Q&A for How to Repair Scratches on Leather Furniture

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Can you put shoe polish on a leather couch?

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This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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Staff Answer

Unfortunately it’s usually not such a good idea. While it may seem intuitive to use a polish meant for leather, shoe leather is treated and prepared differently from leather used on seats and is therefore not able to soak up the polish in the same way shoe leather will. In a pinch, it might work once, but you are much better off using treatments specifically intended for the leather on couches, as these will bring out the shine and condition the leather properly.

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Question

Do cats like to scratch leather?

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This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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While some cats enjoy scratching leather, many cats aren’t that fond of it and will tend to leave it alone. Perhaps it’s because leather can be quite hard for their claws to get purchase or because it’s just too cold and unfriendly, that many cats would prefer to leave it alone. That isn’t to say all cats will avoid scratching it––as with any individual preferences, some cats will think it’s enjoyable to scratch on leather. Also, you’ll need to be careful of accidental scratches if your cat is sitting on the couch and flexes its claws or catches a claw on the surface when moving. To avoid that possibility, lay a small blanket or cover down for the cat to sleep on (it’ll be cozier for the cat anyway).

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Question

How do I keep my cat from scratching my leather couch?

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The best way to keep a cat from scratching your leather couch is to distract the cat with things it’ll find more fun. For example, if you place a scratching post near the couch, perhaps impregnated with catnip odors, the cat will likely find this more interesting than your couch. Also, try to discourage the cat from sitting on the couch unless you’ve laid down a blanket first, to keep it safe from your cat’s claws, which it might extend onto the couch surface when contented. You’ll find more helpful tips on stopping your cat from scratching the leather couch here: How to Stop a Cat from Scratching the Couch .

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Question

I have dark brown leather sectional and a separate dark brown leather recliner ther are 2 spots where our dogs sleep where their saliva has lightened the color of the leather is there anyway to fix this?

Community Answer

Try applying a leather colorant to the area.Test it first on a seldom-seen section of your furniture, in case it darkens the leather too much.

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Question

My cats scratched my sofa. The scratches aren't deep, but they look like a different color. Which way do I go?

Community Answer

Rub either some leather wipes or olive oil on the scratch. If the scratch is light-colored, it should turn a near black color from the oils. Let it sit for an hour or two and then check on the scratch again. It should be gone.

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Question

My dog scratched my soft leather couch. How do I repair it?

Community Answer

Take it to an upholsterer.

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Question

My dog scratched the leather in my car, and on the door panel. How do I repair it?

Community Answer

Truth be told, since you're asking for the DIY answer, your door panel is likely to be vinyl. Try a vinyl/leather repair kit from the auto parts store. If that doesn't work, you can then price out a new or used panel for replacement, or find an automotive upholstery shop to repair it. Unless your car is very high end, your door panel is not leather - only the seats are leather in a leather interior.

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Question

What kind of nails do I use for fixing a leather cover on a wood surface, and where do I find them?

Community Answer

They are called furniture tacks or studs. Find them at a hardware store or upholstery shop.

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