The two materials fail in different ways. Fabric absorbs soil into the weave; leather accumulates body oils on the surface and dries out where it is not maintained.
That means different products, different tools and a completely different aftercare routine.
The short version
- Fabric: pre-treat, agitate, extract, dry with airflow
- Leather: pH-balanced clean, then conditioning to replace lost oils
- Head and arm contact points need attention on both
- Pigmented, aniline and semi-aniline leathers behave differently
- Never use household wipes or all-purpose spray on leather
How leather cleaning works
Leather is cleaned with a pH-balanced foam that lifts soil and body oil without stripping the finish, then conditioned to restore suppleness. Skipping the conditioning stage leaves the hide dry, which is what leads to cracking at the seat and arm creases.
Aniline and semi-aniline leathers are absorbent and unprotected, so they need far more caution than a pigmented finish.
How fabric cleaning works
Fabric is tested, pre-treated for its soil type, gently agitated and then extracted with a hand tool. Cushions are dried standing on edge so airflow reaches both faces.
Aftercare that actually helps
Small habits extend the interval between professional cleans on both materials.
- Vacuum fabric sofas including under and behind the cushions
- Wipe leather with a barely damp cloth, never a chemical wipe
- Keep both out of direct strong sunlight where possible
- Deal with head-oil build-up on headrests early rather than annually