Why No One Cares About Genuine Leather Sofa

How to Spot a Genuine Leather Sofa

With its soft leather upholstery this sofa looks fantastic in any room. Customers love its simple style and the premium quality genuine leather upholstery.

Untrained eyes may have difficulty identifying the difference between real and fake leather. Here are six ways to help you differentiate between the two types: 1. Edges that are rough.

1. Look at the label

Real leather has a unique look and feel that's hard to duplicate. It's also durable and easy to clean. It also does not absorb body oils, making it a perfect choice for those with allergies. However there are many different leather sofas that are created to be the same. In fact, some retailers have even been known to disguise PVC as genuine leather.

Understanding the different types of leather can help you avoid being ripped off. This includes determining top-grain and full grain leather, as well evaluating the quality material of the upholstery. Do not be afraid to ask your favorite retailers for this information.

The first step to identifying a genuine leather sofa is to examine the label. It should clearly state what type of leather the sofa is upholstered with, along with any other material such as cotton or fabric. The most reliable suppliers will also have clear policies regarding exchange or return in the event that you are not happy with your purchase.

If the sofa does not have a label you can still verify its authenticity by examining the fabric backing of the sofa or by opening the cushion casing. You can also check the texture of the leather to determine whether there are any imperfections or bumps. These are signs that the leather is fake or is bonded.

Another method to determine the integrity of a sofa is by touching its surface by rubbing your fingers. Genuine leather has a soft and smooth texture, whereas faux leather or bonded leather will be more coarse and more akin to suede. You should also be able feel the difference between wrinkles, bumps, and printed patterns of faux leather and genuine leather.

While the genuine leather sofa will cost more than its imitation counterpart, it's an investment that will last longer and will be a family heirloom over the years. You can reduce the damage that's caused by the sun as well as ozone, heat and humidity by putting your leather sofa in a cool, dark area away from fireplaces, heaters and air conditioners. Additionally, you can use leather protection creams to keep your sofa in good shape and sturdy.

2. Take a look at the back

If the label doesn't tell you what kind of leather sofa is, you need to get up close and personal with it. The smell, the feel and the back are all clear indicators.

When you get a feel of genuine leather, it will not feel perfectly smooth. This is due to the fact that animal hides have different shaped pores which allow them to breathe. However, a product that is smooth and soft could be fake leather.

Another thing to look out for is bumps or an uneven surface. The preparation of genuine leather includes buffing, which removes some of the rough outer skin. But if the material used to cover your sofa is made of top-quality leather, it will still be bumpy.

You can also test the leather by running your finger over it and pressing down into it. If the leather is real, it will stretch and wrinkle just like human skin. This allows the leather to breathe and prevents it from becoming dry or cracking over time.

Faux leather is printed, and thus has a uniform pattern while genuine leather will have natural imperfections that enhance its beauty and durability. This includes scratches, creases and scars. Genuine leather is soft and a bit stiff when it's brand new. However, it won't crack or dry out when you regularly condition it using a cream for protection against leather.

Some furniture manufacturers combine real leather with synthetic leather in order to save money. The contact areas, such as the arm rests, chairs and backs are constructed of genuine leather, while non-contact areas, like the base and outside arms are upholstered in polyurethane, which is less expensive or synthetic leather. This is a standard practice and even if a couch is branded with an authentic leather label You should examine it closely to see what the backing is made from, as this will be a quick indicator that it's not genuine leather.

Labels and pricing can help you identify a genuine leather sofa However, it is essential to examine it in person. Look at the back of the sofa for polyurethane which is a sign that it's not genuine leather.

3. Take a look at the seat

The seat of a genuine leather sofa is another sign of its high-quality. Genuine leather is distinct from faux leather, which uses a combination of materials. It has a unique texture and feels soft when you touch it. Look for bumps under the surface as well as a deep, natural smell. These features distinguish genuine leather from low-grade or artificial fakes.

If the leather is stitched in a continuous, large piece, that's another obvious sign. This is typical with faux leather, but if it's on real top-grain it is best to stay clear of the sofa.

Pricing and labels may give you a hint however the only way to determine is to get up close to the furniture. The genuine leather isn't perfect and should be a bit uneven to the feel. It also has rough edges and fat wrinkles beneath the surface. Genuine leather feels supple and distinct from synthetic materials. The temperature of the furniture can be an indication of whether it's made of genuine materials.

A leather sofa is a mainstay in interior design because it's stylish, durable and lasts for a long time. It is also easy to clean and resistant to spills of liquid. This makes it a great option for families with children or pets. The best part about genuine leather, however, is that it's a classic design that won't be trendy, and it's still available in a variety of prices.

For a classic leather couch that can stand the test of time, think about the Pottery Barn Turner. The two-seater is expensive, but it is made with top-grain leather that will last for a lifetime. It's a great option for those with small spaces, too, since it comes in three sizes and is small enough to fit into most rooms.

If you're looking for something a bit more modern, you should consider this All Modern Geo Genuine Leather Sofa. This couch is a mid century modern leather Sofa-mid century leather sofa modern leather sofa set design with a sleek, angular frame and asymmetrical cushions that blend functionality and form. While the frame is constructed from composite, plywood and plastic, this sofa features genuine leather only in the seating area, which is a nice step up from Ikea's faux-leather couch that earned the CHOICE's "Shonky" award in the year 2015.

4. Take a look at the smell

Genuine leather has a distinct smell that is a natural organic skin scent that cannot be duplicated. If the sofa you are looking to purchase has a strong synthetic scent it's a sign that it's not genuine. This is usually caused by the chemicals used to treat leather. These chemicals can linger on the furniture even after it's been constructed.

You can determine the quality of leather by gently running your fingers over the surface. Genuine leather will have lumps and bumps just like the human skin. If it feels smooth and cold, it is most likely fake or made of bonded leather.

Alternately, you can open up one of the cushions and look at the back. False and bonded leather will have some form of polyurethane backing that supports the fabric, whereas true leather has an untreated backing that is similar in appearance to coarse suede. If the sofa has a woven backing, it is not genuine leather.

Peter says that the best way to tell whether a sofa is genuine is to lightly run your fingernails across the surface. The roughness of the leather will make your fingernails duller and the surface will stretch and wrinkle a little. It also feels warm to the feel.

Reversing the sofa to its back and checking the upholstery will also let you know if the sofa is genuine. The faux leather and bonded leather will have a plastic covering on the back of the sofa while genuine leather will be a single piece of leather couch and loveseat that covers the entire back of the sofa.

When deciding on the quality of your leather sofa, think about how much use it is likely to receive and how long you'd like it to last. The more you use a sofa in a given time, the more it'll need to be taken care of. Peter suggests regular, gentle cleaning with a leather conditioner. This will help to keep the leather's suppleness intact and stop it from drying out and becoming hard.