Over time, even the highest-quality leather sofas lose their original depth of colour and smooth finish. Daily use, sunlight, body oils, and incorrect cleaning products all contribute to fading, dryness, and surface wear. At
Hampshire Leather Care, we specialise in restoring these fine leather furnishings — not just cosmetically, but technically — returning their suppleness, colour, and protective finish using proven professional systems. Every restoration project follows a structured, multi-stage process to ensure safety, precision, and long-term durability.
Step 1: Pre-Inspection and Identification
Before any restoration begins, we identify the leather type, as this determines the cleaning chemistry and coatings used. We inspect for type (aniline, semi-aniline, pigmented, pull-up, or coated), condition (wear, cracks, fading, contamination), and exposure history. Accurate identification ensures the correct balance of products, since each leather type responds differently to water, solvents, and finishes.
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Step 2: Deep Cleaning and Surface Preparation
We start by dry soil extraction, gently removing dust and debris from seams, buttons, and grain crevices. Next, we apply a pH-balanced professional cleaner, selected for the specific leather finish. Gentle agitation removes body oils, dye transfer, and wax build-up, while a neutralising rinse stabilises pH to prevent binder failure later. Where necessary, we abrade the surface lightly using fine pads to promote mechanical bonding for new coatings.
Step 3: Leather Rehydration and Fibre Strengthening
Once the leather is clean, we treat the fibres with water-based rehydration and binder systems. Rehydration restores lost moisture, while binders strengthen the leather’s internal fibre structure. This step is vital for seating and armrest zones, ensuring the leather flexes naturally without cracking after restoration.
Step 4: Colour Restoration – Pigment and Dye Application
We restore colour using professional-grade water-based leather pigments with high adhesion and flexibility. Colour is matched precisely via spectrophotometer or visual blending, then applied in thin layers by airbrush or sponge. Each coat builds depth and uniformity while preserving grain texture. Edges and seams are detailed by hand to replicate original tonal variation. This process reintroduces a thin, flexible colour film that maintains breathability and the natural feel of leather.
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Step 5: Protective Topcoat and Lacquer Application
After recolouring, we apply a durable topcoat lacquer replicating the original factory finish — matt, satin, or gloss. The lacquer provides UV resistance, abrasion protection, and improved cleanability. For high-use pieces, we can introduce crosslinking additives for enhanced chemical resistance. Each coat is warm-air cured to achieve full polymerisation, guaranteeing long-lasting flexibility and adhesion.
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Step 6: Conditioning and Finishing Touches
Once the coatings have cured, we apply a specialist conditioning and protection cream designed to nourish and maintain the new surface. This product forms a microscopic barrier that repels oils and dye transfer, helping the leather remain supple. The entire sofa is then hand-buffed to a natural sheen — restoring the richness and luxurious feel associated with fine leather upholstery.
Technical Standards and Quality Assurance
We follow industry-recognised procedures taught through systems like IICRC and Leather Training & Technical (LTT), using coatings compatible with EU REACH safety standards. Every product used is non-toxic, water-based, UV-stable, and designed for long-term elasticity and colour-fastness. We also conduct adhesion and rub tests to ensure coatings bond correctly and withstand use.
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Why Professional Leather Restoration Matters
Unlike DIY kits, professional restoration rebuilds the leather’s structure, not just its colour. By restoring both fibres and coatings, we extend the lifespan of valuable leather furniture and prevent the need for costly reupholstery or replacement. A properly restored leather sofa not only looks beautiful but also feels natural, flexible, and durable for years to come.
Serving Hampshire and Surrounding Areas
Our leather restoration services are available across Southampton, Winchester, Fareham, Portsmouth, Lymington, Romsey, Petersfield, and beyond. Every project is carried out personally by Richard and Michelle Lee-Costello — a trusted, family-run team delivering meticulous, Trading Standards approved leather care throughout Hampshire.
