Cleaning Codes of Leather Upholstery
Cleaning codes usually can be found on the decking material that supports the seat cushions, or on the bottom of the furniture.
“A” code (Aniline):
- Aniline leather (AKA: Natural, Pure, Naked, or Unprotected.)
- These leathers are colored with transparent dyes. This means that you are able to see the actual surface grain and markings in the leather.
- These leathers have very little or no protective treatments applied to them (which is why the store will apply a spray protector when a customer buys a Protection 1ST protection plan).
- Aniline leather is especially sensitive to sunlight and should not be placed in front of windows or under skylights.
“P” code (Protected):
- Protected leather (AKA: Finished, Semi-Aniline, Pigmented, or Painted.)
- These leathers are colored with the application of pigments to the surface of the leather. It then has a finish applied to the surface that makes the leather more resistant to the effects of heavy use. Protected leathers are the most common leather, and for most consumers, the most practical.
- While Protected leather is more resistant to sunlight, precautions should be taken to avoid placing furniture in direct sunlight. All materials will fade over time when placed in direct sunlight.
“N” code (Nubuck): NOTE: none of the Protection 1ST Plans cover “N” coded leather.
- Nubuck leather (AKA: Distressed, Bomber, Brushed, Buffed, Split Grain, or Suede.)
- These leathers are actually Aniline leathers where the surface has been brushed to create a texture similar to velvet on leather.
- Nubuck is usually very high-end leather (expensive). Suede is usually not as durable as “top grain” leather.
- Excluded because Protection 1ST is intended to cover the majority of leather furniture (mid-range) not high-end furniture.