What fabric should I choose for my husband recliner?

Hello Aileen,

I would suggest avoid any of the faux pleathers. There is many discussions about it cracking and peeling and how to fix it here. My sons couch began cracked peeling at a wear spot , tried to refurbish it —- that didnt last and ended up buying a microfiber slipcover.

Faux is usually plastic or vinyl. It can look very convincing and it's easy to maintain but hubby may feel sweaty next to the surface. You may have to leave a throw blanket nearby for comfortable relaxing.

Bonded leather will peel. It's very thin leather glued to a substrate for additional strength but the leather tends to split and shred anyway.

Microfiber can be very "suede" like. It's durable and comfortable. (But personally....it makes me itch due to allergies)

Then there's fabulous leather. It comes in different thicknesses so durability varies accordingly. With proper care it can last for generations. Oils from head and body directly contacting the leather will cause staining and can be difficult to treat.

I've lived with all these materials at some point in the last 30 years and dealt with all the problems I listed. I currently live with the microfiber suede ( with throw blankets to lean back on).

Have you considered traditional upholstery with slipcovers for easy cleaning?

I agree with the above comment. We made the mistake of purchasing faux leather and it lasted about 3 years before cracking and peeling. I also had a microfiber and it held up well but I gave up trying to keep it clean on the arms. Finally I purchased leather recliners and have not regretted the decision at all. Even bought one for my mother in law who is in assisted living. Bargain Hunt had them for $199 made by Lane. Very good quality.

I have always gone with leather.

I had a leather couch for ten years, and it still looked good when I sold it. I only got rid of it because I redecorated.

I have bought leather again.

You do need to clean leather arms but these are easier to clean than upholstered. Faux leather does crack. Make sure you get real leather not coated.

Much furniture sold today as 'leather' is bonded leather, not solid or genuine leather. Bonded leather is a mixture of bits of leather and vinyl that have been heat-bonded on to a vinyl backing. It cracks, peels, splits and disintegrates easily, and can't be repaired. Although more durable, genuine leather is pricey though, and leather seats can sometimes be noisy when sitting down or sliding off.