1. What do l need to know about leather?

It's essential to understand that every leather skin is unique! Through tanning, natural characteristics such as insect bites, wrinkles, scars, and variations in grain color are preserved, reflecting the animal's life. As a result, each hide displays distinctive characteristics that ensure its authenticity. Variations in shades and tones occur due to differences in skins and their fiber structures, which is entirely normal. While vinyl provides consistent color, it can't match the beauty and comfort of natural leather.

2. What are the best practices for preserving and maintaining the beauty of leather?

Consumers appreciate leather for its ease of maintenance, but it's not impervious to damage. Generally, denser leather is more resistant to splashes and stains. Untreated leather can easily absorb oils from skin and hair, making it more susceptible to soiling. It can also be stained by abrasive cleaners, powdered products, and organic solvents. For routine leather cleaning, a cloth with water and soap is usually sufficient. Simply wipe the leather with a soft, damp cloth—not soaked—to remove dust and dirt. This should be done every three months or more frequently if needed. There are also several leather cleaners on the market that contain lubricating agents to keep the leather smooth. To maintain flexibility, apply a leather care product annually, available at our stores. If your leather is heavily soiled, you might need a mild detergent solution, though professional cleaning is always advisable. If you choose to clean it yourself, be aware that some detergent solutions may not have a balanced pH or could contain ingredients that might harm the leather. It's best to test all cleaning products on an inconspicuous area of the furniture first. Pets may sometimes chew or scratch leather. While leather is more durable than most fabrics, it is still susceptible to damage from pet claws and saliva. Unfortunately, there’s no way to fully prevent this. Additionally, avoid placing leather furniture directly in sunlight or near radiators, as these can dry out and damage the material. Natural leather is a valuable investment, especially when it is properly maintained!

3. What is the lifespan of a leather sofa?

A leather sofa can last up to four times longer than most fabric sofas, often enduring 20 years or more with regular residential use. Once tanned, leather can retain much of its original appearance as long as it is not exposed to direct sunlight. Regular annual cleaning and moisturizing will help extend the sofa's lifespan. Additionally, it is typical to replace the foam cushion cores after about 10 years to maintain optimal seating comfort.

4. Why should I choose a higher grade of leather?

All leather undergoes a dyeing process that involves washing, drying, sorting, and then applying color using various techniques. Here are several notable aspects of higher-grade leather: ·Higher grades of leather typically come from cows in the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in fewer markings like barbed wire scars and insect bites. ·Higher grades of leather tend to be more supple because they often have less finish coating applied to the surface of the hide.