How to Spot a Genuine Leather Sofa

This sofa makes a fantastic addition to any space. The leather upholstery is incredibly soft. People love its simple design and its high-end genuine leather upholstery.

But recognizing real leather from fake leather can be a challenge for the untrained eye. Here are six useful ways to tell the difference: 1. Edges that are rough.

1. Labels are important

Genuine leather is difficult to duplicate. It has a distinctive appearance and feel. It is also durable, easy-to-clean, and doesn't absorb excessive body oils. This makes it ideal for people suffering from allergies. Not all leather sofas, however, are made equally. Some retailers are even famous for using PVC as genuine leather.

Understanding the different types of leather will help you avoid being scammed. This includes determining the differences between full grain and top grain leather, and also evaluating the quality of the upholstery material. The most knowledgeable retailers will be more than willing to share this information So don't hesitate inquire!

The first step to identifying the genuine leather sofa is to check the label. The label should clearly indicate the kind of leather used to cover the sofa and any other materials like fabric or cotton. In addition, reputable suppliers will have clear policies regarding exchange or return in the event that you're dissatisfied with your purchase.

If the sofa doesn't come with an identifier however, you can still figure out the authenticity of the sofa by examining the fabric backing or opening the cushion casing to check for synthetic materials. You can also check the texture of the leather and determine whether it's got any imperfections or bumps, because these are indicators that you're dealing with fake or the leather is bonded.

Another way to check the integrity of a sofa is touching its surface by rubbing your fingers. Genuine leather will have an incredibly soft and smooth texture, whereas faux or bonded leather will be rougher and feel more like suede. You should also be able to discern the difference between wrinkles, bumps and printed patterns of faux leather and genuine leather.

While a genuine leather sofa will cost more than a faux counterpart, it's an investment that will last longer and can often become family heirlooms over the years. You can limit the damage caused by the sun or ozone, heat, humidity by placing your leather sofa in an airy, dark space away from fireplaces, heaters and air conditioners. Creams for protection on leather can be used to keep your leather sofa strong and supple.

2. Look at the back

If the label doesn't tell you what kind of leather sofa is, it's essential to get up close and intimate with it. The scent, the feel, and back will all be clear indicators of authenticity.

If you touch the surface of genuine leather, it won't feel smooth and perfect. This is due to the fact that animal hides have different shaped pores that allow them to breathe. A leather product that is completely smooth may be fake vintage leather sofa.

Check for bumps or uneven surfaces. The preparation of genuine leather requires buffing, which takes away some of the rough outer skin. However, if the material you use to cover your sofa is made of top-quality leather, it's likely to have some bumps.

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 like human skin. This allows the leather to breathe and prevents it from becoming dry or cracking as time passes.

Faux leather has a consistent pattern because it's printed, while genuine leather will have imperfections that enhance the beauty and durability of the leather. This includes creases and scratches. A quality leather sofa will be soft, a little stiff when new, but it should not crack or dry out over time if it is regularly maintained with a specific leather protection cream.

Some furniture manufacturers combine real leather with synthetic leather in order to save money. The 'contact' areas such as seats, armrests, and backs, are made of real leather sofa set, while the non-contact portions, such as base and outside arms, are upholstered with a less-expensive synthetic fabric made of polyurethane or leather. Even if a couch is labeled as genuine leather, it is best to examine the back to determine if the couch is genuine leather couches leather.

Labels and prices can point you in the right direction, but to truly ensure that a sofa is genuine leather, you need to get up close and personal with it. Look at the back of the sofa for any signs of polyurethane which is a sign that it's not genuine leather.

3 seater leather couch (visit www.mecosys.com now >>>). Check out the seat

The seat of a genuine leather sofa is another indication of its quality. While most faux leather couches make use of different materials for the upholstery authentic leather has a unique texture that is soft to the touch, but isn't completely uniform in color and shade. Be aware of bumps on the surface and a rich, natural smell. These are the characteristics that distinguish genuine leather sofa with chaise from cheap or fake fakes.

If the leather is stitched in a continuous, huge piece, that's another dead giveaway. This is common with faux leather but if it's on genuine top-grain leather and you are looking for a sofa, avoid the sofa.

Pricing and labels may give you an idea however the only way to know for sure is to get up close to the furniture. Genuine leather shouldn't be flawless and have a rough feel. It also has rough edges and fat wrinkles underneath the surface. Genuine leather feels supple and distinct from synthetic materials. The temperature of the furniture can also indicate whether it is made from authentic materials.

A leather sofa is a staple of interior design for a reason: It's stylish, durable and long-lasting. It's also easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. This makes it a perfect choice for families who have children or pets. The best part about genuine leather, is that it's a classic style that won't go out of style, and it's still accessible at a variety of prices.

Think about Pottery Barn's Turner for a leather couch that will last for years. Although this two-seater is on the pricier side however, it's constructed with high-end top-quality leather and features a classic silhouette that won't fade away. This is a great option for those with limited space, as it comes with three sizes and fits in most rooms.

If you're looking for something a bit more modern, you should consider this All Modern Geo Genuine Leather Sofa. This mid-century modern-inspired sofa features a sleek, angular design with a round pillow and an elegant frame. While the frame is crafted from composite, plywood and plastic, this sofa is made of genuine leather in the seating area, which is a nice step up from Ikea's faux-leather sofa that won CHOICE's "Shonky" award in 2015.

4. Take a look at the smell

Genuine leather has a distinctive scent - a natural, organic skin scent that is unable to be replicated. If the sofa you are trying to purchase has a strong synthetic smell, this is an indication that it isn't genuine. This is usually caused by the chemicals used to process leather. These chemicals can remain on furniture long after it's been manufactured.

A good way to test the quality of leather sofas is to gently rub your fingers along the surface. Genuine leather will have lumps and bumps just like the human skin. If it is smooth and cold, it is most likely fake or the leather is bonded.

You can also open one of the cushions to examine the back. Faux and bonded hides will have a polyurethane back to provide support for the manufactured upholstery. True leather has an untreated back and is similar to coarse suede. If you notice a woven backing, this is an obvious sign that the couch isn't real leather.

Peter advises that if you are trying to decide whether the sofa is genuine the best way to determine authenticity is to put it against your body and then gently run your fingers along the surface. The scratches on the leather will dull your fingernails, and the surface should stretch and wrinkle a little. It will also feel warm to the feel.

The sofa's back and checking the upholstery will 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 that covers the entire back of the couch.

Consider how often you'll use your leather sofa and how long it is expected to last when choosing the quality. The more you utilize your couch the more attention it will require. Peter suggests regular and gentle cleaning with a special leather conditioner to maintain the suppleness and softness of the leather and prevent it from becoming dry and hard.