A leather sofa is a piece of furniture that incorporates style with practicality in a home space. It is sturdy and durable, making it a good long-term addition to a household. However, such furniture products are often expensive. Therefore, besides picking the right aesthetics for one’s home, including a leather sofa, there are several specifics to consider. Keep reading to find out five things to keep in mind before buying a leather sofa.

Check closely for tiny imperfections

When buying a leather sofa, look for tiny imperfections. They indicate its authenticity, as real leather is never completely smooth. Those interested in buying a genuine leather couch should check the material for minor grooves and unevenness.

Other ways to determine if the leather is genuine include-

• Smelling the leather for a rustic or robust smell instead of a chemical-heavy smell
• Checking for rough, unfinished edges
• Looking for a marking, label, or certification identifying its authenticity.

Consider aging

Since leather is a natural material, it tends to age over time. That means one may not have a perennially new-looking leather couch. With daily wear and tear, leather upholstery may also begin to develop marks or changes in color, adding a touch of uniqueness to the furniture.

Learn about the quality and types of leather

There are different types and qualities of leather, such as full-grain leather, top-grain leather, bonded leather, and synthetic leather. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and tends to improve with age. In comparison, cheap leather may crack, peel, or fade quickly, giving the home a ragged look.

Take regular maintenance into account

Leather couches demand less maintenance than linen or velvet counterparts, but they still require proper care. Those with young children or pets should check the material’s durability against scratches and stains. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent splitting, fading, and other minor damage. To do this, use a soft, dry cloth for quick day-to-day maintenance. Additionally, do a monthly wipe-down using a leather cleaning wipe to ensure optimal condition.

Budget well

The prices of leather sofas can vary greatly depending on the type of leather, style, quality, brand, grade, colors, and care. Leather sofas are generally a sturdy addition to one’s home, lasting for years on end. To make a well-informed decision for one’s home, one should carefully consider these aspects and set a budget.