Whether you want to upgrade or want pieces that fit with a whole new space, picking the right furniture can be a tricky task.  If you’ve decided to include leather furnishings into your home decor, take a minute to think about the price and quality of the leather furniture that you want to purchase.

Furniture is an investment that will most likely be a part of your home for years to come. What you choose to spend now could make the difference between furniture that will last years and furniture that will last a few months.

Discover the differences between quality and cheap leather furniture.

• Smell. Natural leather has a distinct smell. Faux leather usually smells like vinyl or can even have a chemical odor that lingers on clothing. While not vital to visual esthetic, the smell your furnishings give off really boils down to personal preference.
• Cracking. Also a common characteristic of faux leather, cracking is more common in low quality materials. Real leather has a natural curve that prevents wrinkling. Furniture must withstand weight and movement, so think about how the leather furniture will be used. Is it going to be in the family room of a family of 5, or placed in a chic foyer and barely used? Each scenario calls for a different type of leather.
• Stain Resistance. Cheap materials are not made to fight against stains. Typically, faux fabrics absorb stains quickly unlike quality material such as natural leather that pushes stains to roll right off its surface. This is especially important to keep in mind when selecting furniture for the dining areas of your home.
• Texture. Similar to what makes furniture’s material stain resistant, the texture of a piece of furniture can lead to a make-or-break decision. Cheaply made linens and cottons feel rough and have a scratchy outer layer. Quality made linens, cottons, and velvets tend to feel softer and smoother. Consider the importance of texture when deciding on furniture for rooms where you and guests go to rest, such as, the bedroom and family room where comfort is essential.
• Framing. Invest in furniture that is built to last. Frequent issues that cheaper materials face are shredding, tearing, and loss of shape. While higher quality materials can become victim to these as well, it is less common and takes a lot longer to occur. While furniture shopping, pay attention to the framing of the piece and invest in furniture made of quality wood to ensure long lasting furniture that maintains its shape.

Ultimately, if you spend more money today, you will ultimately save more tomorrow. When it comes to furniture choices, it’s better to go authentic because the quality of the furniture that you choose affects comfort, style, and longevity. For more tips and advice about furniture selections, contact me today!