>>> So i tried laying a paper towel soaked in mild dish soap on one cushion for an hour
Always check the pH value of products used as all alkaline pH values above 7 will need to be neutralized with a low pH acidic rinse to return the pH value of leather to the acidic side of the pH scale, more relevant in natural than protecta finishes. With a pH value above 7 on the protecta finishes will degrade the finish to stickiness or tackiness to the surface to attract dirt and soiling like a magnet.
>>> I'm wondering if there is a better way and what the best approach is to restore these sofas?
A holistic leather-safe system is by a restorative cleaning system:
Note:
Phase 2 and phase 3 are limited to the stitching holes, as generally, a protecta finish is non-absorbent.
Restorative Care:
This is the ultimate restorative or salvage care system that removes accumulated soiling including aged conditioners. Accumulated soiling that fills creases is often mistaken for cracks. Using Prep-7.7 performs restorative cleaning. It works by chemical reaction to emulsify soiling through its penetrating, lubricating and suspending power. Horsehair detailing Brush-1 is recommended to work into heavily soiled areas sufficiently to avoid excessive agitation that might damage already weakened finishes, especially on heavily used areas.
1st phase - Restorative Cleaning:
1 - Apply Prep-7.7 and agitate with horsehair Brush-1, ensuring a uniform application over the entire surfaces a section at a time.
2 - Allow a dwell time of 10 to 30 minutes or before it dries prior to towel extraction until it shows clean.
3 - Sticky residue is removed by Clean-3.8 with gentle brush agitation and towel extracts until it shows clean.
4 - Remaining residues are spray rinse with Rinse-3.0 and towel extracts to a squeaky-clean.
5 - Let dry and inspect for satisfaction, otherwise repeat the cleaning process as necessary or proceed to hydrating.
2nd phase – Hydrating:
Hydrating is essential to relax and separate the stick together collapsing fibrous structure. It's surfactantcy or surface active agent helps check for surface tension of blotchiness prior to fatliquor replenishing.
1 - Spray Hydrator-3.3 to saturate with an even appearance to soften up the leather.
2 - Let it dwell 10 to 30 minutes and towel extract wick up soiling until it shows clean.
3rd phase – Fatliquoring:
Fat and oil replenishing maintains the leather’s structure integrity and pliability thus strengthening these exposed leather from cracking.
1 - Spray Fatliquor-5.0 in a manner as Hydrator-3.3 and let it dry naturally.
2 - Repeat application in between drying until saturated.
3 - The leather is left for slow natural drying for extra softness.
4 - Surface strays are wiped with Hydrator-3.3 to free of sticky residue.
4th phase – Preventive Care:
1 - Mist sprays Protector-B spread with a lint-free towel and is ready for use when dry.
https://www.leatherdoctor.com/leather-semi-aniline-care-kit-sa3/
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Roger Koh
Leather, Skin, Hair, Eye & Acne Care System Formulator
Consultant / Practitioner / Instructor / Coach
web: www.leatherdoctor.com
forum: www.leathercleaningrestorationforum.com
email:
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