Full Grain – Top Grain – Split or Bonded Leather – What Does All This Mean?
Leather is one of the most popular materials used in furniture, especially for high-quality and luxurious pieces. However, not all leather is created equal. Different types of leather are used in furniture, each with unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Tru-Clean Surface Care is the “cleaner of choice” to many interior designers, leather retailers, realtors, and homeowners desirous of keeping their leather furniture in phenomenal shape. Annually we clean, hydrate, and protect hundreds of pieces of leather furniture and we know a thing or two about keeping leather clean and supple.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of leather for furniture and which is the best and why.
Full-grain leather
Full-grain leather is the highest quality leather used in furniture. It is made from the top layer of the hide, which is its strongest and most durable part. Full-grain leather is also the most natural and retains the natural markings and imperfections of the animal’s skin. It has a natural texture and a smooth surface that is soft to the touch. Full-grain leather is also breathable, making it comfortable to sit on for long periods. Because of its superior quality, full-grain leather is the most expensive type of leather used in furniture.
Top-grain leather
Top-grain leather is the second-highest quality leather used in furniture. It is made from the second layer of the hide and is sanded down to remove any imperfections or blemishes. Top-grain leather is thinner and more pliable than full-grain leather, making it easier to work with. It has a uniform surface that is smooth to the touch and has a slight sheen. Top-grain leather is also more affordable than full-grain leather, making it a popular choice for furniture manufacturers.
Split leather
Split leather is made from the bottom layer of the hide, which is the least durable part of the hide. It is also known as suede leather and has a fuzzy texture that is soft to the touch. Split leather is less durable than full-grain or top-grain leather and is prone to staining and discoloration. It is also more affordable than full-grain or top-grain leather.
Bonded leather
Bonded leather is made from scraps of leather that are blended with other materials, such as polyurethane. It is the least expensive type of leather used in furniture and is often marketed as “genuine leather.” However, bonded leather is less durable than other types of leather and can easily crack or peel over time. It is also not breathable, making it uncomfortable to sit on for long periods.
So, which type of leather is the best for furniture? It depends on your budget and preferences. Full-grain leather is the way to go if you want the highest quality and most durable leather. However, top-grain leather is a great option if you want something more affordable but still high quality. Split leather is best for decorative or accent pieces, while bonded leather should be avoided if you want a long-lasting piece of furniture.
Tru-Clean Surface Care is a Certified Partner with the prestigious Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the International Carpet & Rug Institute (CI). We are an eight-year-in-a-row winner of the coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award and are A+ Rated by the Better Business Bureau. Our leather cleaning, hydration, and sealer products are environmentally responsible and safe for pets and infants.
To ensure your leather furniture looks its best, it should be cleaned every 18-24 months. Our leather cleaning service utilizes top-quality cleaning agents that are applied by hand and designed to emulsify deep-set dirt, oils, dust mites, and pollen. We then moisturize the leather to guarantee its suppleness and to prevent cracking and increase its life usefulness. We can also apply a protector to protect your valuable leather against spills and potential staining.
If you would like to schedule a quality leather cleaning or have any questions about our services, please visit Tru-Clean Surface Care online at https://trucleansurfacecare.com/ or give us a call at 239-541-4888. You can also visit our Facebook Page at https://trucleansurfacecare.com/ Our leather care experts service Lee, Collier, and Charlotte County, Florida.
Choosing the right type of leather for your furniture is crucial in ensuring its durability, comfort, and appearance. Full-grain and top-grain leather are the best options for high-quality and long-lasting furniture, while split leather and bonded leather are more affordable but less durable. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which type of leather is best for your needs and budget.
