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Of all the living room sofa options out there, a leather one can be appealing for many reasons. They’re timelessly stylish, durable, luxurious, an, perhaps most importantly for some, they wipe-clean. Whatever you’re looking for in a couch, you’ll find something to love on our list of the best leather sofas—and they’re all available to order from online furniture stores.
When you think of leather couches, it’s easy to picture a weathered, bulging behemoth the size of a horse trailer, something that’s lurked decadently in the bowels of some dimly lit gentleman’s drinking club since the 1940s. But leather doesn’t have to mean old school.
“With its broad arms and plush cushions, paired with perfectly balanced proportions and standout legs, this couch is a contemporary marvel,” says Artem Kropovinsky, an interior design expert and founder of Arsight, an award-winning interior design studio based in NYC. “The design effortlessly merges style and comfort, making it an exemplary piece for modern interiors.”
“When looking for a sleeper sofa, you want something that’s functional, aesthetic, and comfortable–this piece from La-Z-Boy does all that and more,” says Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell. Unfolding into a full-size bed, this is a conveniently smaller size than many sleeper sofas, making it ideal for those looking to fit a tighter space, while keeping things comfy and elegant.
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If you’re looking for something bigger in a sleeper sofa, try this queen-sized model from Crate and Barrel, which takes the novel approach of using an inflatable air mattress for its bed form. “The air cushion layer elevates sleeping comfort, doubling the plushness of typical sofa bed mattresses,” says Kropovinsky. “The advanced, self-sealing valve, coupled with an air pump, ensures easy inflation within seconds.”
/https://static.havenly.com/product/production/sha256_17bacd4ea4b454f6b8bfa99360dfdaccf36bdf2e3c8212d45cf0206e005549f7.jpeg "Article Cigar Rawhide Tan Reversible Sectional")
Since a leather sofa is such a big investment, it can lessen the sting knowing you’re able to adapt it to new spaces after a move. Going for a modular couch just makes sense in this context. “The versatile design of Article’s sectional allows you to rearrange it to fit any space or aesthetic,” says Kropovinsky. “Coupled with premium leather finish, it effortlessly combines style with functionality.”
Speaking from personal experience, a dark leather sofa was a great fit for a house with two babies, as everything they spilled on it could be wiped off quickly, rarely leaving a mark. Pets—with their leather-scratching claws—are another story, though, which is why we’re recommending this option.
Made from vegan leather, which is naturally more scratch-resistant than genuine leather, the Inside Weather Bondi 5-Seater Sofa will take what your kids and pets can (often literally) throw at it. It also “provides a lot of modular options for your sofa, meeting all the configuration and sizing needs you might have,” adds Snisar.
/https://static.havenly.com/product/production/md5_aa390568b2c439c147c1dc55cadb6b24.jpeg "Turner Roll Arm Leather Sofa")
As you’re no doubt aware, leather sofas aren’t cheap, so “value” here is somewhat relative. Still, for a little over three grand, this is an extremely nice–and large!–couch without the extreme sticker shock. “Pottery Barn’s Turner Leather Roll Arm Sofa is great, as it gives you top-grain leather with an aniline dye, making sure that the leather develops a rich patina over time,” says Snisar.
/https://static.havenly.com/product/development/md5_2cac08a5632d8694a0efecacf83c6b3e.jpeg "CB2 Lenyx Saddle Brown Leather Sofa")
“Crafted from top-notch buffalo leather, this sofa showcases exceptional craftsmanship,” says Kropovinsky. “The sinuous wire suspension ensures durability and comfort. A combination of these premium materials makes it a leader in quality and longevity.” The sofa’s majority five-star customer reviews certainly back up that statement.
Albany Park’s Park Sectional Sofa was our top leather pick on our list of the most comfortable couches (not to mention a top pick on our list of the best sectional sofas) so it made sense to include it again here. It was recommended to us by Snisar, who praises its sturdy frame and thick, comfortable cushions. Snisar also points out that it’s made of vegan leather, a more environmentally-friendly option than traditional leather.
A leather sofa is a hefty investment, so you need to think carefully about exactly what you need from it. Kropovinsky provides the following advice on what to look for to find the best couches for you:
“A vital aspect to consider when purchasing a leather sofa is its source and grade. Not all leathers are created equal–some may be genuine while others are synthetic. Your choice will affect durability, feel, and price.”
“Space and proportions are integral. While a sprawling Chesterfield might be the dream, it might swallow up a small space, making it feel cramped. Always measure twice and buy once.”
“Craftsmanship matters. Look beyond the exterior–inspect stitching, cushion quality, and the frame. A beautiful leather exterior can be deceptive if what's underneath isn't built to last.”
Snisar adds you should also consider the following:
“Sofas aren’t just for their looks, you need to make sure that they have functionality as well. Pick a sofa with a cushion that's right for you: Hard foams are good for support, whereas soft forms are usually recommended when you’re looking for comfort, though these are less likely to be found in seating options.”
“There are essentially three major finishes common across all sofas: Aniline, semi-aniline, and pigmented. Aniline is soft but more susceptible to staining. Pigmented is when the surface is coated with a polymer layer, which makes it more resistant to wear and tear but harder to sit on. Semi-aniline is a good balance between the two.”
We made our selections through a combination of expert advice from design pros with many years of experience in the furniture realm, thorough research, and combing through customer reviews to find the very best of the best.
“Stay away from harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths,” warns Kropovinsky. “Instead, opt for a mild soap solution with lukewarm water, using a soft cloth. It's gentle yet effective. Be sure to wipe away spills immediately to prevent staining: remember, leather is porous and can absorb liquids, affecting its appearance and longevity. For deeper cleans, trust professional products or services. This ensures your sofa remains in pristine condition without risking damage from generic cleaning agents.”
“With proper care, a high-quality leather sofa can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years,” says Kropovinsky. “But remember, ‘proper care’ is the keyword. Leather isn’t just a material, it's an investment. Like all investments, the returns are dependent on how well you manage and maintain them.”
“When you think of leather sofas, two colors pop into mind, and they’ll likely be black and brown,” says Snisar. “This makes sense because these two color palettes can match a diverse set of furniture and styles. Brown, especially, can come out with a wonderful patina over time that helps the whole sofa shine. Whether you’re going for something more modern or rustic chic, just pop in one of these colors and immediately notice that it blends right in with everything else.”
“While browns and blacks are timeless, recent years have seen a surge in popularity for neutral tones like taupe, gray, and off-white,” adds Kropovinsky. “These colors offer a contemporary feel and can easily blend into various interior themes.”
To keep your leather sofa looking good, Kropovinsky recommends the following:
“Leather can dry out or crack. A good conditioner, applied every 6-12 months, keeps it supple and resistant to wear.”
“Leather doesn't fare well under direct sunlight for prolonged periods. It may fade or dry out. Find a spot that's away from direct sunlight or frequently rotate the sofa's position.”
“Dust and debris can be abrasive. A gentle vacuum, using a soft brush attachment, keeps the surface clean and prevents untimely wear.”
“In the realm of interior design, a leather sofa isn't just seating, it's a statement,” concludes Kropovinsky. “It tells tales of luxury, timeless taste, and an appreciation for the finer things in life. But like all good tales, it requires the right care to continue being told.”
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