{"id":4224,"date":"2023-04-24T21:31:45","date_gmt":"2023-04-24T21:31:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hickoryfurniture.com\/blog\/?p=4224"},"modified":"2024-11-14T21:26:16","modified_gmt":"2024-11-14T21:26:16","slug":"your-complete-guide-to-leather-furniture","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hickoryfurniture.com\/blog\/your-complete-guide-to-leather-furniture\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Complete Guide to Leather Furniture"},"content":{"rendered":"
Last Updated Thursday, November 14, 2024<\/div> \n

Leather furniture<\/a> has been a popular choice for centuries, and with good reason. Not only does it add warmth and texture to any room, but it also stands the test of time if taken care of properly. If you are ready to invest in high-end leather furniture, here is everything you need to know about it \u2013 from the different types of leather to how to shop for it and how to ensure your new investment lasts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your Guide to Leather Furniture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Leather furniture is a luxurious and timeless addition to any home. There are several types of leather, each with its own unique characteristics, so the first step is to decide what type you like. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you have selected the type of leather you like, it is time to think about care and maintenance. Leather furniture requires special cleaners and conditioners to keep it looking its best and to ensure it does not dry out and\/or crack over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, when shopping for leather furniture, always look for pieces that come with a warranty. This will protect your investment in case you have problems down the road. A little bit of research ahead of time will save you a lot of trouble down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Different Types of Leather<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Not all leather is created equal. Each type of leather has its own distinct look and feel, and you\u2019ll want to ensure you choose the best option for your lifestyle and home. The main types of leather used in furniture are aniline, semi-aniline, pigmented, and nubuck. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aniline Leather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Aniline leather is the most expensive type of leather, but is also the most natural. Made by  soaking cowhide in a clear, aniline dye that penetrates deep into the hide, aniline leather has a rich, deep color. It has a soft, buttery texture to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, despite its amazing quality, the deep color of aniline leather will show all natural markings or imperfections and is very susceptible to staining. The most difficult leather to care for, aniline leather is best suited for low-traffic areas of your home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Semi-Aniline Leather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This leather is also dyed all the way through, like aniline leather, but it differs by offering a protective topcoat to make the material more durable. This topcoat is made with a thin layer of pigment applied to the surface, intended to guard the fabric against staining. Because of this, it does have a slightly less natural appearance and feel than an aniline leather piece. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Semi-aniline leather pieces are great for busy families wanting the look of aniline leather without the fear of stains occurring from day-to-day life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pigmented Leather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another great type of leather is pigmented leather \u2013 this is the most durable type of leather furniture, making it great for households with active children and pets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pigmented leather has a solid color throughout, thanks to its thick topcoat of pigment. This topcoat withstands heavy use and is incredibly easy to clean, but does have the least natural look to it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nubuck Leather<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This leather is made by sanding down the top layer of an aniline or semi-aniline hide to create a velvety nap or texture. This rich, velvety texture closely resembles suede and gives a very luxe feel to your furniture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Very sensitive to staining, nubuck leather is best used for low-traffic areas and should be protected with a quality sealer before use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vegan Leather <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

An option for those not wanting to use animal products, vegan leather is an alternative made of a variety of recycled plastic and plant materials. This can also be a lower cost option for those looking for the feel of leather at a fraction of the price. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vegan leather is also a little easier to keep in good shape \u2013 it\u2019s waterproof, easily wiped down, and does not require regular treatments to avoid cracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing the Right Leather for Your Home<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to leather furniture, there are a few things you will want to take into consideration in order to choose the right piece for your home. Here is a quick checklist to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n