Home Improvements: How to clean leather sofas

If your children have recently discovered felt-tip pens and decided that your white leather sofa would make an excellent canvas for their scribbles, do not despair. Leather is relatively easy to clean.

The best way to get rid of any marks is to use hot water on a soft microfibre cloth with a small amount of chemical cleaner such as liquid Dettol. Do not place any chemicals directly on the leather. Instead, submerse the cloth in hot water, spray a little Dettol on it and then manipulate it around the area that needs attention. Wrap the cloth around your fingers, and gently massage the surface of the leather.

Finish off with a good leather cleaner, or if your leather is dry, invest in some wood oil, which is better than saddle soap. Again, gently massage the oil on to the leather, and then leave it while it conditions the material.

Try test cleaning an out-of-the-way spot first. And remember, if you really want to care for your leather furniture, it is best to keep it out of direct sunlight.

For more information, visit www.housekeepingco.com