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How to Repair a Scratched Leather Couch

There’s no denying that a leather couch ups the style factor of your living room. Unfortunately, leather is prone to scratches, making your couch look less than pleasing to the eye. We have good news, though! You can remove scratches with a bit of elbow grease and a couple of items from the store. You may need to try a few methods, but it’ll be worth it in the end. Or if you find that the work is too much, you can always check out our selection of fine furnishings at Bell’s Ethan Allen Design Center for the best leather furniture, window treatments, and home décor in the New York area.

Ethan Allen, Repair your scratched leather couch, Leather Furniture near Newburgh, New York (NY)

Items You’ll Need

Many scratches can be removed using things you already have at home, but you may need a leather repair kit for deeper scratches. Here are the basics you will need, either way.

  • Clean, soft cloths
  • Leather cleaner
  • Leather conditioner
  • White vinegar
  • Leather marker or repair kit

Step 1: Remove Surface Dirt

Before beginning, you need to remove any dust, dirt, or pet hair to avoid embedding any in deeper scratches. Follow this by gently wiping the area with leather cleaner. White vinegar is a great substitute for leather cleaner in a pinch.

Step 2: The Buffing Begins

Put a small amount of leather conditioner on a clean rag and rub in small circles, starting with the scratch and working outwards. It may take a few tries to completely remove the blemish. After you’ve finished, wait 10-15 minutes for any excess conditioner to be absorbed and buff away any excess lingering on the surface.

Step 3: Color the Area

Deep scratches may still be visible after steps 1 and 2. Don’t worry; there are a few more tricks to try. Grab a leather marker and test a small, inconspicuous area to make sure the colors match. If all systems are a go, apply a thin coat and let it dry completely before deciding if a second coat is necessary.

Bring Out the Big Guns

Some scratches are particularly stubborn, and you need a leather repair kit to send those packing. Always check the instructions on your gear, but in general, the steps are as follows:

  • Use leather cleaner again to clean the area.
  • Apply a binding agent to the scratch and the surrounding leather.
  • After the binder has dried, gently sand the area and brush away any dust before using a filler in the scratch.
  • Gently sand the area again and apply a coloring agent to match the repaired area with the rest of the couch.
  • Finish off the process with a sealant and enjoy your luxurious sofa.

Preventing Scratches

It’s always easier to prevent damage than it is to repair it. Never allow pets on or around your leather sofa and avoid wearing clothing that has exposed clasps or zippers. If a scratch does occur, treat it as soon as possible. Blemishes may be harder to repair if they are left unattended for too long.

Contact Us

Repairing your scratched leather sofa is easier than you may have thought! However, if you find that your couch is beyond repair and needs replacing, we are always here to help. We carry furniture and accessories for your entire home and offer interior design consultations to help you create the perfect space. Call us today at (845) 565-6000 to schedule yours. Our spacious store is located in Newburgh, NY, and we are happy to serve Warrick, Middletown, Fishkill, Wappinger Falls, Rhinebeck, and New Paltz, NY.

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