When it comes to living room furniture for families, the main things to think about are both comfort and durability. As it's somewhere we tend to spend a lot of time, it's really important to feel relaxed. Equally, furniture like sofas need to be long lasting, easy to clean and maybe even strong enough to stand up to pet scratches and unruly toddlers.
As part of the Fenetic Wellbeing #GoFaux campaign, I'm going to be talking about the pros and cons of fabric vs Faux Leather when looking at style, interior design and durability, to suit the whole family. I thought this would be a great thing to discuss as it's not often that we invest in big furniture, so it's a good idea to consider all the different options and advantages before doing so.
Faux Leather
Faux leather comes in many forms, with the two main types being PVC and any materials such as polyurethane and polyamide microfibre. Generally, the poly materials are more breathable, more eco friendly and simpler to look after. PVC tends to not breathe as well and can be tricky to clean, so if you are going for this option, make sure you know what type of faux leather you're looking to buy before you start shopping.
Faux Leather is a serious contender when it comes to practical family furniture. Real leather can be hugely expensive and although it does stand the test of time, it's not always an option to fork out for the real thing. Here's a few great points about faux leather, making it the perfect choice for family furniture;
- It's cheaper than the real thing
- It's animal friendly
- Many styles, patterns and colours available
- Lasts well
- Easily cleaned
- No cracking or maintenance needed
- Realistic looking
- Less financial loss if you replace/change colour scheme
- Fade resistant
Faux leather is the perfect choice when it comes to family furniture such as sofas and recliners. Being able to clean up spillages quickly, to simply freshen with a cloth whilst still looking stylish make it a great option.
The only downsides really to going faux is that it can feel a bit cooler and possibly less comfortable than fabric options, but this is easily rectified with varying textures, blankets and cushions where needed.
Not having such a large initial outlay is a huge bonus for families and it means that you can feel more relaxed, slightly less precious and replace more regularly if needed to suit your ever changing needs and tastes.
The only downsides really to going faux is that it can feel a bit cooler and possibly less comfortable than fabric options, but this is easily rectified with varying textures, blankets and cushions where needed.
Not having such a large initial outlay is a huge bonus for families and it means that you can feel more relaxed, slightly less precious and replace more regularly if needed to suit your ever changing needs and tastes.
Fabrics
Fabric sofas and chairs aren't without their plus points too. When it comes to comparing the two options, the main difference would be the look and feel of the furniture, but it all comes down to personal taste and preference. Here's a few plus points to fabric sofas in the family living room;
- Fabric is warmer to touch
- Limitless design opportunities
- Options for all budgets
- Can be coated for protection if not included
- More comfortable
- Softer look
- Withstand pet claws better
There are several downsides to choosing a fabric sofa though, such as them being hard to clean. You tend to need to spend more to have a more robust model and they really aren't very resistant to children and stains unless they are protected well.
With all things considered, I think the option of faux leather does make the most sense in a family setting. Being easily to clean, affordable and stylish make it ideal for growing families. Personally though, I do prefer a fabric option. I like the softer warmer feel and although stains and spillages can be an utter nightmare on fabrics, for me the style and comfort outweighs the practicality on this one and pet claw marks are a lot easier to manage. With that in mind, two kids a dog and three cats - fabric gets my vote on this one.
With all things considered, I think the option of faux leather does make the most sense in a family setting. Being easily to clean, affordable and stylish make it ideal for growing families. Personally though, I do prefer a fabric option. I like the softer warmer feel and although stains and spillages can be an utter nightmare on fabrics, for me the style and comfort outweighs the practicality on this one and pet claw marks are a lot easier to manage. With that in mind, two kids a dog and three cats - fabric gets my vote on this one.