Leather vs. fabric upholstery: 5 essentials to consider
Leather or fabric? Beyond aesthetics, take the time to consider your family, budget and comfort preferences to choose the right option for you. Photo courtesy Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress
If the time has come to refresh your living room furnishings, one of the first decisions will be the upholstery.
More specifically for many, leather or fabric?
While personal preference will definitely factor into your decision, you’ll have a few other considerations, too.
“We spend so much time in our living and family rooms – time with friends, family or just relaxing with a good movie or the big game, you want the space to be appealing, comfortable, and to suit your family’s needs,” notes Love Dodd, from Dodd’s Furniture and Mattress.
Here’s a look at the pros and cons of both options, including durability, comfort, maintenance, style and cost.
- Durability. Typically, leather is more durable, though we’ve seen some great improvements on the fabric front – you just need to know where to look or who to ask for help, Dodd notes.
Leather can withstand regular wear and tear and is resistant to stains and spills, making it a popular choice for households with children or pets.
Fabric furniture may be prone to wear and tear, especially if it’s made of a delicate or lightweight fabric, however, you can find fabrics made with high-performance fibres that are durable and stain-resistant.
- Comfort. Both leather and fabric furniture have their own benefits. Leather is known for its softness and flexibility, and can be naturally cool to the touch, making it an excellent choice for warm climates.
Fabric furniture offers a variety of comforts and textures, making it easier to find a fabric that suits your individual preferences. “Find the perfect sofa, but not in the colour or fabric you like? We offer customizing options to make sure your living room is perfect for you,” Dodd says.
- Maintenance. Leather furniture requires relatively little upkeep so is great for busy families. Wipe it with a damp cloth to remove dust and spills, and it typically needs to be conditioned just once or twice a year to keep it looking its best.
Depending on your home, fabric may require more frequent cleaning to remove spills and stains, or a quick vacuum if the kids like to snack on the sofa or it’s your pet’s favourite nap spot.
- Style. Both leather and fabric furniture offer a range of options, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice style for your chosen material.
You’ll find more colours, shades and finishes in leather all the time, beyond its classic deep browns. When it comes to fabric, the hardest part can be narrowing the selections to find the one best-suited to your home.
- Cost. When it comes to cost, leather furniture is typically more expensive than fabric, but the higher price tag can also come with a longer life. Fabric furniture, on the other hand, can be found at a range of price points, from budget-friendly to high-end.
Leather or fabric? Beyond aesthetics, take the time to consider your family, budget and comfort preferences to choose the right option for you.
And remember, Dodd’s Delivers everywhere on Vancouver Island! Browse online at doddsfurniture.com and be sure to sign up for their newsletter at the bottom of the homepage for care tips and unbelievable deals.