Our Leather Upholstery Cleaning course consists of four modules:

1. What is Leather?
2. Leather Finishes.
3. Leather Identification.
4. Leather Cleaning.

The What is Leather? module introduces learners to the origins, properties, and production processes of leather. Students explore how hides are preserved, tanned, split, dyed, and finished, along with the factors that affect quality such as age, breed, and environment. This foundation builds understanding of how leather is created, why it behaves the way it does, and the implications for cleaning and maintenance.

The Leather Finishes module covers the wide variety of finishes applied to leather and how these influence cleaning outcomes. Students learn to differentiate between absorbent finishes like aniline, nubuck, and suede, and protected finishes such as pigmented leathers. Cleaning methods, risks, and protective treatments for each type are explored, along with special finishes and artificial leathers. This ensures technicians can set correct customer expectations and apply the right procedures.

The Leather Identification module provides practical field tests to determine leather type, including visual, touch, scratch, and liquid absorption tests. Students also learn to recognise common problems such as colour loss, soiling behaviour, and finish wear. Pre-inspection procedures are emphasised, giving cleaners the tools to assess risks, document conditions, and communicate effectively with customers.

The Cleaning Process module brings together theory and practice, covering detailed cleaning techniques for pigmented, aniline, and nubuck leathers. It includes foam application methods, de-greasing treatments for oily areas, protective re-coatings, and customer communication about patina changes and finish variations. Safety procedures for chemical use, handling, and on-site practices are also highlighted to ensure professional and risk-free service delivery.

The Leather Upholstery Cleaning course is ideal for professional carpet cleaners who want to upskill and expand their service offerings into leather cleaning. By adding leather care to their business, cleaners can capture additional revenue streams, differentiate themselves from competitors, and provide premium services that many operators cannot offer. It is particularly suited to those looking to maximise profitability by servicing both carpets and leather furnishings within the same client base.