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How to Spot a Genuine Leather Sofa This sofa makes a fantastic addition to any space. The leather upholstery is buttery soft. People love its simple design and high-quality, genuine leather upholstery. However, distinguishing genuine leather from faux leather can be a challenge for the untrained eye. Here are six tips to help you differentiate between the two types: 1. Edges that are rough. 1. Take a look at the label Real leather has a distinct appearance and feel that's difficult to duplicate. It is also durable, easy-to-clean, and doesn't absorb excessive body oils. This makes it perfect for those suffering from allergies. However there are many different leather sofas that are created equally. In fact, some stores have even been known to pass off PVC as genuine leather. Understanding the different types of leather will help you avoid being ripped off. This includes determining the differences between top and full grain leather, and also evaluating the quality of the upholstery material. Discerning retailers will be more than happy to provide you with this information, so don't hesitate to inquire! The first step to identify a genuine leather sofa is to check the label. It should clearly indicate what kind of leather it is covered in, as well as any other materials like fabric or cotton. In addition, reputable suppliers will have clear policies regarding return or exchange in case you're dissatisfied with your purchase. If the sofa isn't marked with an identifier but you can figure out its authenticity by examining the fabric backing or opening a cushion casing to check for synthetic materials. You can also check the texture of the leather and determine whether it has any imperfections or bumps, since these are indicators that you're dealing in fake or bonded leather. You can also test the integrity of the sofa by touching its surface. Genuine leather will have an incredibly soft and smooth texture, while faux or bonded leather will be more coarse and more akin to suede. Additionally you will be able to feel the difference between the wrinkles and bumps of genuine leather and the printed patterns on faux leather. A genuine leather sofa is more expensive than a faux counterpart but it will last longer. It could end up becoming an important family heirloom with time. Place your leather sofa in a bright, cool room, away from heaters, fireplaces, and air conditioning units. This will help reduce the damage caused by humidity, heat, and Ozone. Additionally, you can use leather protection creams to keep your sofa supple and sturdy. 2. Look at the back If the label does not tell you what type of leather is in a sofa, it's essential to examine it close. The scent, the feel, and back will all be a clear indication of authenticity. When you touch the surface of genuine leather, it won't feel perfectly smooth. This is because animal hides have different pores that allow them to breathe. A product that feels totally smooth may be fake leather. Another thing to look for is bumps or an uneven surface. Genuine leather is made by rubbing away a portion of the rough outer layer. But if the material used to cover your sofa is top-grain leather it will still be bumpy. You can also test the leather by pressing your finger into it and then running it across it. If it is real, the leather will stretch and wrinkle a little similar to human skin. This means it's able to breathe, ensuring that the leather doesn't get dry and crack over time. Faux leather has a uniform pattern because it's printed, however genuine leather is prone to imperfections that contribute to the beauty and durability of the leather. This can be seen in scratches, creases and scuffs. A genuine leather sofa will be supple and slightly stiff when new, however it should not crack or dry out in time if it's regularly cleaned with a special leather protection cream. Some furniture makers mix real leather with synthetic leather to save money. The contact areas, such as seats, armrests, and backs, are constructed of genuine leather, while the non-contact parts like the outside and base arms, are upholstered using a less expensive polyurethane or leather-like synthetic fabric. Even if a couch is labeled as genuine leather, look closely at the backing to determine if it is genuine leather. Labels and pricing can help you determine if a sofa is genuine leather However, it is essential to look it over. Take a whiff, rub it and look at its back for a polyurethane backing, which is a clear sign that it's not genuine leather. 3. Take a look at the seat The seat of a genuine leather sofa is another indication of its quality. While most faux leather couches make use of various materials for the upholstery, genuine leather has a unique texture that feels smooth to the touch. It isn't totally uniform in color or shade. Be aware of bumps on the surface and a strong natural scent. These characteristics differentiate real leather from fakes and low-grade leather. If the leather is stitched in a continuous, huge piece, it's a dead giveaway. Although this isn't uncommon with faux leather, if you notice this on genuine top-grain leather, it's likely to indicate that the sofa isn't of high-quality and should be avoided. The price and label may provide an idea, but the only sure way to know is to feel the furniture. Genuine leather shouldn't be flawless and have a rough feel. leather modular sofa will also have rough edges and fat wrinkles beneath the surface. The softness of genuine leather is different from synthetic materials, and the temperature of the furniture will tell whether or not it's built with authentic materials. A leather sofa is a mainstay in interior design because it's elegant, durable and long-lasting. It's also easy to clean and resistant to liquid spills. This makes it a perfect option for families with children or pets. The best part about genuine leather, however it's that it's a timeless style that will never ever go out of fashion, and it's still accessible at a variety of price points. Consider the Pottery Barn's Turner leather sofa that will last for a lifetime. While this two-seater is more expensive however, it's constructed with high-end top-grain leather and has an elegant design that won't date quickly. It's a great option for those with small spaces, too, as it's available in three sizes and is compact enough to fit into most rooms. This All Modern Geo Genuine Leather sofa is a great choice if you want something modern. This couch is a mid-century modern-inspired style with an angular, sleek frame and asymmetrical cushions that are a perfect blend of form and function. The frame is made out of 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 couch, which was awarded the CHOICE's “Shonky” award in 2015. 4. Check out the smell Real leather has a distinctive scent – a natural, organic skin scent that is unable to be duplicated. If the sofa you are trying to buy has a strong smell of synthetic it's a sign that it isn't genuine. It is usually due to the chemicals used to make the leather, which linger in the furniture after it's been constructed and even after you take it home. A good way to test the quality of a leather sofa is to gently rub your fingers along the surface. Genuine leather will feel rough and show bumps and lumps like human skin. If it feels cold and smooth it's probably fake or it's bonded. You can also open one of the cushions to inspect the backing. False and bonded leather will have a polyurethane backing that supports the fabric, whereas genuine leather has an untreated back that is similar in appearance to coarse suede. If you notice a woven backing, it's an obvious sign that the couch isn't real leather. Peter says that the best method to determine whether a sofa is real is to gently run your fingernails over the surface. The roughness of the leather will make your fingernails duller and the surface will stretch and wrinkle slightly. It will also feel soft and warm to the touch. Another way to tell whether a sofa is genuine is to turn it on its side and look at the back of the sofa. Genuine leather is a solid piece of leather, not a plastic coated faux or bonded leather. Think about how often you'll use your leather sofa and how long it will last when choosing the quality. The more you use your couch the more attention it will require. Peter suggests regular and gentle cleaning with an exclusive leather conditioner to help maintain the suppleness of the leather and prevent it from becoming dry and hard.