How to Identify Genuine Leather Sofas<br /><br />Genuine leather furniture can last for decades and add timeless style to a room. It can be difficult to distinguish between genuine leather and "split", "bonded" or faux (fake leather) options.<br /><br />If the edges are rough or uneven it is likely the leather product is genuine. A bumpy underside and "fat wrinkles" are also indicators of genuine leather.<br /><br /><br /><br />Top-grain<br /><br />A leather sofa can last many years. If <a href="https://www.sofasandcouches.com/categories/leather-sofas">leather couch</a> take care of it, a high-quality leather sofa will last for three times as long as textile sofas. If you don't, it will last only a few years before it starts to peel and crack. One way to safeguard your leather furniture is by using a leather preservative that will keep it soft and flexible.<br /><br />You should also consider furniture made from full-grain leather which is the best quality leather available. This kind of leather is not cleaned or buffed, and so it will retain its original appearance. This allows you to match the leather's texture and color to your existing decor.<br /><br />Full-grain leather is more expensive than top-grain leather, but it has a number of advantages over other kinds. It is more durable and can be dyed to a variety of colors. It's also breathable, so it keeps you cool in the summer and warm in winter. Full-grain is an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, as it does not trap pet dander and dust mites like upholstery fabrics.<br /><br />The top-grain kind of leather is commonly used in leather sofas. It has been polished, buffed, and sanded to remove any imperfections. This also reduces the durability of the leather but it does provide the same appearance and feel. This type of leather is often used in high-end leather products because it is softer and more affordable than full grain.<br /><br />Despite its popularity, it is important to understand the difference between full-grain and top-grain leather before you purchase a leather sofa. While both kinds of leather are durable however, full-grain leather is a more resilient material than top-grain, which is less durable and may be damaged if it is not properly maintained.<br /><br />Full-grain<br /><br />A leather sofa adds a touch of class to any space. You can make it look more elegant with accent pillows and woven throws for the color, or keep it simple for an understated look. The kind of leather used in the construction of a sofa will determine the design and the durability. A leather of high quality will not only last for a long time, but also more attractive with time. The best kind of leather is full-grain that retains the natural texture, markings, and imperfections of the original hide and is breathable. It also develops a rich patina over time, which is coveted by many leather lovers.<br /><br />The difference between full-grain and top grain leather is that the latter is buffed and sanded to eliminate imperfections. The process of sanding and polishing also weakens the leather, causing it to break, scratch, and puddle easily. The tanning process can be harmful to the environment, however chrome-free tanning options are available to those who want to reduce their impact on the earth.<br /><br />Full-grain is more expensive but is also more durable and resistant to wear. It is also easier to maintain, since it requires little more than regular cleaning using an easy-to-clean cloth. It is an excellent option for those who don't want to maintain leather sofas but don't want to spend additional money on high-end leather furniture.<br /><br />If you're looking for a sofa made of full-grain leather take note that it may not be as easily accessible as a top-grain one. You might want to visit an exhibit where you can examine the sofa up close and feel it to check its feel and durability. Additionally, you can ask about the process of tanning and how it affects the leather.<br /><br />The appropriate color for your leather sofa is another important factor to take into consideration. Shades like dark navy or tan butterscotch might seem dated but they are a good fit with many decor styles. The shape and height are important aspects to consider. Sofas with tapered or thin legs will look more contemporary or curved, while those with rounded or spindle legs would suit an older style of interior.<br /><br />Semi-aniline<br /><br />Many people have questions whenever they visit our showroom. They may be looking for information on the types of leathers we carry or require help in understanding terminology of the industry. This is especially relevant for shoppers interested in buying a leather sofa. Leather is a popular upholstery material for commercial and residential properties however, many people aren't familiar with the different finishes used to make these products.<br /><br />We are often asked what's the difference between aniline leather and semi-aniline leather? Both are top grain leather, but they have some important differences. Aniline leather has a natural look and soft feel, but it is also more fragile. This type of leather can fade with exposure to sunlight and it is easily stained by spilled liquids. If it is not cared for in a timely manner, it will dry out and crack with time. Because of its brittle nature, aniline leather requires a high level of maintenance.<br /><br />Semi-aniline leather on the other hand is treated with a fine surface coating for more durability. This treatment process will make the leather more resistant to staining and fade. This finish also helps keep the leather in its natural appearance and softness.<br /><br />Semi-aniline leather, even though it may not have the natural appearance and feel of full aniline, is nonetheless stunning. This type of leather is favored by many families due to its both beauty and security.<br /><br />Pigmented leather is the strongest kind of leather. It is more resistant to scratches and stains than other types. This makes it an excellent option for families with pets or children. It also requires less care than other kinds of leather.<br /><br />Like other kinds of leather, the pigmented leather is prone to drying out and crack over time if it does not receive proper maintenance. It is recommended to condition your leather at least two times each year to ensure it is hydrated and prevent it from drying out or cracking. When shopping for a used leather sofa, make sure you check the quality before purchasing it. This way you can be sure that you're receiving a high-quality product at a reasonable price.<br /><br />Bonded<br /><br />Leather lovers avoid fake leather or bonded leather furniture. The reason is simple: it is a combination of shredded scraps and fibers that are glued together and covered with polyurethane and embossed to appear like leather. It's not the most robust and may crack, peel, or scuff easily. It is not as soft and supple as genuine leather, neither. A sofa upholstered with leather bonded might look nice in a showroom, but will not last.<br /><br />When shopping for used leather sofas, look for genuine top-grain leather. This kind of leather will be more supple and more flexible than fake leather, and it will also look better. It is possible to see the differences in the grain characteristics of real and fake leather. Look for the natural markings of hide scarring, creases, creases and fat wrinkles (caused by the animal's natural fat deposits). Genuine leather is distinguished by these marks.<br /><br />Another way to determine if you have a genuine leather sofa is to feel it. Genuine leather is warmer during the winter months and cool during the summer. Bonded leather is more rigid and does not adjust to your body temperature. Genuine leather will wear gracefully over time and develop a rich patina.<br /><br />It is possible to buy a used genuine leather sofa for a good price however it will require more maintenance than a bonded leather or faux leather item. A good cleaning regimen will keep it looking nice and soft for many years. Clean the furniture with a clean rag to remove any dirt. Then, make a mild soap solution by adding the liquid detergent to water. Dip a clean cloth into the soap solution and rub the surface of the leather, being careful not to use too much pressure.<br /><br />After cleaning the couch, wipe it clean with a the clean, non-detergent fabric. You should also apply a leather conditioner at least every year or once. This will maintain the quality of the leather and stop it from becoming dry and cracking over time. Also, protect your furniture made of leather from direct sunlight, as it will degrade quickly.<br /><br />