Why Purchase a Leather Recliner vs. Fabric Upholstery?

Comfortable and stylish, a recliner is an excellent choice for your family room or living room. Choosing the material for your recliner is more complicated, though. 

Should you choose leather or fabric upholstery? Both types of recliners have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to do your research before buying.

Read on as the team at Wellington’s Fine Leather Furniture explains both types of recliners to help you decide which one is better for you.

Leather Recliners

Leather lends richness to any room. The colors go from neutral to dark, with shades of brown being the most popular. Leather furniture is long-lasting and, perhaps because of its durability and longevity, gives your space an updated look that will brighten your home for decades.

There are three significant types of leather recliner chairs:

• Traditional is the most popular, with simple, classic design, and comfortable features
• Modern blends sleekness and technology with style
• Transitional brings together the best of traditional and modern recliners

Leather is a natural material that breathes and adapts. It is stain-resistant and durable and if well cared for can last for a lifetime.

Genuine leather is worth the price, which is often steep if you want high quality. You may find a less expensive leather recliner out there, but be sure it is genuine leather before you purchase it. To check for authentic leather, make sure the underside is suede.
 

Advantages

Leather recliners are durable and easy to care for. Regular light dusting keeps your leather looking fresh, and a conditioner applied a few times a year is also recommended. For more thorough cleaning, special leather cleaners can remove dirt and oils without damaging the leather.  Be sure to only use care products endorsed by the leather tanneries.

Leather is very comfortable. Though it is often cool upon first sitting, it absorbs the warmth from your body. Leather recliners are also generous in design and provide maximum comfort in all positions.

If you or your family are prone to allergies, a leather recliner is an ideal choice because it is hypoallergenic. You can remove any dust, allergens, or dander with a dust cloth.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of leather recliners is their price. The initial price of a leather recliner may be high, and the additional care and maintenance will add to this cost in the long term, but it is undoubtedly worth the price! 

Upholstered Recliners

Upholstered recliners are available in various fabrics and designs. Natural fabric upholstery is usually softer with a tailored look. The flat weave of cotton, linen, rayon, and silk materials is ideal for patterns. Such natural fibers are vulnerable to sunlight and may fade if in the sunlight for extended periods.

Synthetic fabrics offer durability and are fade-resistant. Most upholstered recliners you will find are made with synthetic materials, including acrylic, nylon, olefin, polyester, and polypropylene.

Advantages

Fabrics tend to be available in more designs, though the comfort primarily depends on the support system of the recliner and the type of fabric.

If you’re looking to save money when purchasing a recliner, an upholstered recliner will be much kinder to your budget. Even with high-quality framing and high-end fabric, an upholstered recliner may be a less expensive option.

Disadvantages

Fabric recliners tend to harbor dust, pet dander, and other allergens, making them a riskier choice for you if you have allergies. Though some cleaners and sprays can help keep down the allergens, they can’t eliminate them completely.

Conclusion

Choosing a recliner comes down to your taste and preferences. A leather recliner may be the best investment for a luxurious and durable addition to your room. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you may choose a fabric recliner.  Just keep in mind a fabric recliner will not last nearly as long as a good leather recliner.

Take your time and consider all the pros and cons of these types of recliners before deciding which one is best for you. Focus on what is important to you and your family, and don’t be afraid to seek advice and guidance from experienced professionals.

At Wellington’s Fine Leather Furniture, we sell high-quality and affordable leather furniture across the country. Connect with one of our personal shoppers to create your perfect leather recliner, sofa, or sectional. Call us today at 800-262-1049.