Fabric vs. Leather Chairs and Sofas

Choosing a new chair or sofa is a big investment, so it’s important that it stands the test of time and complements your personal taste. As well as deciding whether you want a classic or contemporary style, and deciding on a colour, one of the key things to consider is if you prefer a leather or fabric sofa or chair.

Leather is a great option when it comes to chairs, sofas and recliners. It’s a durable material that resists wear and tear – and it only looks better as it ages. Leather’s also easy to clean. 

Lovers of colours and patterns might be drawn to fabric chairs over leather, as there’s a huge range to choose from whether you’re looking for something bright and bold or classic and refined.

Both are great options, so ultimately, the choice between leather and fabric for your chair, sofa or recliner comes down to individual preference. With that in mind, let’s dig a little deeper into the differences to help you decide which material is right for your lifestyle.

One of the first things you’ll want to think about is how you want your chair or sofa to feel. Do you want a smooth leather, or a tactile fabric? Some people have sensory issues and dislike certain fabrics, while others simply prefer one fabric – or leather – over another. Luckily, with such a wide choice, there’s something for everyone, no matter your preferences. 

Leather chairs and sofas sometimes need to be broken in – like a pair of leather boots or a jacket. Initially, a leather chair might feel stiff, but it’ll relax over time and with regular use. That means that even if it feels a little stiff when brand new, with time, it’ll feel even more comfortable.

A chair or sofa – especially if you’re having it in your living room – is going to be one of your most-used pieces of furniture. It’s important, then, that it’s durable and can stand up to wear and tear, spills, and stains.

Leather is naturally more durable than fabric. With the right love and care, a leather chair or sofa can last a lifetime – although this does depend on the type of leather used. 

Although leather is easy to clean, it may be prone to scratches and cracks, so it’s important to treat it properly to prevent drying and cracking. You can gently wipe leather with a damp cloth to clean it, and use a specialist leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and ensure it looks good for years to come.

When it comes to fabric sofas, chairs and recliners, the longevity depends on the material used. Fabric chairs tend to be more prone to stains and odours, meaning it’s important to ensure you regularly clean and vacuum. Because we want to make your life as easy as possible here at HSL, our collection includes a range of Aqua Clean fabrics with antibacterial and stain release technology, allowing you to clean household stains with just water.

Leather or fabric: when it comes to style, it really is a matter of personal preference. 

Leather is timeless and luxurious, adding a touch of sophistication to any home. Whether it’s a riser recliner chair in your favourite relaxing spot or a stylish leather sofa in the living room, leather fits perfectly in any room, no matter what your personal style is.

Fabric chairs and sofas come in a wider range of colours and patterns, so if you want to match them with your existing decor, are looking to add a pop of colour to a room, or want to make a statement with a bold pattern, you should consider choosing fabric over leather. 

You can also browse our range of designer fabrics, which offer iconic prints and traditional craftsmanship. Our range includes well-known brands like Sanderson; their look combines classic, hand-drawn patterns with fresh and vibrant colours that will add uniqueness to any living space.

Morris & Co are famous for their iconic Strawberry Thief and Acanthus Velvet fabrics, perfect for making a statement in your home.

Moon designs bring timeless check fabric designs into their range and are perfect for helping to create a warm, country cottage feel in your living space 

Read more about our designer rage here.

Whether you choose a plain fabric in your favourite colour, a classic check design, or a designer fabric, the sheer variety of options makes it easy to find the perfect match for your home.

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to style – it all depends on your personal taste and the way you want your home to look and feel. Leather offers a timeless elegance, while fabric chairs and sofas mean you have a huge selection of colours, patterns and textures to choose from.

Another thing to consider when choosing between fabric and leather for a chair, sofa or recliner is your lifestyle. There are certain things – like having pets and children in your household – that can impact your decision. 

When it comes to our furry friends, unfortunately, there is no such thing as scratch-proof fabrics; this is why many pet owners opt for leather chairs, as these are also easy to wipe down in the case of any accidents.

Similarly, for families with young children, easy cleaning is critical. Leather can be wiped clean easily, meaning it's also a practical option for kids and clumsy adults.

If you love the look of a fabric chair and have children and pets, we suggest a tightly woven fabric as they are less likely to snag on sharp claws. We'd also suggest a darker colour or a beautiful pattern if you're worried about marks, as this will make them far less noticeable. 

We'd suggest a damp cloth if you need to remove a stain on both leather and fabric sofas. Remember to spot-check this discreetly so it doesn't leave a visible mark. We recommend a specialist cleaner to eliminate the stress of cleaning and to ensure your beautiful furniture stays in top condition.

Leather sofas and chairs are typically more expensive than fabric ones. However, it’s important to bear in mind that leather often has a longer lifespan, which can mean that it’s good value over time. 

Fabric chairs and sofas are usually less expensive, and today, there are so many fabric options offering durability, a choice of styles and comfort. With proper care, fabric chairs and sofas can stay looking fantastic for years to come, making them a great choice for those looking for a stylish, affordable option.

However, it’s also important to remember that it’s not just fabric choice that contributes to the price point of a chair or sofa, but also the type of chair you opt for. From fireside chairs to riser recliners, we have a wide selection of chairs at different price points, to suit different needs. And when it comes to sofas, you can choose from two-seater sofas, recliner sofas, and everything in between. Browse our sofas or chairs, or use our Chair Finder to find the right option for you.

The choice between leather and fabric ultimately comes down to personal taste. Leather is sophisticated and luxurious, while fabric gives you a choice of colours, patterns and textures. Your choice may be influenced by your lifestyle, including whether you have pets and children, and cost may also be a consideration.

We have a huge range of chairs, sofas and recliners here at HSL, in a choice of fabrics and leather options. Browse our fabrics and leathers range to find your favourite, and visit us in your local HSL showroom to try out some different options.