When you walk into a furniture store and inquire about sofas, the first question you’ll be asked is whether you’re looking for a fabric or leather sofa. While some individuals may have a clear preference for one type over another due to the overall look or style, others may be on the fence about which type of sofa is best for their home. If you’re struggling with the fabric or leather decision, take these points into consideration before you make a purchase.
Review Your Budget
First, a major difference between these two types of sofas is the cost. While you can find lower-quality leather sofas or even imitation leather sofas that are rather affordable, a high-quality leather sofa will have a much higher price tag than its fabric counterpart. If you are shopping on a tight budget, fabric may be a better option for you. If your budget is more flexible, you may consider a few other factors to help you make a decision.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping Your Sofa in Top Shape
Some people are drawn to leather because of the perception that it requires little maintenance and upkeep. It is true that it is easier to wipe crumbs off of, to clean dirty pet paw prints or even to wipe away liquid spills. Fabric will generally show signs of wear and tear much sooner than leather. You should know, though, that leather does need to be maintained with a periodic application of leather conditioner if you want it to last for a long period of time. This may be minimal work, however, compared to the scrubbing and vacuuming that you may need to do to keep a fabric sofa looking great.
Sofas Aren’t Just for Looking At: Think About Comfort
Both leather and fabric sofas can be very comfortable or rather uncomfortable depending on your preference as well as the style of the sofa. Some people prefer the cool feel of leather while they relax, and others may prefer the softer fabric material while they are sitting or lying on the couch. Ultimately, you should sit in several styles of both types of sofas to find one that has the ideal level of firmness for you.
Consider Your Expectations for Longevity
All types of furnishings must be well-maintained in order to remain in great condition in the home and to look fabulous for years to come. Both styles of sofas can become damaged or may show signs of wear and tear when you are not careful with them. For maximum longevity, a high-quality leather sofa may be ideal for some homes. In some cases, a good leather sofa may last you several decades. However, even a high-quality leather sofa can be scratched or torn by pets or kids when it is used inappropriately.
The leather or fabric decision isn’t an easy one to make, and ultimately, it will come down to what works best for you. Ultimately, you want to find a sofa that will look great in the space for years to come and that will be comfortable for you and your family. By considering factors like cost, longevity, maintenance, and comfort, you can find the perfect sofa for your living room.