Sofas are kind of a big deal. Not only are they usually the largest piece of furniture in your living room, but they can determine the style and tone of a room. When it comes to sofas you have two options for material: fabric or leather. Fabric includes polyester, linen, velvet, etc. Leather includes genuine and vegan leather. There are benefits and drawbacks to each. But what really matters is which one best fits you and your lifestyle. Let’s see which material strikes your interest!
Fabric
Fun fact: the earliest surviving sofa was made out of a soft, red fabric! There are many, many types of fabric to choose from when it comes to fabric sofas. Different fabrics can help create whatever vibe you please; whether it be vintage, modern, casual, or classy.
Durability
Fabric sofas can take a beating. On average, most fabric sofas last seven to fifteen years. Depending on the color and fabric, they can hide stains pretty well. They are harder to scratch than leather sofas, so that is a huge advantage. Unfortunately, they are harder to clean than leather sofas.
Price
In general, fabric sofas are less expensive than leather sofas. They are also much cheaper to reupholster and repair than leather. Fabric sofa sleepers are also less expensive than leather sleepers.
Pros
Fabric sofas are softer and generally more comfortable than leather. There are unlimited options for color and fabric type. A fabric sofa will always be cheaper than its leather twin. It’s very difficult to scratch fabric, so if you have pets, fabric is a good choice.
Cons
Fabric sofas trap allergens, hair, and dust. They can be vacuumed, but they are not always great options for those who suffer from extreme allergies. Colored fabric will fade and lose its original coloring over time. Pungent smells like smoke and food can be trapped in the fabric.
Leather
Leather sofas have become increasingly popular due to the rise in modern and contemporary interior design. They tend to look more formal than fabric sofas.
Durability
If they are properly cared for, leather will last decades. If they are not taken care of, they can crack. Leather is easy to scratch, so if you have pets it’s best to not let them on the furniture. The cushions are tighter and won’t indent as quickly as fabric.
Price
Leather is generally more expensive than a standard fabric sofa–but for a good reason. Leather is much more durable and will laster longer than a fabric sofa. If you decide on vegan leather, expect less expensive prices.
Pros
Leather cushions keep their shape longer than other sofas. They are much more durable. They are much easier to clean and won’t trap allergens. If you have kids, a leather sofa may be perfect for you, as leather sofas repel spills better than fabric sofas. Leather sofas tend to look more elegant and professional than fabric sofas.
Cons
They require more care and upkeep than a fabric sofa. Instead of just a quick vacuum, you must dust them frequently and polish them every few months to keep them soft and sleek. They are more expensive.
