Bonded Versus Genuine Leather: Pros And Cons

There are so many artificial man-made materials in our homes that it is getting harder and harder to appreciate the natural ones. Yet, this is a pity, as only genuine furniture materials can provide increased comfort and durability. This becomes obvious on the example of bonded leather furniture versus genuine leather furniture. Here are some pros and cons both types offer – so you can see the difference for yourself.

Genuine leather pros

Natural and highly durable material – the main advantage of leather is its durability. Sure, it is not indestructible but it is one of the most durable natural materials ever. A genuine leather sofa, for instance, will look good as new for many years after the purchase.

Genuine leather cons

Expensive – high durability explains high price on leather furniture. However, designing a living room  with leather looks rich and exquisite, so the high price is quite a logical drawback.

Harder than bonded leather – leather is relatively hard material, and it will be quite hard to sit on even if the cushioning material is very soft. It is harder than bonded leather and it is definitely much harder than velvet or fabric. On the one hand, it is a drawback, yet on the other one – it all comes back to durability.

Bonded leather pros

Cheap – bonded leather is an artificial material, and it is not that difficult to produce. This explains a relatively low price on the bonded leather items. Sure, it is more expensive than fabric, but it is way cheaper than genuine leather.

Soft – bonded leather is a very soft material. On the scale from velvet cushions and genuine leather cushions it stays exactly in the middle.

Bonded leather cons

Crumbles – bonded leather crumbles a lot, especially bonded leather sofas. Plus, it will start crumbling pretty much from the start. If you are going to get yourself a bonded leather sofa, get ready to clean up every day.

Not durable at all – bonded leather is a thin and totally not durable material. Unless you are very careful with it, it can get torn pretty quick.

Expensive to reupholster – if it gets torn, you will not be able to repair it. If it is a sofa we are talking about, you will have to completely reupholster it, and this is quite expensive – both the work and the material. Plus, there is a chance that you will have to do it quite often.

So, the final choice is totally up to you. Yet, the conclusion you should come to is that genuine leather is definitely a higher quality, more durable material. Whereas you can downsize and purchase chairs with faux leather backs, a faux leather chair cushions, and especially a faux leather sofa is not a good idea. If you cannot afford a genuine leather sofa, it would be better to buy a model with velvet upholstery rather than look for bonded leather couches, which will not last. And, if you are looking for a store where you can find some affordable furniture solutions, try visiting Furniture in Fashion .