Leather

Leather types

Upholstery leathers differ mainly in how the surface is finished. The less finish, the more natural the look and the more care it asks for.

By cut. Full-grain leather keeps the whole grain with no correction. Corrected-grain leather has the grain partly buffed away and re-finished. A split is the lower layer of the hide. Bonded leather is a board made of at least 50% leather fibres; it is not leather. Upholstery leather is usually between 0.9 and 1.4 mm thick.

Technical values

EN 13336 is the European standard for upholstery leather. Its minimum requirements show how the three main types compare.

In short: pigmented leather stands up best to sunlight and rubbing; aniline is the most natural and the most sensitive. These are the standard's minimums, not the test results of a particular leather.

Natural marks are not defects

Healed scars, the odd insect bite, neck and belly wrinkles, veins and shade variation are signs that the leather came from an animal. They do not affect durability. They show most on aniline leather, because nothing covers the grain. Aniline leather also darkens with light and use and develops a patina.

Care

1. Dust once a week with a dry, soft cloth or the brush head of a vacuum cleaner.
2. Blot spills at once with a dry cloth. Do not rub, let it dry on its own, and do not use a hairdryer.
3. At least twice a year, clean with a cleaner made for leather to remove body oils and perspiration.
4. Keep at least 30 cm away from radiators and air vents. Prolonged heat dries leather out and cracks it.
5. Keep out of direct sunlight. Aniline, nubuck and suede fade fastest.
6. Nubuck: no cream. Vacuum, brush the nap, and dab a stain without rubbing.

Never use: solvents, alcohol, bleach, household cleaners, spray polish or saddle soap.

Which leather for which home?

Frequently asked questions

Does real leather crack?

It can, if it dries out from heat or neglect. Leather kept away from heat sources and cleaned regularly stays supple.

Does leather peel?

Peeling is a problem typical of bonded and faux leather. We use neither.

Is a leather sofa a good idea with pets?

Pigmented leather resists best, but no leather is scratch-proof. Aniline scratches most easily.

Will leather fade?

In direct sunlight, yes. The minimum light fastness is 3 for aniline and 5 for pigmented leather, so the choice of type matters in a sunny room.

What is the difference between aniline and semi-aniline?

Aniline has no pigment: it is the most natural and the most vulnerable. Semi-aniline carries a light pigmented coat, so the colour is more even and it is easier to keep.

Is the colour on screen the real colour?

Not exactly. Every screen renders colour differently, and leather is a natural material. For a precise match, write to us with the colour code.