How to Identify Genuine Leather Sofas
Genuine leather furniture can last decades and add a timeless design to a space. However the process of identifying genuine leather sofas from "split," "bonded," and faux (fake) leather options isn't easy.
Find rough or uneven edges to determine the leather is genuine. True leather will also have an uneven underside or "fat wrinkles".
Top-grain
A leather sofa will last for years. If you take good care of it, a quality leather sofa will last as long as three textile sofas. If you don't look after it, it will last a few years before it begins to peel off and crack. A good way to protect your leather furniture is by using a leather preservative that keeps it soft and flexible.
Choose sofas made of full-grain, the highest quality leather. This kind of leather has not been polished or buffed, which means it will keep its original appearance. This makes it easier to match the texture and color of the leather to your current home decor.
While full-grain leather can be a more expensive option than top-grain leather, it offers several advantages over other types of leather. It is more robust and can be dyed to a variety of colors. It is also breathable, which means it will keep you cool during the summer and warm in the winter. Full-grain is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers since it does not hold pet dander and dust mites like upholstery fabric.
The top-grain leather is commonly used in leather sofas. It has been polished, buffed, and sanded to remove any imperfections. This reduces the durability, but gives the leather a uniform appearance and feel. This type of leather is commonly used in luxury leather products due to its being cheaper and softer than full grain.
When you are looking to purchase a leather sofa, it's important to know the difference between top-grain and full-grain. While both types of leather are durable, full-grain is a more resilient material than top-grain which is less durable and could be damaged if not properly taken care of.
Full-grain
A leather sofa is a stylish option for any living space. You can dress it up with accent pillows and woven throws for colour or opt for a more basic design for a more subtle style. The type of leather used in the sofa's construction will determine its style and durability. A high-quality leather will not only last for a long time, but will also become more beautiful with use. Full-grain leather is the best because it retains the natural texture and marks of the original hide and is breathable. It also develops over time a rich patina, which is widely sought-after by leather lovers.
The top grain leather has been sanded to eliminate any imperfections. The sanding and buffing and cracking of leather is also reduced through the process. The tanning process can also be harmful to the environment. Processes that are not based on chrome are available for those who want to minimize their impact.
Full-grain leather is more expensive than top-grain, however, it is more robust and resistant to wear and tear. It is also easier to maintain since it requires just an occasional cleaning with an easy-to-clean cloth. It is a great choice for those who wish to avoid the hassle of fabric sofas, but are unwilling to spend the extra money on the best leather sofa.
When you are shopping for a leather sofa, you might find it difficult to find a fully grain model than one with a top grain. It is possible to visit a store to examine the sofa and test its durability. Additionally, you can ask about the process of tanning and how it affects the leather.
Choosing the appropriate color for your leather sofa is an important consideration. Traditional colors like dark navy blue might seem outdated but they are a good match with most decor styles. The shape and height are important aspects to consider. Sofas with thin or tapered legs will appear more modern and those with turned or spindle legs are suited to the more traditional style of the interior.
Semi-aniline
When people visit our showroom, they often have a variety of questions. They might be interested in knowing what kinds of leather we have, or they might need help understanding industry jargon. This is especially relevant for those who are considering buying a leather sofa. Leather is a well-known upholstery material in both homes and commercial buildings However, a lot of people aren't aware of the different finishes used to make these items.
We're often asked what is the difference between aniline leather and semi-aniline? Both are top grain leather but they have some important distinctions. Aniline leather has a natural appearance and soft texture, however it is also more fragile. This type of leather is susceptible to fade from exposure to sunlight and may be stained by spilled liquids. If it is not cared for properly, it can dry out and crack with time. Due to its fragility aniline leather requires a high level of maintenance.
In contrast semi-aniline leather is treated with a light surface coating to offer more durability. This treatment process makes the leather more resistant to staining and fade. This finish also helps to keep its natural appearance and soft feel.
Although it does not have the unbeatable natural look or soft feel of full aniline grain semi-aniline leather is stunning. This type of leather is favored by many families due to its both beauty and security.
Pigmented leather is the strongest kind of leather. It is more resistant to stains and scratches than other kinds. This makes it an excellent choice for families with children or pets. Pigmented leather also needs less maintenance than other types of leather.
If it is not properly maintained, colored or other types of leather can crack and dry out over time. To keep your leather moist and to prevent it from cracking or drying out it is recommended you treat it at least twice each year. If you are shopping for an old leather sofa, be sure to check the quality of the leather before buying it. This will ensure that you receive the best quality item at a reasonable price.
Bonded
Leather lovers avoid bonded leather or fake leather furniture. The reason is simple - bonded leather is made of pieces of shredded material and fibers which are glued together and covered with polyurethane and embossed to resemble leather. It's not as durable and is often damaged, cracks, peels or scratches quickly. It is not as soft and supple as genuine leather, either. A sofa covered in bonded leather might look attractive in a showroom but will not last.
When shopping for used leather sofas, look for genuine top-grain leather. This type of leather is more soft and more flexible than faux leather, and it will also look better. It is easy to spot the difference between a genuine and fake piece of leather, however you can also find out by looking at the grain characteristics. Look for natural markings on the hide, wrinkles, and scarring, as well as fat wrinkles that are caused by the animal's fat deposits. These marks are what make genuine leather appealing.
Another way to tell if it's the genuine leather sofa is by feeling it. Genuine leather feels warmer during the winter months, and cooler during summer. The leather that is bonded is more stiff and doesn't adjust to your body temperature. Genuine leather will wear gracefully over time and develop a deep patina.
It is possible to purchase a used genuine leather sofa for a good price however it will require more upkeep than a bonded or faux leather piece. A good cleaning routine will keep it soft and supple for a long period of time. First, clean the furniture piece using a dry cloth to remove any debris or dirt. Then, make a mild soap solution by adding some drops of liquid detergent to water. Dip a dry, clean cloth into the solution and rub it onto the leather surface.
After cleaning your couch, wipe it clean with a an unclean, non-detergent cloth. You should also apply a leather conditioner every year or once. This will help maintain the quality of the leather and stop it from drying out and cracking with time. Also, protect your furniture made of leather from direct sunlight as it is susceptible to degrading very quickly.