Before you start, it’s important to understand that leather is a natural material that requires gentle care. Using harsh cleaners or scrubbing too aggressively can damage the leather’s surface, resulting in discoloration or drying it out. Additionally, leather can be porous, so the polish may have already absorbed slightly into the surface. With the right techniques and tools, you can clean it while keeping your leather couch in top condition.

• Soft, lint-free cloths
• Mild dish soap or castile soap
• White vinegar
• Olive oil or leather conditioner
• Rubbing alcohol or leather-safe stain remover
• Cotton swabs or cotton balls
• Baking soda (optional)
• Leather cleaner (optional but recommended)
• Soft-bristle brush (optional)

Start by removing as much excess shoe polish as possible without smearing it further. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a paper towel to gently dab the polish stain. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can spread the polish or push it further into the leather.

If the polish has dried, use a soft-bristle brush to loosen the dried polish particles, which can then be gently removed by blotting. This will make it easier to treat any remaining stain.

For most stains, a mild soap solution can work wonders on leather. Combine a few drops of mild dish soap or castile soap with warm water in a small bowl. Dampen a clean cloth with this solution, and gently blot the stained area.

Take extra care to avoid soaking the leather. Too much water can damage leather and leave watermarks. Blot the stain gently, lifting as much polish as possible from the surface. When finished, use another damp cloth with plain water to remove any soap residue.

If the mild soap solution didn’t fully remove the stain, try using white vinegar, which is gentle enough for most leather but effective on stubborn stains. Dampen a clean cloth with a small amount of vinegar (never pour it directly onto the leather) and blot the affected area lightly.

Since vinegar has a drying effect on leather, use it sparingly and follow up with a conditioner to restore moisture.

Note: Test a small, hidden area on your couch before applying vinegar widely to make sure it doesn’t affect the color.

For particularly stubborn shoe polish stains, rubbing alcohol can be an effective solution. Dampen a cotton swab or cotton ball with a small amount of rubbing alcohol and gently dab the stain. This method works well for smaller spots, as it helps lift the polish without soaking the leather.

Like vinegar, rubbing alcohol can be drying to leather, so make sure to condition the area afterward.

If any polish residue or oils are still visible, you can sprinkle a little baking soda on the stained area. Baking soda naturally absorbs oils and moisture, helping to lift the remaining stain.

Leave the baking soda on the leather for about 15 minutes.

Afterward, gently brush off the baking soda with a soft-bristle brush or cloth.

Be sure to wipe down the area with a damp cloth to remove any powder residue.

Once the stain is completely removed, your leather couch will need a little TLC to restore its luster. Leather can dry out from exposure to soap, vinegar, or alcohol, so conditioning is crucial to keeping it soft and supple.

Apply a small amount of leather conditioner or olive oil to a soft cloth, and massage it into the area where the stain was. Conditioning your leather couch every few months is a good habit, but be especially mindful after cleaning any type of stain to restore moisture to the treated area.

Act Quickly:

Fresh polish stains are easier to remove than dried ones, so try to tackle the stain as soon as you spot it.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals:

Avoid using bleach, ammonia, or any harsh cleaning chemicals on leather, as these can cause discoloration or damage.

Spot Test First:

Before applying any cleaning product to the entire stain, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the couch to make sure it won’t cause damage or discoloration.

Use Leather-Safe Products:

Leather cleaners and conditioners made specifically for leather can be very effective for stubborn stains and overall care. If you frequently clean leather furniture, investing in a good leather cleaner can help maintain the couch’s appearance and durability.

Avoid Excess Water:

Water and leather don’t mix well, as water can leave marks or discoloration. Always use damp, not wet, cloths when cleaning leather.

Repeat if Necessary:

Some stains may require a few rounds of cleaning. Repeat the steps as needed, but remember to condition the leather between treatments to keep it moisturized.