How to Identify Genuine Leather Sofas
Genuine leather furniture can last for decades and add a timeless design to a space. It can be difficult to differentiate between genuine leather and "split", "bonded" or faux (fake leather) alternatives.
Look for rough or uneven edges to determine the product is genuinely leather. A bumpy underside and "fat wrinkles" are also indicators of genuine leather.
Top-grain
A leather sofa is a significant investment that will last for a long time. If you take care of it, a good leather sofa can last as long as three textile sofas. If you don't, it will last for a few years before it starts to peel and crack. Use a leather preserver to keep your furniture's leather soft and smooth.
You should also consider a sofa that is made of full-grain leather which is the best quality leather available. This kind of leather has not been cleaned or buffed, and so it will maintain its original appearance. This lets you match the leather's texture and color to your existing decor.
While full-grain leather is more expensive option than top-grain, it does have many advantages over other types of leather. It is more durable and it can be dyed in a variety colors. It's also breathable, so it keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter. Full-grain is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, as it does not trap pet dander and dust mites like upholstery fabric.
The other kind of leather used in leather sofas is top grain leather that has been buffed and sanded to remove imperfections. This reduces the durability, yet gives the leather a uniform look and feel. This type of leather is available in a wide range of luxury leather items because it is more soft than full grain leather and cheaper.
Before you buy a leather sofa, it's important to understand the distinction between top-grain and full-grain. Both kinds of leather are high quality however, full-grain leather is more durable than top-grain.
Full-grain
A leather sofa adds a touch of class to any space. It can be outfitted with throws and accent pillows to add a splash of color or kept simple for a more understated look. The type of leather used to make a sofa will determine its design and durability. A quality leather will not only stand up with time, but also become more beautiful and unique as it is used. Full-grain leather is the best because it keeps the natural texture and marks of the original hide and is also breathable. It also develops over time a rich patina that is highly sought-after by leather lovers.
The main difference between full-grain and top grain leather is that the latter is buffed and sanded in order to eliminate imperfections. The sanding and buffing and cracking of the leather is reduced by the process. The tanning process can also cause harm to the environment. Chrome-free processes are offered for those looking to minimize their impact.
Full-grain is more expensive, but is also more robust and resistant to wear. It is also easy to maintain since it requires only a gentle wipe with an abrasive cloth. It is a great choice for those who do not wish to maintain their sofas made of fabric but don't want to spend more money on leather products.
When you are shopping for a leather sofa you may find it harder to locate a full grain model than one with a top grain. You may want to visit a showroom where you can look at the sofa in person and touch it to test its texture and durability. Additionally, you can ask about the tanning process and how it affects the leather.
Another important consideration is choosing the appropriate color of leather for your sofa. Shades like dark navy or tan butterscotch may appear outdated but they are a good fit with a variety of styles. Other factors to consider are the shape and height of the sofa. Sofas with thin or tapered legs are modern, whereas those that have turned or spindle feet are suitable for an old-fashioned interior design.
Semi-aniline
Many people have questions whenever they visit our showroom. They may be interested in knowing what kinds of leathers we offer or require help in understanding terminology used in the industry. This is especially relevant for buyers who are looking to purchase a leather sofa. Leather is a popular material for upholstery in both residential and commercial structures. However, many consumers do not know the different finishes that are utilized to create these furniture.
We're often asked: What's the difference between aniline leather and semi-aniline leather? Both are top-grain, however, there are some significant distinctions. Aniline leather has a natural look and soft feel, but it is also more fragile. This kind of leather may fade from exposure to sunlight and it is prone to staining from spilled liquids. It may also dry out and crack when it is not properly taken care of. Aniline leather is fragile and requires a lot of care.
Semi-aniline leather, on other hand, is treated with a thin surface coating for greater durability. This treatment process gives the leather a greater resistance to fading and staining. In addition, this finish aids in keeping the leather's natural appearance and softness.
While it doesn't have the unmatched natural look and 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 protection.
Pigmented leather is the strongest kind of leather. It is more resistant to scratches, stains, and fading than other types of leather. This makes it a great option for families with pets or children. It also requires less care than other kinds of leather.
As with other types of leather, pigmented leather is prone to drying out and crack in time if it does not receive proper maintenance. To keep your leather hydrated and to keep it from cracking or drying out it is recommended you condition it at least twice each year. If you are looking for an old leather sofa, be sure to check the quality of the leather prior to buying it. If you do this you can ensure that you are receiving a high-quality product at a fair price.
Bonded
Many leather lovers stay clear of fake or bonded leather furniture. The reason is simple: bonded leather is made of fragments of shredded materials and fibers that are then glued together and covered with polyurethane and embossed to appear like leather. It is not durable and can crack, peel or scratches quickly. It is not as soft or soft as genuine leather. A sofa covered in bonded leather might look attractive in a showroom, but will not last.
When you are looking for used leather sofas, search for genuine top-grain leather. This type of leather will be softer and more flexible than fake leather, and it will also look better. It is easy to tell the difference between a genuine and fake piece of leather, however you can also determine by looking at the grain characteristics. You should look for natural marks on the hide, wrinkles, and scarring and fat wrinkles caused by fat deposits of the animal. Genuine leather is distinguished by these marks.
Another way to identify a genuine leather sofa is by feeling it. Genuine leather is warmer in the winter months and cooler in summer. Bonded leather is stiffer and doesn't acclimate to your body temperature. Genuine leather will age gracefully and will develop an attractive patina.
Although you can purchase an authentic second-hand leather sofa for a reasonable price but it is important to keep in mind that it will require more maintenance than a bonded or faux leather piece. Full Statement will keep it looking nice and soft for an extended period of time. Dust the furniture piece using a dry rag to remove any 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 over the leather surface.
After cleaning your couch, wipe it clean with a the clean, non-detergent fabric. It is also recommended to apply a leather conditioner at least every two or three years. This will help to maintain the quality of the leather and stop it from drying out and cracking over time. Also, protect your furniture made of leather from direct sunlight, since it can degrade very quickly.