It’s not easy to buy furniture as you have to take into account different factors like your budget, size of your room and furnishings, etc. One of the most common problems people face is whether they should buy Microfiber or a Leather Couch.
Have you ever noticed that microfiber furniture can look just as lovely or better than leather? Things like curtains and drapes, bedding, and even furniture. Well, it’s no secret that microfiber is a rip-off of leather. But is it just as good?
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The difference
Microfiber is made up of small, tightly woven synthetic fibers. In fact, microfibers are 100 times more fine than human hair. This fineness gives the fabric durability and flexibility.
On the other hand, leather is made from animal hides that go through a tanning process before being upholstered into furniture. Leather is purchased by the hide, while microfiber is purchased by the yard.
Advantages
Leather and microfiber couches offer many years of use and beauty. They are both very durable and have inherent stain-resistant properties. They are great for daily use and are perfect for people with kids or pets.
Appearance
Microfiber is totally artificial and can be woven in different colors and patterns. It can be woven to look like cotton, suede, or velvet. On the flip side, leather was once an animal’s skin. As such, it could come in various colors, but the texture remains the same. It might also carry some scars and other marks from the animal. However, both materials upholster tightly into the couch’s frame.
Microfiber Vs Leather Couch: How to choose the right couch fabric
Microfiber, leather, and even faux all have their advantages and disadvantages as couch fabrics. Picking the right one for you depends on several factors. Here are some things you should consider before shopping for a couch.
Budget
Before you start shopping for a couch, you must know how much you want to spend on it. It’s important to not only find a cheap couch but one that gives you value for your money.
Family lifestyle
Another important factor to consider is who will use the couch. If you have young children or pets, you might need something durable and stain-resistant. You might also need to get dull colors. On the other hand, if you live alone or with tidy adults, you can go for more vibrant colors and softer materials.
Furniture location
Where will the couch be located? Some materials are not weatherproof, so it’s important to consider whether you’ll place the couch near a large window or natural light inlet.
Leather couches
A leather couch is guaranteed to be durable and classy. Retailers price leather couches according to leather grades. Leather is not only comfortable but also relatively easy to clean.
Before purchasing a leather couch, you should know that four main types of leather are used on couches.
Full-grain leather: This is the highest quality leather you will find on a couch. It is also the most expensive. The material is moisture and water-resistant, ages gracefully, and any wear or scuffs only add to the couch’s character.
Top-grain leather: Top-grain leather is a bit cheaper than full-grain leather. However, it is still very high quality. In addition, it is quite durable, though not as much as full-grain leather.
Split-grain leather: Split-grain leather is an even cheaper alternative. However, it is not as durable as full-grain or even top-grain leather. In fact, it doesn’t even feel like real leather.
Bonded leather: Bonded leather is the lowest quality leather you can get on a couch. It’s very cheap and aesthetically soft and smooth, making it look higher quality than it is. As expected, it’s not as durable as the rest of the leathers.
Now that you’re familiar with the types of leather used in furniture, here’s a look at some of the types of leather dye used in furniture.
Pigmented leather: It has a polymer surface coating, making it the most durable. It can be finish printed, or plan. The surface coating resists soiling and fading.
Aniline leather: This is the most natural leather as there is no coating or pigment. It absorbs liquid quickly and is sensitive to sunlight. As a result, it requires the most care.
Semi-aniline leather: This dye combines the natural look of aniline leather and a little surface coating to make it more durable.
Pros of buying a leather couch
l Long-lasting.
l Cleans easily.
l Durable.
l Doesn’t absorb smells.
l Great for people who suffer from allergies.
l Maintains the shape.
l Easy to maintain.
Cons of buying a leather couch
l Expensive.
l Lower variety of colors and patterns to choose from.
l Vulnerable to children and pests.
l Absorbs heat quickly.
l Spills might discolor the leather.
Microfiber couches
Microfiber is a popular choice for couch fabrics because it is looks and feels good and comes in almost any color you could wish for. However, the material can be difficult to maintain.
Microfiber is made to feel like suede and can be comprised of natural fibers like cotton, silk, linen, and wool. It is strong, durable, and affordable.
The material holds its color for a long time, making it great for people with kids and pets. It is also rated as hypoallergenic, but it might still trigger a few people’s allergies.
Before buying a microfiber couch, it’s important to note that the material is prone to watermarking and attracts pet hair and dust.
Pros of microfiber couches
l Retains color for long.
l Durable.
l Stain-resistant.
l Comfortable.
l Inexpensive.
Cons of microfiber couches
l Prone to watermarking.
l Attract dust and pet hair.
l Conductors for static.
How to make your couch last longer
Here are a few tips to keep your couch comfortable and looking great for a long time.
l If it has a leather fabric, keep it away from direct sunlight. After long periods of exposure, leather will crack and rip.
l Fill saggy cushions with foam.
l Avoid sitting on armrests.
l Clean spills as quickly as you can to stop them from settling in.
l Rotate your cushions regularly.
In Conclusion
leather and microfiber couches are beautiful and durable. The best choice between them solely depends on your situation. For example, if you or anyone in your family is allergic, leather is the best option. However, if you want a couch with vibrant colors and custom patterns, microfiber is the way to go.
