Just like any big life investment, purchasing leather furniture should require thoughtful consideration and planning. What room will it go in, and who will be using it? Does it need to stand up to a household of pets and kids, or are you looking for a living room showpiece? And what’s the style of your home? It’s important to ask yourself these questions so that you can hone in on exactly what you need before you start shopping.

 

There are two basic types of leather to consider:

 

  1. Protected: which means uniform color, texture and feel – more durable – more contemporary – more formal – more suitable for children and pets.
  2. Unprotected: which means natural, “farm to table”, color variations, texture that reflects how and where the animal lived, will age unevenly like a horseback riding saddle and will develop a patina that reflects use over time, ok for children and pets BUT will reflect use – more casual – more lived in.

 

All leather requires periodic care, cleaning and conditioning to ensure a longer life and enduring beauty. Leather comes in a range of styles for different tastes and performance characteristics. Motion furniture leather tends to be protected because it is used more. Unprotected leather tends to be found on stationary pieces that are more stylish or unique.

 

Check out our furniture care guide for more tips on how to care and protect your investment.