to absorb for a few hours or overnight, then buff the surface with a clean, dry cloth. This not only nourishes the leather but also restores its natural shine.

Keep away from direct sunlight and heat

Leather is sensitive to extreme temperatures and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Too much heat can cause the leather to dry out and crack, while UV rays can lead to fading and discolouration. Position your vintage leather armchairs away from windows, radiators, or fireplaces.

Not possible? Consider using curtains or blinds to limit the amount of direct sunlight they receive.

If you have underfloor heating, try placing a thick rug underneath the armchair to prevent heat damage.

Handle with care

Vintage leather can be fragile, so handling your armchairs with care is crucial.

Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on the leather, as they can cause scratches or indentations. When moving your armchairs, lift them rather than dragging them to prevent strain on the frame and leather.

Address stains quickly

If you spill something on your vintage leather armchair, it’s best to act quickly.

Blot the stain gently with a soft, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. If the stain persists, use a specialised leather cleaner, but remember to test it on a hidden area first.

For oil-based stains, use talcum powder on the affected area and leave it for a few hours to absorb the oil. Gently brush it off with a soft cloth afterwards.

Consult a professional for major repairs

While minor cleaning and conditioning can be done at home, more significant issues like deep cracks, tears, or severe fading should be handled by a professional.

Attempting complex repairs without the right expertise can lead to further damage.

A leather restoration expert will know how to restore your armchair while preserving its vintage charm.

Final thoughts

Caring for vintage leather armchairs doesn’t have to be difficult.

With gentle cleaning, proper maintenance, and mindful placement, your armchairs can remain beautiful and functional for decades to come.

Find more information about vintage leather armchairs and how to look after it here