Purchasing a sofa can be surprisingly overwhelming: but what’s so stressful you might ask? When faced with the sheer amount of choice, it’s hard to know where to start: modern chic or traditional charm? Should I buy a leather or a fabric sofa? Bold prints or soothing neutrals? Low back or high back? Fixed or loose cushions?! The options seem endless, but fear not – we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

A great place to start hunting for your perfect sofa is to decide what material you want. A sofa is an investment – you want something that will last through the years and take a fair amount of general wear – so knowing what kind of material would suit your lifestyle best is important. Let’s weigh the pros and cons of choosing to buy a leather sofa versus opting for a fabric sofa.

An argument for fabric sofas: things to consider before buying  

Fabric sofas offer huge choice as they come in many different colours, patterns and materials. From cottons & weaves to velvets & chenilles, modern fabrics are constructed from a myriad of different materials ranging from the traditional to the technologically advanced.

Whilst leather sofas come in more than just black and brown, they are somewhat limited when it comes to patterns. If you’re looking for a bold statement piece in a dramatic design – then you might want to go for a fabric sofa.

You can choose a patterned finish as a centrepiece for your room or go with a neutral and modern choice, like our Cadiz fabric sofa. You can then use printed cushions or an accent chair to add a touch of glam or perhaps contrast stitching to highlight detail.

Cadiz fabric sofa range

Fabric sofas are comfortable and soft to the touch, however they are generally less practical than leather sofas. So if you’ve got pets who shed and little ones who like to get a bit messy, bear in mind that fabric sofas can’t be wiped clean (you might have to take the cushion covers to be dry cleaned depending on the material) and stains can’t be wiped off immediately.

Tips on how to clean a fabric sofa

  1. Vacuum or brush down the sofa to remove any dust or excess dirt.
  2. Use a mild laundry detergent mixed with water or baby wipes to spot clean any obvious stains.
  3. Give the rest of the sofa an overall clean with a small amount of soapy water.
  4. Allow the sofa to dry naturally, opening any windows or doors to allow extra air into the room.

How long do fabric sofas last?

One other consideration than can influence your decision on which whether to choose a fabric sofa, is the lifespan. As there are so many mitigating factors, the average lifespan of a fabric sofa can range from 5 to 15 years but it’s dependant on several variables. Here are a few key factors that influence your sofas longevity:

  1. Quality of materials: The type and quality of the fabric used in the sofa play a significant role in its lifespan. High-quality, durable fabrics such as microfiber, high-grade linen, or synthetic blends tend to last longer than low-quality, less durable materials.
  2. Usage and lifestyle: How the sofa is used and the lifestyle of the people using it matter. A sofa in a high traffic living room where it’s used daily will likely wear out faster than one in a formal sitting room that sees minimal use. Pets and children can also contribute to wear and tear.
  3. Exposure to sunlight: Direct exposure to sunlight can cause fabric colours to fade and weaken the fabric over time. Using window treatments or rearranging furniture to minimize sun exposure can help.
  4. Pets and allergens: If you have pets that shed or family members with allergies, these factors can affect the sofa’s condition. Pet claws and allergens can contribute to fabric wear and may require more frequent cleaning.
  5. Regular maintenance and repairs: The willingness to invest in occasional maintenance and repairs can significantly extend the life of a fabric sofa. Reupholstering or replacing cushions, fixing loose springs, or repairing minor frame damage can breathe new life into an older sofa.

On the reverse side…

An argument for leather sofas: things to consider before buying 

Leather sofas are a very popular and practical furniture choice as they are hard wearing, resistant to tearing and stains, and with such durable designs, they’re a worthwhile investment for the future.

From protected or pigmented options with their uniform finish to untreated aniline leathers with natural marking as part of their appeal, there is a huge variety to choose from. They have natural longevity and keep well as most leathers soften and improve with age.

No longer just a luxury item, a leather sofa can make a beautiful statement in any living room. If you’re going for timeless, traditional elements, try a Chesterfield design (like our Churchill sofa range, which features classic button and studding detailing). Or go for a sleek and minimal style (like our Selvino leather sofa).

Churchill 3.5 Seat Sofa In Leather

Leather is a good option if you are sensitive to dust mites or pet hair, as they won’t accumulate as many allergens as a fabric sofa will. It’s also easy to give a leather sofa a basic clean (simply wipe down to remove dust or spills); however they may require protective treatments and are susceptible to nicks and scratches.

As far as value goes, whilst the perception may be that leather sofas are more expensive, it’s a fairly level playing field and you’ll find great fabrics and leathers at every price level.

How long do leather sofas last?

While a leather sofa can last between 10 to 20 years (longer than the fabric sofa), there can be more cleaning and care involved to maintain your leather sofa but should not deter you from the beauty that a leather sofa can provide.

  1. Quality of leather: The type and quality of leather used in the sofa significantly affect its lifespan. Full-grain and top-grain leather are typically more durable and long-lasting than bonded or faux leather materials.
  2. Quality of cushions: The quality of the sofa’s cushions, both seat and back, impacts its lifespan. High-quality foam or coil spring cushions tend to retain their shape and support better than low-quality foam cushions that can lose their resilience over time.
  3. Maintenance and care: Proper maintenance and care are essential to extend a leather sofa’s lifespan. Here are some care tips:
  • Regular cleaning: Wipe down the sofa with a clean, damp cloth or a leather-specific cleaner to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive water.
  • Conditioning: Leather can dry out and lose its natural oils over time. Use a leather conditioner or cream to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking or drying.
  • Avoid sunlight: Direct sunlight can cause leather to fade and age prematurely. Place the sofa away from direct sunlight or use window treatments to block UV rays.
  • Prevent spills: Be cautious with liquids and food around the sofa to prevent spills and stains. If a spill occurs, blot it gently with a clean, dry cloth immediately.
  • Rotate cushions: If your sofa has removable cushions, rotate and flip them regularly to distribute wear evenly.
  • Avoid sharp objects: Be mindful of sharp objects, pets’ claws, or jewellery that could scratch or puncture the leather.
  • Pets: Pets can scratch leather with their claws. Consider using furniture protectors or training your pets to avoid climbing on the sofa.

So, the ultimate question: should you buy a leather sofa or a fabric sofa? As you’ve probably gathered by now, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and your specific needs.