Types of Leather Sofas - 2025
Leather Sofa Types
Sofa style, length, width and height vary, so you have plenty of choices. You can even purchase a leather loveseat if you need something smaller or a leather reclining sofa if you want to push back and relax.
Because leather upholstery can last for years, look for high-quality sofa frames, suspension and cushions to enhance the longevity of your leather sofa.
About Leather
The most important consideration when purchasing a leather sofa is the type of leather. While all real leather is made from animal skins, mainly cattle hides, the part of the hide and how it's processed affect the look, feel and durability. These are some key things to know about leather:
Semi-aniline is either top-grain or corrected-grain leather with a light surface coating that contains a small amount of pigment. It's available in more colors than aniline but doesn't acquire the same patina with age. The surface coating provides some stain-resistance.
Pigmented leather is corrected grain with a polymer surface coating containing pigments, so it offers the widest color choice. It's also the most durable, stain-resistant and easier to clean.
Top-grain leathers are used for the parts of the furniture that your body comes in contact with (the back, arms, cushions). The remainder of the upholstery is usually top grain or matched splits.
What Is Faux Leather?
What Is Leather Seating?
What Is 100% Leather?
What Is Top Grain Leather?
- Full grain leather, known for its high-quality leather finish, comes from the outermost layer of the hide and retains natural blemishes, making each piece unique.
- Bonded leather is made from leather scraps bonded together, resulting in a less durable option.
- Sanded and buffed leathers, often used to remove imperfections, offer a smoother surface but may lack the robustness of top-layer leather.
- Semi-aniline leather provides a balance between durability and comfort, featuring a light protective coating.
- Split grain leather, derived from the inner layers of the hide, is often more affordable but not as long-lasting.
- Bi-cast layers of leather, coated with polyurethane, offer a shiny and durable finish but may not possess the same luxurious feel.
How to Buy the Right Leather Sofa
While leather sofas tend to be high-end, you will still encounter varying levels of quality. Determining what you want to use the sofa for helps you select the right one for your situation.
For comfort, focus on the quality of the suspension, cushions and reclining mechanism.
For looks, pay attention to color and style.
For a busy household, make sure the leather is treated to resist stains and improve cleanability.
How to Style Your Place With a Leather Sofa
Leather sofas come in many styles, from traditional to transitional to contemporary/modern, making it easy to match your taste. A real leather sofa with its natural grain and texture blends effortlessly with its surroundings. It becomes both a focal point and a structural piece around which you can build the rest of your room.
A leather sofa can look timeless regardless of its style. It adds elegance to a room, and even modern and contemporary styles don't become passé, something that often happens with fabric sofas.
Leather Upholstery Buying Guide
You’ve heard the term ‘leather upholstery,’ but did you know that it can actually be divided into several different categories? Learn the differences between faux leather, top grain leather, leather seating and 100% leather and exactly what each type means.
Types of Leather
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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.
