Leather vs. Fabric Sofas

Investing in a new sofa is an exciting selection process, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. It really depends on your home, style and needs. When choosing furniture, people have difficulty choosing between leather and fabric. The answer depends on you. Here are a few factors to consider.

Style

Fabric sofas can be purchased in a wider variety of colors and patterns, so there is greater style potential with a wider variety available. Leather couches, however, come in a range of solid shades, though they can be artfully distressed to change the style of the furniture for a little variation. Fabric gives you more of a range, although you can get imaginative to a certain extent with leather. Both leather and fabric furniture can be accessorised with lamp tables and other wooden furniture for a refined and sophisticated look.

Comfort

The comfort level of fabric depends on the type of fabric you choose. You can purchase fabric furniture ranging from thick, casual denims to fine, formal fabrics. Many people find fabric couches to be more comfortable as leather tends to be hot and stickier on the skin. Leather warms to your body when you sit, creating a heated effect. Fabric feels more like a soft jacket or clothes.

Fabric sofas can create a cool contemporary look

Easy Cleaning

Leather features a protective, nonabsorbent surface, so it is easier to clean. Dust and hair sits on the surface of the leather, so it's easier on people who have allergies or pets. Fabric furniture absorbs spills and stains, making it harder to clean. Pet hair tends to stick to fabric furniture, which may pose a problem to allergies. Leather tends to last longer for this reason.

Durability

Much stronger than man-made fabrics, leather will last. Not only will it last longer than fabric, its appearance generally improves with age. You don't need to retire a leather couch if you keep it in good condition. Fabric doesn't last as long, but you'll get more use out of it if you choose a thick, dark fabric that’s easy to clean.

Leather makes for a smooth, sophisticated look

Cost

Leather usually costs much more than fabric furniture, so some may avoid buying leather for this reason. On the other hand, many are attracted to the look and durability, knowing they'll get much longer use out of leather furniture than they would with a fabric option. Fabric generally costs less, although this is not always the case, depending on the quality and thickness of the fabric. By opting for a cheaper fabric sofa, you may save enough for a new coffee table or sideboard.

Factors to Consider

How long of a use do you want out of the furniture? If this is a temporary decoration fix and you don't want to invest a lot of money, you can get a quality piece of furniture without too much investment. If you plan to hand the furniture down the generations, however, leather is probably the way to go. Instead of looking ragged with age, it actually improves with age.

Also consider the climate of your home. If you live in air conditioning during most of the summer, leather is not a bad option. If you enjoy open windows to let in the summer air, fabric furniture may be more conducive to naps. It all depends on your purpose and taste considerations.