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You all can attest to that leather isn't cheap and when you're paying top dollar for luxury pieces like bar stools, lounge chairs or couches, you want to make sure you enjoy them for years to come. The good news is, that with proper care and maintenance, genuine leather furniture can provide comfort and style for decades. However, there are a few factors that determine how long your leather goods will last and keep looking their best. Keep reading to find out what you can expect from your genuine leather luxury bar stools and some tips to help extend its lifespan.
What Is Genuine Leather?
Genuine leather refers to hides that come directly from animals, typically cattle, that have been tanned to become supple and durable. Unlike synthetic materials, a genuine leather accent lounge chair lasts a lifetime and beyond with proper care and maintenance.
What Determines how Long Genuine Leather will Last?
Several factors affect the longevity of genuine leather:
- Quality and thickness: Higher quality leather that is thicker will typically last longer. Full-grain leather, the highest quality, can last 30-50 years or more. Lower-quality leather may only last 5-10 years.
- Type of tanning: Vegetable-tanned or semi-aniline leather tends to be the most durable. Chrome tanning, while making leather softer, can decrease lifespan.
- Usage and care: How you use and care for the leather impacts its durability. Leather in high-traffic or high-wear areas may need conditioning more often. Proper cleaning and conditioning every 6-12 months is key.
- Storage: When not in use, leather should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. High heat and UV exposure can cause leather to dry out and crack prematurely.
Factors That Impact the Durability of Genuine Leather
Genuine leather luxury bar stools can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. How well it holds up over the years comes down to a few key factors:
- Quality and thickness
The higher the quality and thicker the leather, the more durable it will be. Full-grain leather is the highest quality and most durable. Top-grain and genuine leather are a bit thinner but can still last 15-30 years with care. Faux or bonded leather won't last nearly as long, maybe 5 years at best.
- Conditioning
Keeping leather conditioned is key. The leather conditioner nourishes the fibres to prevent cracking while still allowing the leather to breathe. Apply conditioner at least once a month, or as often as once a week for high-traffic areas.
- Location and use
Where the leather is located and how it's used impacts longevity. Leather in high-traffic or high-exposure areas like armrests will wear out faster than seat cushions. And leather that's heavily used, sat on or handled frequently will age quicker than leather in a guest room.
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Caring for Your Genuine Leather Furniture Properly
To keep your genuine leather accent lounge chair looking its best for years to come, proper care and maintenance are key.
- Clean Regularly
Wipe down your leather furniture at least once a month with a damp, soft cloth to remove dust and grime. For stubborn stains, make a DIY leather cleaner of equal parts water and white vinegar or isopropyl alcohol. Apply with a cloth and wipe away. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners or too much water which can damage the leather.
- Condition Quarterly
Every 3-4 months, apply a high-quality leather conditioner or oil with natural ingredients like beeswax and jojoba oil. Gently rub it into the leather with a soft cloth, paying extra attention to areas that get the most wear like seat cushions and armrests. Conditioning will moisturize the leather and keep it supple and soft.
- Protect from Sun Damage
Too much sun exposure can cause the leather to fade, dry out and crack over time. When possible, avoid placing leather furniture in direct sunlight or by windows. If that's not possible, invest in UV-protective window treatments. You should also apply a leather UV protectant spray, especially to areas that get the most sun. Reapply as directed to maintain protection.
Related: Genuine Leather Materials
In Conclusion
Genuine leather has a remarkable lifespan when treated with care. With dedicated maintenance, a premium leather item can truly become a lifelong asset. Leather, cherished for centuries for its exquisite appearance, resilience, and the way it acquires a captivating patina, ensures that your investment in leather furniture or any other leather product will endure the trials of time.