Which Is The Right Leather For You?

Leather is a great choice for furniture in any home. But which is the right leather for you?

Leather is a material that never goes out of style and can suit any setting. It’s also a popular choice for families as it’s durable and hardwearing. There are many different types and variations of leather each with their own characterises.

Aesthetics is important but the type you should select should also depend on how you will use the furniture.

Quality is key! Especially when you have to consider your type of lifestyle.  So, make sure you  know what type of leather you’re investing in before you go through with a purchase.

Always ask where the leather is from.  Some retailers may offer cheaper manufactured versions of leather.

What is Bonded Leather?

Bonded Leather is a term given to a manufactured upholstery material which contains animal hide.  It’s composed of a paper backing with layered fibres of leather mixed with a polyurethane binder. This is then embossed to give a leather-like texture.

Try to avoid “Bonded leather”.  You may be offered a great deal on this but bonded leather is barely leather at all (only 17% of leather).  So basically you will be sitting on plastic.

It won’t age well and won’t adapt to your body temperature.

What is Full Grain?

Full grain leather is the strongest & most durable leather

Full-grain leather is used on the high quality furniture. It undergoes no processing or sanding to remove discoloration and as a result, it’s the strongest and most durable leather.

Full-grain leather makes for tough, long-lasting furniture perfect for high traffic areas.

If you have a busy lifestyle with children and pets I strongly recommend investing in full-grain leather.

What is Top Grain?

The next best and second strongest leather is called “top-grain” leather.

Top grain leather is similar to full-grain leather.  But the top couple millimetres have been sanded and buffed to take away imperfections to make for a more uniform finish.

It breathes very well and has great temperature control. However, it’s not as durable as it can break down much faster than top grain leather.

What is Split Grain?

Split-grain leather is very similar to full-grain leather.  It often has the same pattern discolouration but is not as durable.

It comes from the lower half of hides, making it softer but less tough than full-grain leather.

Be weary! Most furniture items labelled “genuine leather” can often be covered in split-grain leather.

What is Aniline?

Aniline leather is a type of leather that has been treated with dye.

The dye hides any imperfections in the leather and usually makes the leather softer.   A popular choice for people who want the quality of full grain leather but prefer a more even colour.

Only downfall is it’s less resistant to soiling and has the potential to fade if exposed to direct sunlight

What is pigmented?

Pigmented leather is lower grade leather.  It’s dyed to hide all colour imperfections making it less natural looking.  However, is it has a polymer coating so has a very strong resistance to fading and stains. The coating gives the leather a shiny feel which is quite tough at first but softens over time.

With strong durability it’s another great choice for families.

Know what you’re getting

When choosing the right leather for you and your family remember to ask a few questions to make sure you’re getting what you want.  Asking about the construction, fabric, leather, and warranty will get you the information you need.

Now you’re able to select the right leather for your home, maybe you need some advice on how to choose window treatments? Please click here for some tips  http://www.inspiredspaces.com.au/window-treatments/