Different types of leather not only provide sofas with a unique look and feel but also directly affect their practicality and comfort. In this article, we will explore various types of leather and recommend options suitable for Singaporean homes.
Types of Leather
The allure of leather sofas stems from the materials used, generally classified into the following categories:
- Full-grain leather: This is the most unprocessed form of cowhide, with the surface left untouched to preserve its natural textures and imperfections. Since full-grain leather retains its natural, unaltered surface, it can be more prone to scratches and marks, and sensitive to prolonged exposure to sunlight or water, which can cause it to fade, dry out, or crack. Full-grain leather is favoured by high-end furniture buyers for its breathability and durability.
- Top-grain leather: This leather is cut from the top layer of the hide and slightly polished, maintaining some of the natural textures. It is more robust than full-grain leather and better suited for daily use.
- Split leather / Genuine leather: Cut from the lower layers of the hide, it often has a synthetic material overlaid to mimic the appearance of natural leather. Unlike full-grain leather and top-grain leather, split leather doesn’t have the same natural look or feel. This is because the surface of split leather is technically an interior layer of the hide. So things like pores, lines on the skin, etc. are entirely absent unless they are artificially embossed or impressed onto the leather. Split leather is also often called “genuine leather,” which is a misleading industry term. In reality, genuine leather, or suede, is a specific term used only to describe lower-quality split leathers. Though less expensive, split leather lacks the comfort and durability of the prior types.
- Synthetic leather (e.g., PU leather): A completely synthetic chemical material, it imitates the look and feel of natural leather and is suitable for buyers on a budget.
Differences Between Them
When choosing the right type of leather, consider the following factors:
- Appearance: Full-grain and top-grain leathers retain the most natural appearance, whereas synthetic leather might have a more uniform texture.
- Craftsmanship: Top-grain and full-grain leathers undergo less processing, keeping the leather’s natural texture, while split and synthetic leathers involve more artificial modification and processing.
- Durability: Full-grain and top-grain leathers are more durable than synthetic leather, which can experience significant peeling over time.
- Maintenance: Full-grain leather requires more meticulous care, while synthetic leather is relatively easier to maintain.
- Price: Full-grain leather > Top-grain leather > Split leather > Synthetic leather (PU leather)
Best Leather Options for Singaporean Homes
Considering Singapore's unique climatic conditions and environment, we recommend two types of leather with better breathability: full-grain and top-grain leather. They preserve the natural textures of cowhide and are better suited for homes looking for contemporary sofas.
If you are concerned about scars and imperfections on the leather, top-grain leather might be a better choice as it undergoes slight modifications to its appearance while still retaining the texture of the leather, offering better durability and easier maintenance than full-grain leather.
For those who cherish a luxurious, raw experience, full-grain leather is also an excellent choice.
