Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can be safely used on leather when applied correctly. Here’s why it works so well:

1. Absorbs Odors:

Leather, being a natural material, can absorb odors from pets, smoke, or food spills. Baking soda’s odor-absorbing properties help neutralize these smells, leaving your sofa fresh and clean.

2. Lifts Stains and Grease: 

Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help lift light stains and grease spots without scratching or damaging the leather surface.

3. Non-Toxic and Safe: 

Unlike some chemical cleaners, baking soda is a natural, non-toxic product that’s safe to use around kids and pets.

Now that you know the benefits, let’s get into the step-by-step process of cleaning your leather sofa with baking soda.

Before applying any cleaning products, it’s important to prep your sofa:

• Vacuum the Surface: 

Start by vacuuming your leather sofa using a soft brush attachment. This helps remove loose dirt, crumbs, and dust that can scratch the leather when rubbed.

• Inspect for Damage:

Check your sofa for any cracks, peeling, or worn areas. While baking soda is gentle, applying it directly to damaged leather could worsen the problem. If you notice significant wear, you might want to consult a professional before proceeding.

Leather is a sensitive material, and different types of leather react differently to cleaning agents. It’s essential to do a patch test before using baking soda on the entire sofa.

• Choose an Inconspicuous Spot:

 Pick a small, hidden area on the sofa, such as the back or underside of a cushion.

• Apply a Small Amount of Baking Soda: 

Sprinkle a little baking soda on the test spot and gently rub it in with a soft cloth.

• Wait and Check: 

Leave the baking soda on for about 10-15 minutes, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Check for any discoloration or damage. If everything looks good, you can proceed with the rest of the sofa.

If your primary concern is odor, you can use baking soda as a simple deodorizer.

• Sprinkle Baking Soda: 

Lightly sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface of your sofa. You can use a sifter or your hands to ensure an even application.

• Let It Sit: 

Allow the baking soda to sit on the leather for 15-20 minutes. This gives it time to absorb any odors.

• Vacuum It Up: 

Use your vacuum cleaner with the soft brush attachment to remove the baking soda. Make sure to go over the entire sofa to get all the powder off.

For tougher stains or grease spots, making a paste with baking soda can be more effective.

• Mix the Paste: 

In a small bowl, mix 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda with a few drops of water until you form a thick paste.

• Apply the Paste to the Stain:

 Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently rub the paste onto the stained area. Be sure to rub in a circular motion to avoid scratching the leather.

• Let It Sit: 

Allow the paste to sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the baking soda time to absorb the stain or grease.

• Wipe Off the Paste: 

Dampen a clean cloth with water and gently wipe away the paste. Be careful not to soak the leather, as too much moisture can damage it.

• Dry the Area:

Use a dry, soft cloth to thoroughly dry the spot. Leather should always be dried immediately after cleaning to prevent any damage.

Leather needs to be conditioned regularly to maintain its softness and prevent cracking. After using baking soda, conditioning is even more important because baking soda can sometimes leave the leather feeling a bit dry.

• Choose a Leather Conditioner:

 Use a high-quality leather conditioner or a natural oil like coconut or olive oil. Make sure to test it in a small area first, just like you did with the baking soda.

• Apply the Conditioner: 

Using a soft cloth, apply a small amount of conditioner to the sofa. Rub it in gently using circular motions.

• Buff the Leather:

After applying the conditioner, buff the sofa with a dry cloth to remove any excess product and restore the leather’s natural shine.

1. Clean Spills Immediately:

If you spill anything on your leather sofa, wipe it up immediately with a dry cloth to prevent staining.

2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Never use bleach, ammonia, or harsh cleaners on leather, as they can damage the material.

3. Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight:

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and dry out the leather. Try to position your sofa away from windows or use curtains to block the sun.

4. Vacuum Regularly:

Dust and dirt can scratch leather, so it’s important to vacuum your sofa regularly using a soft brush attachment.