Solutions for Eliminating Scratches on Leather Furniture: A Method to Camouflage Minor Scuffs on Your Sofa
In this article, we'll share expert advice from Alessandro Gazzo, a cleaning specialist at Emily's Maids of Dallas, on how to repair scratches on a leather sofa using household items and cleaning products.
Step 1: Gently Clean the Area
Start by creating a mild soapy solution by mixing a teaspoon of baby shampoo with a cup of water. Dab a soft cloth into this mixture and gently clean the scratched area in circular motions without soaking the leather. Quickly buff with a barely damp cloth afterward and let it dry indoors away from direct sunlight.
Step 2: Apply Oils or Conditioner
Once dry, use olive oil, baby oil, or a commercial leather conditioner applied with a cotton swab or soft cloth. Dab a small amount onto the scratch and blend outward, then let it sit and buff gently to rehydrate the leather and help conceal scratches by darkening the lighter damaged area.
Step 3: Use Heat for Minor Scratches (Optional)
For very superficial scratches where the leather fibers are intact, place a damp cloth on the scratched spot and gently heat it with a medium setting hair dryer for about 10 seconds. This can help the leather fibers swell and reduce visibility of minor scratches. Then buff with a dry cloth.
Step 4: Repair Deep or Torn Scratches
For deep scratches, you may need a leather repair kit which includes adhesive, filler, and matching dye. Clean the area thoroughly, trim any loose edges carefully, possibly insert a sub-patch underneath large tears for support, then apply leather adhesive and filler per instructions. Finish with matching dye to blend with the couch color.
Tools for the Job
Alessandro recommends the following tools for cleaning and repairing scratches on a leather sofa:
- Leather cleaner
- Leather conditioner
- Thick microfiber cloth
- Spray bottle
- Baby wipes
- Empty amber glass spray bottles
Alessandro's Tips
- If the scratches are small, a good leather conditioner can blend them in with the rest of the surface.
- Getting cleaner and conditioner from the same company is a good idea for leather.
- Cut loose scratches as close as possible to the surface to make it as flat and even as possible.
- Start the cleaning process by wiping the sofa with a baby wipe to remove dust, hair, or fur.
- Use curved scissors to trim any 'strings' or 'hairs' from a scratched leather sofa.
About Alessandro Gazzo
Alessandro Gazzo is a cleaning expert who specializes in creating a healthier, greener, and more efficient approach to home care. He enjoys testing both commercial and DIY cleaning products, researching sustainable cleaning trends, and collaborating with journalists to help people clean smarter, not harder.
For deeper scratches, it's best to use a dedicated leather repair kit to properly restore the couch. Avoid using harsh cleaners that dry out leather or excessive heat that might damage it. By following these steps, you can effectively repair scratches on your leather sofa.
