Leather 101

Couch-tastrophes: The Truth Behind Leather Cracking and Peeling

Unveil the truth about leather cracking on Couch.com. Navigate through the causes and solutions for lasting comfort
Alex Back | Couch.com CEO & Founder
cracking and peeling leather couch with deep cracks

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    How Do You Keep Leather Furniture from Cracking?

    We're diving headfirst into this leather dilemma to uncover the truth behind these couch-tastrophes and, more importantly, how to prevent and fix them. Stopping leather from cracking requires a little TLC. Here's how you can keep your leather in top shape:

    • Condition regularly: Leather, just like your skin, needs hydration. Brands like Lexol and Leather Honey offer fantastic leather conditioners that keep your furniture supple and moisturized.
    • Avoid sunlight: UV rays are the enemy of leather. Position your furniture away from direct sunlight or use window coverings to shield it.
    • Humidity control: Extreme dryness can lead to cracking. Consider using a humidifier in drier climates to maintain the right level of moisture.

    Does Leather Couch Peel?

    Yes, unfortunately, it can. Some leather couches, especially those of lesser quality or poor maintenance, are susceptible to peeling. However, not all leather couches peel, and with proper care, you can enjoy your investment for years.

    Why Is My Real Leather Couch Peeling?

    Real leather couches might peel due to various factors:

    • Poor quality: Low-quality leather can peel prematurely. Investing in reputable brands like Hancock & Moore ensures you're getting durable leather that's less prone to peeling.
    • Lack of Maintenance: Even on high-end leather sofas, failure to clean and condition regularly can dry out leather, causing it to crack and peel.

    Why Is My Expensive Leather Couch Peeling?

    Even expensive leather couches aren't immune to peeling. However, reputable brands often use higher-quality leather that's less prone to this issue. Still, it's very important to take the precautionary steps necessary to care for your leather couch! Keep it clean and keep it conditioned.

    How Do You Fix Fake Peeling Leather?

    Faux leather can also peel, but you have some options:

    • Remove the peeling area: Carefully cut away the peeling section with a sharp blade. It's not the ideal solution but it may be the only solution.
    • Apply filler: Use a leather filler to smooth the edges of the peeled area. Watch some YouTube videos on how to do this!
    • Color matching: Blend the color using dyes and finishers to match the rest of the faux leather. Another great opportunity to spend a little time on the YouTube.

    What Does It Mean When Leather Is Peeling?

    Peeling leather indicates that the top layer, often called the finish or color coat, is coming off. This can be due to various reasons, including wear, poor quality, or insufficient maintenance. It can happen to even the most expensive and luxurious leather sofas too!

    How Do I Stop Leather from Cracking?

    Preventing leather cracking involves a few key steps:

    • Regular conditioning: Apply a high-quality leather conditioner to keep the leather hydrated and supple.
    • Avoid harsh chemicals: Use only recommended leather care products. Harsh chemicals can strip away natural oils.

    What Kind of Leather Couch Doesn't Peel?

    Genuine leather, especially when it's of higher quality, doesn't inherently peel like faux or bonded leather. Brands like Chesterfield and Natuzzi are known for crafting real leather couches that age gracefully without peeling.

    Cracking the Code of Leather Care

    In the quest to keep your leather couch looking its best, remember that quality and care go hand in hand. Investing in reputable brands, such as Eames or Roche Bobois, and following a proper maintenance routine can ensure your leather furniture ages like a fine wine. So, bid adieu to couch-tastrophes and say hello to a lifetime of leather luxury!

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    Alex Back
    Couch.com CEO & Founder
    Alex Back is the founder and CEO of Couch.com. Previously, he was the co-founder and COO of the popular furniture brand, Apt2B, which was acquired by a large US retail furniture chain in 2018. He worked to integrate Apt2B, one of the very first online furniture retailers on the Shopify platform, into the operations of the 100 year old larger business entity and was deeply immersed in the business operations of both online and brick and mortar retail for 4 years before leaving in 2023 to start Couch.com. Working in various parts of the furniture industry since 2004, he has 20 years experience in retail sales, e-commerce, marketing, operations, logistics and wholesale manufacturing and distribution. He has worked extensively with partners such as Costco, Bed Bath and Beyond and Amazon and his work has been highlighted in many publications such as Forbes, CNN and HGTV, among others. Alex is delighted to bring his experience and authority on couches and the furniture industry to this platform, along with many of his industry colleagues who are helping him keep the Couch.com audience informed and engaged on a daily basis.
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