Two very inexpensive products you probably have around your house are Vaseline and shaving cream. Both have been proven to soften leather. To apply Vaseline, use a clean, dry cloth and rub it in until the surface of the leather feels dry. Use a second dry cloth to remove any excess and avoid greasy residue. Apply shaving cream with a clean, damp cloth. Rub it into the leather for a much softer finish.

Saddle soap is another great, inexpensive option to soften leather sofas. It also conditions the leather and helps prevent cracking. Other home remedies include mink oil, lanolin or a mixture of 500 g of milk balm and 100 ml of glycerin to cheaply cover large surfaces.

Always test out leather softening agents, whether you are using a home remedy or commercial product. Choose an inconspicuous area of the couch to try out the product, in case it has adverse effects. If you know the manufacturer of your leather sofa, contact it to obtain a list of products that are appropriate to use. In some cases, using products that aren’t approved can violate the terms of your warranty.

Many new leather sofas feel stiff at first, but keep in mind it will soften over time with regular use. Avoid always sitting in the same spot. Change it up so the leather will wear evenly. If an old leather sofa is stiff and the leather is cracking, it might be time to give in and buy a new sofa.