Differences in Furniture Materials and Fabrics:
Leather
Pros: Leather is extremely durable, it will out last other upholstery by four times under normal use conditions. It’s easy to care for, easy to clean, smells great, looks great, and is one of a kind since all leathers have their own personalities. Leather also comes in a variety of colors and textures. Great for families with allergies.
Cons: The price, good leather isn’t always cheap. And you are limited on design features as it comes in solid colors only. no patterns. Leather can be easily scuffed and difficult to repair DIY. Other complaints are due to the temperature variance. It can be cold or hot depending on the situation, it all comes down to personal preference.
Durablend Leather
Description - Durablend™ upholstery offers the rich look and feel of leather using a polyurethane/leather blend to create a comfortable and economical alternative to natural leather. Fabric Contents: 57% polyurethane, 26% poly/cotton, 17% leather.
Pros: A lot of the same benefits as natural leather, with out the price.
Cons: Not 100 percent leather.
Microfiber
Description - Microfiber or microfibre refers to synthetic fibers (fiber) that measure less than one denier. The most common types of microfibers are made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g., nylon, kevlar, nomex, trogamide), and or a conjugation of polyester and polyamide. Microfiber is used to make non-woven, woven and knitted textiles. The shape, size and combinations of synthetic fibers are selected for specific characteristics, including: softness, durability, absorption, wicking abilities, water repellency, electrodynamics, and filtering capabilities. Microfiber is commonly used for apparel, upholstery, industrial filters and cleaning products.
Pros: Style, wear resilience, resists stains, ease of maintenance.
Cons: The one major disadvantage to microfiber, especially compared with leather, is the lack of heat resistance. When it is placed in direct sunlight or if a flame touches the fabric, microfiber tends to warp and show damage
Fabric
Pros: Affordable price. Many fabrics used on furniture are quite durable, though it will not last like leather. But one of our favorite things about a traditional fabric sofa, are the wide variety and great availability of colors and prints, you can really choose something that suits your personality and says something about who you are. Many people also find a regular fabric more comfortable to sit or lie
Cons: harder to clean, if you don't get to spills right away they may stain or need special treatment. You can protect fabrics today, or many already come with a stain guard, but you still have to act fast if an accident occurs.