The leather guide
When you bring leather furnishings into your home, you want them to go the distance. Here’s what you need to do to ensure that your leather only gets better with age.
Get to know different leather types and finishes
HIDE
Leather’s durability comes down to the quality of the hide, which is why we use top grain, the finest and strongest available.
Benson Leather Chair shown in Nubuck Leather, Caramel
Haven Leather Sectional shown in Saddle Leather, Nut
ANILINE LEATHER
If you’re ever wondering about the type of leather we use, it’s likely aniline. A soft, smooth-to-the-touch finish, it shows the natural variations of the hide and will get that lived-in patina as time passes.
SEMI-ANILINE LEATHER
This leather is dyed and treated with a protective top coat, so it’ll retain a more uniform finish. Don’t worry, though: You’ll still get the same richness of colour.
Dekalb Leather Sofa shown in Weston Leather, Molasses
Jack Metal Frame Leather Counter Stool shown in Saddle Leather, Banker
PIGMENT-DYED LEATHER
For this super-smooth finish, the hide is buffed or sanded and then shielded from spills and spots by a heavy protective top coat. Though not as soft as other options, it’s perfect for surfaces that are sure to be well-loved and it’s easier to clean, too.
Leather shades
& variations
Remember leather is a natural material, so slight differences in colour and texture are to be expected—they give your piece its own distinct character.
How to care for leather furniture
Once you bring your leather home, follow these tips to keep it soft and supple.
Keep it out of direct sunlight and away from heat to prevent fading, drying and cracking.
Dab a spill away using an absorbent cloth and distilled water—don’t rub or soak the stain—and leave grease and oil to melt into the material over time.
Dust or vacuum leather with a soft-bristle attachment, and use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep cushions looking brand new.
Rotate the cushions every few months to make sure the hide ages evenly.
If more serious damage occurs, call in a professional to help repair it.