Choosing the right upholstery fabric can make a big difference in how your furniture looks and feels. Two popular choices are leather and synthetic materials, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between these materials to help you decide which one is right for you.

Leather vs. Synthetic

When it comes to upholstery, the fabric you choose can impact the comfort, durability, and overall look of your furniture. Let’s take a closer look at what makes leather and synthetic materials unique.

Leather Upholstery

Leather, made from animal hides, is known for its luxurious feel and durability. With proper care, it can last 15-20 years, getting softer over time. Spills are easy to clean, but leather is prone to scratches and needs conditioning every 6-12 months to prevent cracking. It also reacts to room temperature, feeling cold in winter and sticky in summer.

Best Uses for Leather:

• Living Room Sofas: Adds elegance to formal settings.
• Office Furniture: Durable and professional for executive chairs.
• Luxury Vehicles: Offers a premium feel for car interiors.

Cost: Leather is more expensive upfront, but its longevity makes it a good long-term investment.

Synthetic Upholstery Materials

Synthetics like polyester, PU, and PVC have improved greatly, often mimicking leather’s look and feel. Synthetics resist fading, are easier to maintain, and work well in high-traffic areas. Microfiber can last 10-15 years, while cheaper synthetics might crack or peel over time. They also tend to be more breathable, making them a good option for warmer climates.

Best Uses for Synthetics:

• Family Rooms: Microfiber resists stains, ideal for homes with kids or pets.
• Outdoor Furniture: Fabrics like Sunbrella® can handle the elements.
• Pet-Friendly Spaces: Scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

Cost: Synthetics are generally more affordable than leather, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Comparing Leather and Synthetics Across Different Settings

Stain Resistance and High Traffic Environments

If you have kids or pets, or your furniture is in a high-traffic area, stain resistance is key. Let’s see how leather and synthetics compare.

Leather: Spills on leather can usually be wiped up easily, but stains from oils or inks can be tricky if not cleaned quickly. Leather can work well in high-traffic areas if cared for, but scratches and wear can happen.

Synthetic Materials: Synthetics are generally better for high-traffic spaces, especially microfiber, which resists spills and stains. Plus, it’s more scratch-resistant, making it a good choice for homes with pets.

Climate Considerations

Leather and synthetic materials respond differently to climate, which can impact comfort and longevity.

Leather: Leather is sensitive to temperature changes. It can feel cold in winter and sticky in summer. In dry climates or higher altitudes, leather may need more conditioning to prevent cracking.

Synthetic Materials: Synthetics are more temperature-neutral and can be comfortable year-round, no matter where you live. They aren’t as affected by altitude or humidity, making them versatile.

Things People Often Overlook

• Maintenance Needs: Leather needs regular conditioning to prevent it from cracking, but many people forget this.
• Synthetics’ Longevity: While synthetics are cheaper, lower-quality options may not last long. It’s worth investing in higher-quality synthetics if you want them to last.
• Breathability: Leather isn’t as breathable as synthetics, which can be uncomfortable in warmer climates during long periods of sitting.
• Aging Aesthetics: Leather develops a patina over time, which some people love, but others might not. Synthetics tend to keep their original look longer, but they lack the character that comes with leather’s aging.

Choosing the Perfect Upholstery

Both leather and synthetic materials have their strengths. Leather offers timeless luxury, while synthetics provide practicality and affordability. Consider your budget, maintenance needs, and how you’ll use the furniture to make the right choice.

Thanks for trusting Bailey’s Fabric & Supply for your upholstery needs. We look forward to helping with your next project!