How to Care for Fabric and Leather Dining Chairs

Jul 10, 2025
How to Care for Fabric and Leather Dining Chairs

In any dining area, dining chairs are essential pieces of furniture that go beyond providing seating – they influence the overall aesthetic. Choosing the right material ensures that your chairs offer the perfect blend of comfort, style, and longevity.

Best materials for dining chairs

Velvet

Velvet is a luxurious fabric, its soft feel and visual appeal can turn any dining area into an inviting space. Velvet is especially ideal for grand dining rooms that need a touch of glamour. However, it requires regular care. Dusting and vacuuming are essential to maintain its plush look, as well as ensuring that it is not exposed to direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time. 

Boucle

Boucle dining chairs have an unmistakable look. The texture of the fabric, made from loops of yarn, gives an earthy and organic feel. Its rough appearance complements a variety of interior styles, from rustic to modern. Although the boucle is durable, it needs careful maintenance. Regular vacuuming, avoiding sharp objects, and periodic steam cleaning will keep boucle chairs looking fresh and comfortable for years. If you're adding chairs to a kitchen or dining area, boucle kitchen chairs offer a cozy, textured experience while remaining easy to clean.

Wood

Wooden chairs are a timeless classic. Solid wood dining chairs made from ash veneer or walnut wood bring warmth to any dining area. These materials not only look good but are also durable. The maintenance of wooden chairs typically involves occasional waxing or polishing to protect the wood from scratches and enhance its natural grain. 

Metal

For a more industrial flair, metal chairs are an excellent choice. Known for their strength, these chairs often have sleek designs that blend well in both modern and traditional spaces. Metal dining chairs are particularly lightweight, making them perfect for households that need to rearrange seating frequently. When selecting metal chairs, consider options like armless dining chairs for a simpler, more streamlined look. To preserve their longevity, regularly clean them to prevent rust build-up, and be sure to treat them with rust prevention products to maintain their finish. 

Dining chair care tips

Caring for fabric chairs

Fabric dining chairs require consistent care to preserve their aesthetic appeal and functionality. 

  • Vacuum the surface regularly helps to eliminate dust and debris that accumulate over time. 
  • Use fabric-specific cleaners or mild soapy water to remove stains. Make sure to treat stains immediately to avoid permanent damage. 
  • If your chairs have removable cushions, remember to fluff them regularly to maintain their shape and comfort.
  • Boucle kitchen chairs, known for their textural design, need special attention. Since boucle fabric is more delicate, avoid placing them in areas where they could easily get damaged. 
  • Steam cleaning every few months helps to remove deep-set dirt while keeping the fabric fresh and soft. 
  • Harsh chemicals can damage fabric, so always opt for cleaners specifically designed for the material.
  • Boucle kitchen chairs, known for their textural design, need special attention. Vacuum them regularly with a soft brush attachment and gently spot clean with a fabric-specific cleaner to prevent damage to the delicate texture.

Caring for leather dining chairs

Leather dining chairs bring a sophisticated feel to your dining area. However, like any other material, leather requires proper care to extend its life. 

  • Use a dry cloth to gently wipe your leather upholstered chair and remove any dust. Avoid using a damp cloth, as moisture can damage the leather. 
  • Use a specialized leather cleaner to remove grime and to keep the surface looking shiny and polished.
  • Leather also needs moisture to prevent it from drying out. Apply a leather conditioner or oil to moisturize the material and prevent cracks or stiffness. 
  • As with fabric chairs, avoid placing leather chairs in direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the leather to fade or dry out over time. 
  • Additionally, leather chairs are vulnerable to scratches, so always be mindful of sharp objects in your dining area.
  • Protect your black leather dining chairs by using a weather protectant if they are placed in more humid or variable conditions. Regular treatment will help ensure that your leather furniture lasts for years to come.

Whether you prefer boucle dining chairs, metal frames or solid wood options, understanding how to care for dining chairs ensures that your seating remains as comfortable and attractive as the day you brought it home. Proper cleaning methods and use of eco-friendly protectants will help keep your furniture looking fresh for a long time and preserve the beauty of your dining area. If you want to complement your new chairs, consider pairing them with extendable dining tables for added versatility and seating capacity.