Leather Vs. Fabric - Which Upholstery is Right For You
When it comes to choosing the right upholstery for your furniture, the decision between leather and fabric can be a tough one. Both materials have their own unique characteristics and benefits. So, how do you decide which upholstery is right for you?
Durability and Longevity
If sheer durability is your main concern, leather is hard to beat. It is an abrasive resistant material that can withstand heavy wear and tear and is particularly difficult to puncture.
When it comes to fabric, there are a wider array of options that preform differently. Some fabrics may hold up great to abrasion (think pet nails) while others excel in their stain resistance. Ask your friendly furniture experts at WTrade Furniture about the recommended fabric for your needs.
Comfort and Feel
Comfort is subjective, but here are the facts:
Leather:
- Tends to have a luxurious feel
- Feels cooler year round
- Is natural - meaning your skin is not in contact with any man-made material
- Softens and molds slightly to your body overtime
Fabric:
- Has a more balanced temperature - cool in the summer, cozy in the winter
- Is breathable
- Soft and inviting
Maintenance and Care
Leather upholstery is easy to clean and maintain. Spills can be easily wiped off, and leather can be conditioned to prevent drying and cracking.
Fabric upholstery, can be more prone to staining. However, many sofas have performance fabric options such as Ashley's Nuvella fabric, which is stain resistant, treatable, and oftentimes machine washable. You can find performance fabrics like Nuvella at your local furniture store, WTrade Furniture, in White Bear Lake, MN.
Style and Aesthetics
Both leather and fabric upholstery come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures to suit any style or aesthetic preference. Leather upholstery tends to give a more luxurious and sophisticated look, while fabric upholstery offers more versatility in terms of design options.
Cost
If it seems like leather has had the upper hand in this comparison, cost may be the great equalizer. Items with leather upholstery generally cost 20-50% more than their fabric counterparts. Being a natural material, leather is most costly to source, which increases its price. The real question is: are its benefits worth it to you?
In the end, neither fabric or leather are better than the other. They each offer unique advantages. If you're still not sure which is better for you, our furniture experts are here to help. Stop by or give us a call today! Contact us