Expert: Mark H. Miller - 4/23/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi Mark,
I have a synthetic leather recliner and recently the leather on the headrest gets
stiff and irritates my neck. Any suggestions how to soften it? I was thinking
shaving cream?

ANSWER: Hi,

Unfortunately there is little that can be done,  the drying out and cracking is caused by salt on the skin.  Placing a soft cloth over the affected area will prevent it from getting even worse.

Instead of shaving cream you may be better off to use a very good grade dishwashing detergent to clean the affected area,  remember your goal is to remove the salt that is on the surface and has penetrated.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.

Mark Miller.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Mark,
Thank you for your prompt reply. The leather worsened so I re-upholstered
the recliner with micro-fiber suede. The upholstery people did a remarkable
job and the chair is extremely soft & comfortable now. The only problem is
the the sofa looks very patchy. I had chosen from a set of color
samples(chocolate brown) which looked evenly shaded. The upholstery
people informed me that this is how the micro-fiber finish is, but I was
wondering if this is just an excuse. I was thinking if the patchy effect is
because I chose a darker color. Also is there anyway I can reduce the
luster/shine or will it reduce on use.  

Answer
Hi,

What you describe is indeed normal for ultra suede,  it has a small nap, like a velvet or a carpet with a nap.  This will show areas of different shades which is normal.  Ultra suede is made to mimic real suede which does exactly the same thing.

A common complaint is that the fabric appears soiled in certain areas. In time it may become less noticeable as the nap wears away, although that should take some time, the ultra suede is doing exactly what it is supposed to do.    

The color you choose, in my opinion, would have little effect on noticing the shading.

The upholsterers explanation is correct,  your only viable argument can be that had you been shown a large "memo sample" which is 27" X 27" you could have noticed the shading.  

What you experience is an unfortunate side effect of reupholstering, in that it doesn't always come out the way it was envisioned, it's really no one's fault.  

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.

Mark Miller.