Four Reasons Why Leather Furniture Is Still In Such High Demand

There is still a remarkably healthy demand for sophisticated leather furniture in Britain; the sleek, stylish fabrics and incredible resilience of this material is still much more appealing than much cheaper types of furniture, which needs to be replaced far more frequently.

Leather is created through an historic process known as tanning, which transforms hides into high quality leather, and there are many different styles. For example, pigmented leather is one of the most popular choices for homeowners because it is relatively cheap and features a more uniform appearance, which is well suited to minimalist interiors. Split leather, on the other hand, is manufactured with 100% real leather and is one of the most durable types, while Bonded leather is a more economical variety and normally consists of approximately 17% leather.

1. The most comfortable choice of furniture

You are immersed into luxury thanks to the smooth feel of leather, which is perfect for resting and rejuvenation. Because of its flexibility, it essentially moulds into your body shape and can even become softer over time, which only increases its appeal. It is ideal furniture for parties and busy social events, when your guests will be perfectly relaxed and feel right at home.

2. Matures like a vintage wine

Leather is like a fine wine; the older it gets, the more beautiful it becomes. It appears more radiant over time and does not deteriorate like other fabrics. It is also resistant to flames and is typically several times more durable than other furniture materials, although homeowners should be careful not to position their leather sofas in front of direct sunlight for long periods of time.

3. Very hygienic and hard-wearing

Leather furniture fails to absorb dust and is a suitable choice for people with common allergies, asthma or other conditions that can be exasperated by allergens. Dirt fails to penetrate the material, which helps it stay clean and enables you to enjoy a healthier living environment. Leather is also ideal for families with young children and pets because of its durable characteristics. However, take care not to let your pets put their sharp claws on the furniture, as this could cause irreversible damage.

4. Easy to maintain

To keep your leather sofa in the best condition, all you need to use is a specialist leather cleaner and conditioner from time to time. Covering it with a sheet or furniture cloth will also help it last even longer and will provide better protection from sunlight. While it is always important to prevent stains and spillages, even these can easily be removed on a leather sofa because they do not become absorbed into the fabric.

A final note on sunlight/UV rays

UV rays will eventually alter the colour of leather furniture, which could lead to some undesirable effects. Excessive over-exposure from sunlight will heat your leather and reduce its water concentration, which should be between 12 and 14 percent. Therefore, remember to keep your furniture at room temperature at all times and do not position it outside on a hot sunny day.

Mark Pryor knows a great deal about interior design as he is currently studying for a degree in the subject from the University of East London. When Mark isn’t studying, he works as a customer assistant and writer for Brooks Furnishings – Essex’s leading furniture retailers for over thirty years.