With its rich history, iconic aesthetic and timeless design, Chesterfield furniture is a statement of luxury and elegance that has featured in homes since the 18th century. Known for their distinctive deep button tufting, rolled arms and high-quality leather, Chesterfields are a cherished centrepiece for any home – so proper care is essential. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know to keep your furniture looking as beautiful as the day you invested in it – from dusting, cleaning and stain removal to conditioning, leather protection and restoration services.

Regular cleaning and dusting

The first and most important step to keep your Chesterfield in pristine condition is regular cleaning. Dust and dirt can be damaging over time for your upholstery – but with consistent care, you can prevent them from dulling the sleek finish of your furniture. To keep dirt from binding to the fabric or leather, we recommend dusting weekly to keep the finish looking fresh and clean. Use a soft, dry cloth – a microfiber cloth is most effective as it traps the dust rather than just moving it elsewhere. You can also use a vacuum with a smooth, clean brush attachment to dust your furniture – but avoid any harsh chemicals and make sure any cleaning cloths used are non-abrasive so they gently remove dust and grime and don’t damage the material. Opt for a mild, pH-balanced cleaner specifically designed for leather that will clean without stripping the leather of its natural oils. Whatever it says on the label, be sure to always check that your cleaning products comply with UK safety standards such as BS EN 71-3, making sure they’re safe for use.

Deep cleaning and stain removal

Deep cleaning is key to protect the beauty and longevity of your Chesterfield furniture, especially if you’re dealing with set-in stains. Accidents happen – and whether it’s food spills, ink, or prolonged dirt build-up, there’s a range of different products and techniques you can use to restore the original condition of your furniture. Firstly, give your couch a good dust to remove any residual dirt, and then dampen a soft cloth with a suitable cleaner diluted in lukewarm water and apply a small amount to a less visible area of the furniture to test for discoloration. Once you’re confident the cleaner you have is safe to use, gently wipe down the rest of the surfaces and use a clean damp cloth to remove any cleaner residue, followed by a soft towel to dry the surfaces.

When ink is dropped on Chesterfields, it’s best to use a product that contains isopropyl alcohol, dabbed gently onto the stain with a cotton swab. Try not to rub the area, as this could spread the ink further easily. For food stains, you should act fast and blot the area with a dry cloth and then quickly follow up with your cleaning solution and water. For both of these stains, we recommend using a conditioner shortly after to add moisture back into the material. Strictly avoid using any bleach or ammonia, as this will quickly damage the leather. Ideally it’s best to have the cleaner available at home ready – but if you need a quick DIY option, for mild stains you can use equal parts water and white vinegar.

Deep cleaning only needs to be performed every few months, as cleaning your Chesterfield too much could damage the upholstery.

Conditioning and protecting the leather

Luxurious materials require regular maintenance to retain their premium appearance. Conditioning your Chesterfield leather is the best way to prevent cracks and keep it smooth, springy, and lustrous with a high-quality finish. We recommend bi-annual to annual conditioning, depending on how often your furniture is used as well as its positioning in the house. If it’s in direct sunlight or a particularly warm room such as an orangery or conservatory, it will need more consistent care to prevent it from drying out.

Your Chesterfield is an investment piece, so it’s important to treat it with high-quality products to maintain its condition. Opt for products with natural oils and waxes as a base, as these will reduce greasy residue when they hydrate the leather. Stay clear of any products with more abrasive and harsh chemical ingredients, as this can degrade and devalue the finish. For extra protection, UV sprays add extra security as they reduce sun damage to the materials which will preserve the rich colour and texture of the Chesterfield. Stain guard coatings are also brilliant preventative options as they create a physical barrier that repels liquids, making it easier to clean up and rectify accidental spills and stains.

Preventive measures and regular inspections

To keep your Chesterfield in immaculate condition for generations, keeping on top of preventive care and regularly inspecting its condition is essential. This helps to avoid unnecessary damage and maintain your piece’s elegance for longer. Our best preventative advice is to avoid sitting your furniture in direct sunlight or close to fires as inconsistent temperatures and humidity (especially prolonged exposure to heat) can cause the materials to expand, contract and warp. Adding covers to your furniture can easily protect the materials from daily wear as well as adding an extra layer of protection from accidental stains – which is perfect for busy households with children and pets.

We also recommend rotating your cushions regularly to reduce uneven worn patches and sagging, as well as placing the piece on a rug to protect the frame from scratches on harder flooring. Keep an eye out for any loose seams and buttons or excessive wear in higher-use spots so that you can catch damage early before it intensifies and develops into more extensive, costly damage.

Professional care and restoration services

Chesterfield furniture with its high-quality craftsmanship deserves premium care to maintain its iconic aesthetic. Whilst regular maintenance at home is recommended and important, professional care does offer additional benefits, and knowing when (and where) to seek help is key. If your furniture has stubborn stains, significant cracks or fading, sagging cushions and broken buttons, it’s time to speak to a specialist for professional restoration. Look for reputable services with a good number of genuine customer reviews and industry certifications from trade organisations to ensure your investment is in safe hands. Noteworthy credentials to look out for are certifications from the BICSc (British Institute of Cleaning Science) or the Guild of Master Craftsmen. Before you commit to a service, inquiring about their specific products and techniques as well as any guarantees offered is recommended. They should be also compliant with the latest UK regulations such as the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988.

Always ask for multiple quotes to compare the prices within the market and the standard of service offered. We understand that price is a factor in choosing a provider, but the quality of the service should be a top priority for your cherished furniture.

By following these guidelines and seeking professional care proactively, you can guarantee your Chesterfield remains a luxurious feature in your home now and for generations to come. For more information on how you can protect your Chesterfield and the professional care and restoration services available, please speak to a member of our experts today.