Choosing the right sofa is much easier said than done. Regardless of whether you keep track of a large section or maybe a useful one sofa bedA quality sofa is the focal point of your living room. Struggling to choose which one to add to your space? We suggest a timeless classic like a leather sofa. It adds sophistication to any room. In addition, it ages like a fine wine when cared for properly. We’ve compiled a list of leather sofas that are not only stylish but also incredibly comfortable, because what’s more important than that?
To help us make your shopping experience a little easier and pinpoint the best leather sofas on the market, we enlisted the help of the designer Hema Persad. She says a leather sofa is the perfect choice for those who want a luxurious look that will stand the test of time, especially if your home is modern, sleek or follows a midcentury style. Persad points out that a leather sofa “can look dated if you choose the wrong silhouette. Make sure the silhouette isn’t too bulky. Leather tends to look better in a more streamlined silhouette.”
What to look for when buying a leather sofa:
There are many key factors to consider when investing in furniture, most notably materials and craftsmanship, functionality and use, style and design, and cost. Softness and suppleness are absolutely necessary to distinguish good quality leather from something substandard. “The softer and more supple it is, the higher the quality. Lower quality leather tends to be stiff and prone to cracking,” says Persad. She also recommends paying attention to details, such as checking the seams for proper stitching. “The leather should be firm but not too stiff, and any dye should not rub off when you touch it,” she advises.
If durability is your top priority, especially something that won’t scratch, she suggests prioritizing options that aren’t too stiff and avoiding couches that are overdyed with too much synthetic pigment. For comfort, Persad recommends choosing “something with texture so you don’t slide around, and something with a shape that allows you to sink in a little, but still provides support.”
What to consider for a vegan leather sofa:
Several retailers also offer vegan leather options, but not all vegan leather is of equal quality. Persad points out that “vegan leathers made from plant materials (ie cactus) tend to have a better and more advanced feel than synthetic materials, probably because the synthetics contain plastics that don’t provide that supple feel you want from leather.” Vegan leather sofas are a good option for those with children and pets too, as it is a durable material.
How to care for a leather sofa:
Although aged leather has a certain charm, that doesn’t mean maintenance isn’t necessary. Persad recommends conditioning your sofa with a leather conditioner every year. “Try not to get wet, wipe up water/liquid spills immediately and keep it out of direct sunlight,” she advises.
There really is something for every home, and ahead we found the best leather sofas on the market. Keep reading to shop our top picks.
Expert presented in this article
Hema Persad is the founder of Sagrada Studio and art director for “Property Brothers” on HGTV.
