Here at Sterling Furniture Co., we understand that a leather sofa or accent chair is an investment in both comfort and style. We see generations of Utah families choosing leather for its unmatched elegance. However, the extreme dryness and low humidity so characteristic of the Utah climate can be a real threat to your investment.

Without proper moisture, the natural oils in the leather evaporate, leading to stiffness, fading, and eventually, irreversible cracking. Protecting your piece requires a consistent, proactive approach. Here is our guide to caring for leather furniture in dry air—advice we’ve shared with our customers for decades.

1. Control the Environment (Your Most Important Line of Defense)

The air in your Salt Lake City home is often significantly drier than the ideal humidity for leather (which is around 40–60%). You must add moisture back into the air.

• Invest in a Humidifier: This is the single most important step. Place a small humidifier near your leather furniture, especially during the cold winter months when forced-air heating strips moisture from the air. Maintaining a stable humidity level helps keep the leather supple.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: Intense UV rays and direct heat are the fastest ways to dry out and damage your leather. Position your sofa or chair away from sunny windows, and maintain at least a two-foot distance from fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents.

2. Condition Consistently (The Hydration Routine)

Think of the high-quality leather we sell as your own skin—it needs regular moisturizing, especially in an arid environment.

• Clean Before Conditioning: Always gently wipe the leather with a soft, clean, damp cloth to remove surface dust first. This ensures maximum absorption.
• Choose the Best Leather Conditioner: Use a high-quality, pH-balanced leather conditioner designed specifically for furniture. We advise avoiding harsh chemicals or petroleum-based products, which can clog the pores and cause drying over time.
• Apply 2-4 Times Per Year: Given our arid climate, you should condition your high-use leather pieces at least every three to four months. Apply a small amount in a circular motion with a soft cloth and allow it time to soak in before buffing off any excess.

What to Do About Cracked Leather

We prioritize selling durable, high-quality leather. If it is properly maintained, cracking should be preventable.

• Minor Surface Cracks: For very fine surface cracks, often caused by lack of conditioning, consistent application of a quality conditioner can sometimes rehydrate the area and minimize their appearance.
• Deep Cracks/Tears: Once the crack is deep or the leather is torn, you need professional help. We recommend consulting a local leather repair technician who can use specialized fillers and dyes to blend the damage.

By controlling the humidity and sticking to a consistent routine with the best leather conditioner, your quality leather pieces from Sterling Furniture Co. will remain soft, comfortable, and beautiful—just as they were intended to be when you brought them home.