care guide
Leather
Timothy Oulton leathers are typically aniline, ensuring that the natural richness and feel of the leather's original surface is maintained and celebrated as much as possible. Real leather is a natural product and as such, will often bear the hallmarks of its origin. Characteristics including scars, branding marks, creases and areas of grain variance are not detrimental to the durability of the product, they emphasise that authentic hides have been used rather than printed reproductions.
The natural and uncoated finish of Timothy Oulton leathers may acquire marks or colour discrepancies through wear and tear, for example when coming into contact with belt buckles or studding. This is normal and enriches the leather’s character and individuality over time. Timothy Oulton offers a variety of leathers with different textures and finishes. It is important to note that softer hides may well develop wrinkles and creases during their first few weeks of use. This is normal and not a cause for concern.
In the same way that new shoes need some breaking in, so does your leather sofa. Leather is naturally elastic and will stretch with use, this is not a defect but an inherent natural characteristic of leather.
Leather is one of the easiest upholstery materials to look after. It is naturally durable and grows more beautiful with age. Well-made leather furniture is an investment, and with a little bit of love and attention it can last for generations. We offer the following advice to help you care for your leather upholstery.
General Maintenance
- Lightly dust and vacuum on a regular basis
- Do not place your leather too close to a heat source, as it may cause it to crack and age prematurely
- Protect your leather from direct sunlight and moonlight, as it may cause it to fade, discolour or crack. All leathers will fade over time, but darker colours may fade faster in direct sunlight.
- Avoid sitting on the arms, back or very edge of your leather furniture as this may cause distortion and/or damage
- Be aware that clothing with transferable dyes, such as blue jeans, could transfer the dye onto light-coloured leather furniture
- Never use "standard" cleaning products to remove dust, spills or stains from leather. Refer to the specialist care instructions below:
Specialist care for Vintage Cigar
On our Vintage Cigar finish only, specialist leather cloths and creams may be used. We recommend the following Leather Master products from leathermasteruk.com; 'Protection Cream Cloth' and 'Pull Up Cream'. Avoid hard rubbing when cleaning your leather as this may damage the hand-finish and cause discoloration.
Specialist care for all other leathers
Our leathers have been vigorously hand-distressed to achieve their distinctive look and feel, and are therefore highly absorbent. This means they will acquire marks over time, enhancing their rugged character. We do not recommend using leather cleaning cloths and creams as these products may be absorbed and mark the leather. Consult a reputable and recognized professional leather specialist if required.
Additional care for Pixel studded leather:
- Wipe up spills on studded leather immediately using a clean dry cloth
- Do not clean the studs with bleach or any detergent containing sulphuric or hydrochloric acid
- Avoid the use of steel wool or scouring pads as this will scratch the metal
Additional care for Saddlestrap leather
A thick, full aniline leather tanned using natural tannins from oak bark and coloured using 100% natural dyes derived from plants including woad, mulberry and jasmine. The colour will darken over time with use, enriching the leather's patina and character.
- Wipe up spills on Saddlestrap leather immediately using a clean dry cloth
