So, I finally got to the stage of making the sofa investment, and I knew it was necessary to get it right by making the best decision. It was tough to decide which to invest in, so I began to compare leather vs. fabric sofas to know the one that was best for me.
A sofa is one of the vital points of the space where people live, so one should endeavor to make the best buying decision. It has a unique way of adding a touch of elegance to a room no matter its size and goes a long way to show your sense of style and quality.
Leather Vs. Fabric Sofa
Finding and settling on the best material may be tedious, but it’s worth it in the long run. Do you love the natural feel of leather or the comfort of snuggling in a fabric sofa? Or do you wonder which is more durable, leather or fabric sofa? You’re not alone.
I researched, asked questions, and got the best sofa for me. I’m here to share the knowledge with you and help you to decide the best sofa material when it’s time to make this significant investment. Please read on.
Leather Sofa
A leather sofa has a sitting space for a good number of people at the same time. It has several seating options, like the love seats designed for two people and the sectional sofas with individual seats.
This bench seat comes with various types of leather upholstery and has seat cushions and two arms. It sometimes functions as a sleeper sofa for a comfortable sleep, just like a bed.
Pros of Leather Sofa
A leather sofa has many advantages that make lots of people love it. Such advantages include the following:
Natural: as you already know, leather comes from tanned animal hides, a natural source. It is distinct, able to keep its original markings, and has the rare quality of becoming more supple with time. So, it becomes better with use.
Easy Maintenance: most leather sofas are resistant to stains. They repel spills, and you can quickly clean off dust and food particles by wiping them with a clean cloth.
It is also necessary to know how to easily clean leather furniture with the proper leather care kit. Such good care will help the leather last several years and still look good.
Hypoallergenic: if you or someone at home suffers from an allergy, then a leather sofa is your best choice. The leather holds off allergens such as pet hair, dust mites, pet dander, etc., that could gather on a fabric sofa.
Cons of Leather Sofa
As much as leather sofas have many advantages, they also have some drawbacks. Some disadvantages of leather furniture include:
Expensive: most leather sofas cost lot more than fabric sofas, and many people may not be able to afford them. The prices vary according to the grade and quality of the leather. That’s why getting a set is seen as huge investment.
Visible Scratches: leather sofas can get scratched easily, and they’ll show. The scratch comes from human daily activities or pets that love to climb furniture. I’ve seen people who place protective layers over their leather sofas to avoid direct scratches on the leather.
Firm and Retains Heat: leather sofas tend to retain heat in the summer, causing your skin to stick to the upholstery, and it keeps cold in the cold season, giving that initial chill when you sit on it. It’s also firmer and offers less comfort than fabric.
Fabric Sofa
A fabric sofa has seats for many people to sit on at a time. This furniture is made with various fabric types like; cotton, wool, silk, and linen. Some have blends of natural and synthetic fibers like acrylic, polyester, olefin, etc., to make them last longer.
Pros of Fabric Sofa
Fabric sofas come with lots of advantages. They include:
Budget-friendly: normally, fabric sofas are readily available and budget-friendly. Its cost tends to differ because it comes in various fabric types. The cost of getting it is lower than getting leather sofas.
Variety: you can see fabric sofas in various styles, materials, patterns, and colors that make it easy to choose what suits your personality. You can also select the color that matches your home décor to give it a distinguished look.
Comfortable: comfort is one of the popular features of fabric sofas. They’re fluffy, soft, and pliable. Please note that the fabric’s quality determines the sofa’s comfort level. So, it’s best to go for high-quality fabric that won’t crease fast when one stands up from a sitting or lying position.
Cons of Fabric Sofa
Although fabric sofa offers good comfort, variety, and other advantages, it has some disadvantages, which include:
Special Cleaning: fabric sofas get stained more easily. These stains become visible and require deep cleaning to remove them so they don’t ruin the fabric’s color. Aside from stains, there’s a need to vacuum-clean the sofa often to remove dust and dirt.
Harbors Allergens: fabrics can gather and hold dirt, dust, mold, and other allergens. This factor makes it unsuitable for those who suffer from allergies or those prone to allergies.
May Retain Bad Smells: fabric sofas tend to soak up unpleasant smells and make them linger for several days, and that’s not something anyone wants to experience. So, you may have to consider it before getting a fabric sofa.
Leather Vs. Fabric Sofa Difference
| Leather Sofa | Fabric Sofa |
| Usually very expensive. | Less expensive. |
| Less variety as it usually comes only in dark shades of black, brown, or white. | More variety in color, styles, designs, etc., |
| The material is not washable. | Material is easily washable. |
| Very durable. | Less durable. |
| Easier to clean and maintain. | Not so easy to clean and maintain. |
Leather Vs. Fabric Sofa Price
Leather sofas are usually more expensive than fabric sofas. The reason of this is the process and cost of leather production. Fabric sofas cost less than leather sofas most times, but some high-quality varieties may be about the same price as good leather sofas.
Also, while considering the price of both leather and fabric sofas, I think it’s advisable to factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs.
Leather Vs. Fabric Sofa Durability
Fabric sofas tend to take wear and tear. However, they can only withstand it for a limited time because the wear and tear become visible after a few years, especially in mid-range fabrics. Fortunately, high-quality fabric materials have more endurance.
Leather sofas, on the other hand, are usually more durable than most sofas made of other materials. The reason is leather material is sturdier and can withstand everyday use.
However, it is necessary to note that low-quality leather may not be as durable as premium-quality sofas, which are usually expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Which is better for sofa? Leather or fabric?
Both materials are great for a sofa as they have excellent features. Both of them come in cute styles and offer comfort. The key is to find out what’s best for you, and as you consider leather or fabric sofa advantages, don’t forget to check out their disadvantage too. Such proper consideration will help you make a better buying decision.
Is it worth getting a leather sofa?
Definitely! Leather sofas made with high-quality leather are worth every penny spent. They add a classy touch and warmth to a room, and make it inviting. They can last for several years with proper maintenance. So, if your budget can carry it, it’s worth it.
Why is leather better than fabric?
Many people believe leather is better than fabric because leather is a more natural material that adapts easily to temperature conditions. The material is easy to clean, doesn’t house allergens, and can withstand daily use, making it very durable.
However, it still needs proper care, maintenance, and protection against scratching by a rough or sharp object.
Are leather sofas out of style?
Leather sofas are still in vogue and look like they’ll still be around for several years. Leather is an all-time classy piece that never goes out of style but always stands out year after year. So, if a leather sofa is what you want and you have what it takes, don’t let anything stop you.
Which type of sofa is best for the living room?
I feel it has to be the sofa that suits you best. The one that’s comfortable, stylish, classy, and works with your budget. Leather sofas are great for living rooms, just like fabric sofas that come in wide varieties. So, choose what’s comfortable for you and your living room.
How much should I spend on a leather sofa?
Leather sofas come in various leather types, grades, and qualities. It is best to purchase high-quality leather when buying a sofa to ensure you get all its benefits, which include durability.
The best leather types are full-grain and top-grain leather. You may have to budget between $2000 to $8000 or more to get a good quality leather sofa.
Does leather last longer than fabric?
Leather tends to be more durable than fabric because it is a sturdy material that withstands wear and tear. It is easy to clean as you can wipe off dirt with a soft cloth, and stains also go off quickly if you apply the tips on removing stains from leather sofas.
But fabric wears out faster, may retain stains, and appear old in a few years. However, it also depends on each material’s quality and the level of maintenance they receive.
Final Words
There’s no incorrect response when it comes to comparing a leather vs. fabric sofa, as they come in various exciting styles and designs. Both sofa materials have pros and cons, and different individuals express their style through the one they prefer.
For me, what’s important is to consider their durability, comfort, requirements for maintenance, and budget. These careful considerations will help you choose what suits you best, and whatever you do, remember to buy a high-quality sofa to get maximum value.
