Fabric vs. Leather Furniture: Which Is Better for Your Home?

Est. Reading Time: 7 Mins

What Is Fabric Upholstery?

Fabric upholstery includes a wide range of natural and synthetic fibres designed for comfort, style, and versatility. At La-Z-Boy, fabric options range from cotton and linen blends to high-performance synthetics like microfiber and stain-resistant technologies.

Fabric furniture is often chosen for its soft, cozy feel and its ability to adapt to different design styles. With thousands of colours, textures, and patterns available, fabric makes it easy to personalize a space and coordinate with existing décor.

Mary Lee notes that fabric is especially appealing for customers who want flexibility. “Fabric allows you to create a look that feels layered and expressive, whether that means subtle neutrals or bold statement pieces.”

What Is Leather Upholstery?

Leather upholstery is valued for its durability, natural beauty, and refined appearance. Over time, quality leather develops a patina that adds character rather than showing wear.

La-Z-Boy offers multiple leather types, including protected, top-grain, and full-grain leathers, each with different textures and performance levels. While leather may feel firmer at first, it softens with use and adapts to body temperature, providing long-term comfort.

Leather furniture is often selected for high-traffic rooms or homes where easy cleaning and longevity are priorities.

Fabric vs. Leather: Pros and Cons Overview

This overview highlights why neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on how the furniture will be used, who will be using it, and the overall look you want to achieve in your space.

Comfort: Fabric vs. Leather

Fabric furniture is widely appreciated for its immediate softness and breathability, making it comfortable from the moment you sit down. Natural fibres allow airflow, while synthetic performance fabrics add durability and stain resistance without sacrificing comfort. Many homeowners prefer fabric for relaxed spaces where lounging, napping, or casual entertaining is common.

Leather, on the other hand, adapts to body temperature over time. It stays cool in warmer months and warm in cooler seasons, which can be especially appealing in rooms that get a lot of sunlight. While leather may feel firmer initially, it often becomes more supple and comfortable with regular use.

For households where people spend long periods on their furniture, comfort often comes down to personal preference rather than one material clearly outperforming the other.

Appearance and Style

Fabric offers unmatched versatility in appearance, making it easy to suit traditional, modern, eclectic, or transitional interiors. With endless colour, pattern, and texture options, fabric allows homeowners to refresh a room’s look without replacing the furniture frame. This flexibility is especially useful for trend-driven spaces or seasonal updates.

Leather provides a refined, polished aesthetic that feels timeless rather than trend-based. Its natural markings and gradual aging process add depth and character, making each piece feel more unique over time. Leather works particularly well in modern, rustic, or formal spaces where clean lines and material quality are the focal point.

Durability and Longevity

Durability varies widely within both upholstery categories. Performance fabrics and tightly woven synthetics are designed to resist wear, staining, and fading, making them practical for homes with children or pets. Natural fabrics may show wear sooner but are often chosen for their softness and visual appeal.

If you’re interested in seeing which Fabric is Most Durable, take a look at this article.

Leather is naturally strong and resistant to tearing, punctures, and everyday spills. It does not trap pet hair, dust, or allergens, which makes it a popular option for allergy-sensitive households. That said, selecting the right leather type and finish is important, as some leathers are more susceptible to scratches than others.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Fabric upholstery typically requires more routine maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Regular vacuuming helps prevent dust buildup, and spills should be addressed quickly to avoid staining. Performance fabrics, such as La-Z-Boy’s iClean™ technology, significantly reduce maintenance by repelling liquids and making cleanup easier.

Leather is generally easier to maintain day to day. Most spills can be wiped away with a damp cloth, making it a practical choice for busy households. Certain leather types benefit from occasional conditioning to maintain flexibility and prevent drying, but overall upkeep is minimal compared to fabric.

To learn more about Furniture Care Tips, take a look at the article.

Cost Differences Between Fabric and Leather

Fabric furniture usually has a lower starting price, making it appealing for budget-conscious shoppers. However, premium designer fabrics, performance materials, or custom upholstery can significantly raise the overall cost.

Leather furniture often requires a higher upfront investment, especially for top-grain or full-grain leather. While the initial cost is higher, leather’s durability and longer lifespan can make it a cost-effective choice over time. When comparing prices, it’s important to factor in longevity, maintenance costs, and how frequently the furniture will be used.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability depends heavily on sourcing and manufacturing rather than material type alone. Some fabrics are made from recycled materials or organic fibres, while others rely on synthetic processes that are less environmentally friendly.

Leather is a natural by-product of the meat industry, which helps reduce waste when sourced responsibly. However, tanning methods vary, and vegetable-tanned leathers are generally considered more environmentally conscious than chemically tanned alternatives.

As Mary Lee notes, “Sustainability isn’t just about the material you choose. It’s also about how the furniture is made and how long it lasts in your home.”

Can You Mix Fabric and Leather Furniture?

Yes, and mixing the two is often encouraged by designers. Combining fabric and leather adds contrast, visual interest, and balance to a space while allowing homeowners to enjoy the benefits of both materials.

For example, a leather sofa paired with fabric accent chairs creates structure and softness in the same room. A fabric sectional can be complemented by a leather ottoman or accent chair for added texture. Keeping colours, finishes, or accessories consistent helps the space feel cohesive rather than mismatched.

Thoughtful mixing allows homeowners to design a room that feels layered, intentional, and tailored to their lifestyle.

To learn more if you can Mix and Match Fabric and Leather Furniture, take a look at our article.

What’s Next?

The information you’ve learned in this article will help you figure out which upholstery is the best fit for you. With this newfound information, what is holding you back from getting new furniture? Time to start shopping!

Visit us at one of our local Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston showrooms or plan by scheduling a visit. One of our sales consultants will be happy to help you get fitted for a recliner of your choice.

If you’re interested in learning more about La-Z-Boy’s fabric or leather selection, take a look at our Fabric Upholstery Guide or our Leather Covers Guide.

Related Links

Cost to Reupholster a Chair

Problems with Leather Furniture

Scotchgard vs. iClean Fabrics