How To Condition Leather Furniture

updated Jun 5, 2019
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(Image credit: Ashley Poskin)

Leather furniture can last for decades if properly taken care of. Prolong the life of your piece by using this simple, all-natural leather conditioner.

(Image credit: Ashley Poskin)

What You Need

Materials

  • Vinegar
  • Linseed oil
  • Essential oil (optional)

Tools

  • Jar with a lid or spray bottle
  • Microfiber cloth

Instructions

  1. Wipe down your furniture to be sure it is dust-free in preparation for the conditioning treatment.

2. Mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts linseed oil in a jar with a lid. Close the lid and shake vigorously. (I added a few drops of lemongrass essential oil at this step because I’m not too fond of the linseed oil smell.)

(Image credit: Ashley Poskin)

3. Dip your rag in the mixture and start to work the oil into the leather. I worked in small, circular motions on each section of my piece. Let the conditioning treatment soak into the leather for 8-10 hours.

4. Once the leather has had a chance to absorb the oil, buff with a clean microfiber towel.

(Image credit: Ashley Poskin)

In the photo above, the left side has been conditioned, the right has not.

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