Choosing the right material for upholstery can be tricky, whether you're redoing your furniture or upgrading your car’s interior. The durability, look, and feel of your upholstery depend on the material you pick.

Leather and fabric are two of the most popular choices, but which one is best for your needs? Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these differences is key to making the right decision.

In this blog, we’ll break down the different types of leather, compare them to fabrics, and help you decide which material will stand the test of time. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what will work best for your home or vehicle upholstery.



What is Upholstery?

Upholstery is the process of adding padding, springs, webbing, and fabric or leather covers to furniture or vehicle interiors. It’s what makes your couch comfortable and your car seats durable. When people refer to upholstery, they usually mean the outer covering material—whether it's fabric, leather, or a synthetic option—along with the padding underneath that provides comfort and support.

Basic Definition of Terms for Upholstery

• Fabric: Generally, fabric refers to any woven material, such as cotton or polyester. However, in the world of upholstery, fabric specifically refers to the textiles used to cover furniture or vehicle interiors. These fabrics are selected based on durability, feel, and appearance.
• Leather: Unlike fabric, leather is made from processed animal hides. Leather upholstery is highly valued for its luxurious look, soft texture, and long-lasting durability.
• Padding: The soft material beneath the fabric or leather that adds comfort to seating.
• Webbing and Springs: These are the support systems underneath the padding that provide structure to seats and cushions, ensuring they hold their shape and comfort over time.

Understanding these terms helps lay the foundation for choosing the right upholstery materials. Each material—whether fabric or leather—has specific characteristics that make it suitable for different uses. We'll dive into these details in the following sections to help you make an informed decision for your home or vehicle.

What is the Difference Between Upholstery Fabric and Leather?

When it comes to upholstery, fabric and leather are two distinct materials with different characteristics. Understanding the differences between them is key to making the right choice for your furniture or car interior.

Fabric upholstery is made from woven fibers, which can include natural materials like cotton and linen, or synthetic options like polyester and microfiber. Fabric is often chosen for its variety of patterns, colors, and textures. It’s generally softer and more comfortable than leather, making it a popular choice for home furniture. However, fabric can be more prone to stains and wear over time, depending on the quality and type of fibers used.

Leather, on the other hand, is made from processed animal hides. It offers a sleek, high-end look and is known for its durability. Leather upholstery is more resistant to stains and easier to clean than fabric, which makes it a good option for areas with heavy use, like car seats or living rooms. Leather is also less likely to absorb spills and odors, which can be a big advantage for households with pets or children.



In summary, fabric provides comfort and design flexibility, while leather stands out for its durability and easy maintenance. The best choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

Which Leather is Best for Upholstery?

When choosing leather for upholstery, not all types are created equal. There are several types of leather available, each with its own level of quality, durability, and price point. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of leather used in upholstery:

Full-Grain Leather

This is the highest quality leather available. Full-grain leather is made from the top layer of the hide and retains all of its natural grain. It’s tough, durable, and develops a beautiful patina over time. However, it’s also the most expensive option. Full-grain leather is ideal for luxury furniture and high-end car interiors where longevity and appearance are top priorities.

Top-Grain Leather

Slightly lower in quality than full-grain, top-grain leather is still a high-quality option. It’s sanded down to remove imperfections, giving it a smoother finish. Top-grain leather is durable and easier to work with than full-grain leather, making it a popular choice for most furniture and car upholstery. It offers a balance between quality and affordability.

Bonded Leather

This is a lower-cost alternative to full-grain and top-grain leather. Bonded leather is made from leftover scraps of leather that are bonded together with adhesives. While it looks like real leather on the surface, it’s not as durable and doesn’t age as well. Bonded leather is best for budget-conscious buyers who still want the look of leather without the high price tag.

Faux Leather

Though not real leather, faux leather is a synthetic option that mimics the look of genuine leather. It’s more affordable, easy to clean, and often more resistant to wear and tear. However, it doesn’t have the same feel or aging characteristics as real leather.

In conclusion, full-grain leather is the best option if you’re looking for premium quality and long-term durability. Top-grain leather offers a more affordable but still high-quality alternative, while bonded leather and faux leather provide budget-friendly options that come with some trade-offs in durability and appearance.

Which Type of Upholstery is Most Durable?

When it comes to durability, the material you choose for upholstery matters. While leather is often seen as the most durable option, other materials like microfiber, vinyl, and synthetic fabrics also offer excellent longevity and resistance to wear. Let’s compare these materials based on durability:

Leather

Leather, especially full-grain and top-grain, is known for its durability. It can withstand heavy use, resist stains, and is less likely to tear compared to fabric options. Leather also ages well, developing a patina over time that adds to its character. However, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in top condition.

Microfiber

This synthetic fabric is made from very fine fibers, giving it a soft feel and high durability. Microfiber is known for being stain-resistant and easy to clean, making it a great option for homes with kids or pets. It doesn’t age like leather but can last a long time with proper care.

Vinyl

Vinyl upholstery is another durable option, often used in areas with high traffic or exposure to moisture, like kitchens or outdoor furniture. It’s water-resistant, easy to clean, and more affordable than leather. However, it doesn’t offer the same comfort or luxurious feel as leather or microfiber.

Synthetic Fabrics

Fabrics like polyester or nylon blends are often used for upholstery due to their durability and resistance to wear. These materials can handle heavy use, and many are treated to resist stains and fading. Synthetic fabrics can be a good alternative to natural fabrics if durability is a priority.

Leather remains the top choice for durability, especially full-grain and top-grain leather, which can last for decades with proper care. Microfiber and synthetic fabrics offer strong alternatives, particularly for those seeking stain resistance and ease of maintenance. Vinyl is also a solid option for high-use areas but lacks the comfort of other materials. Your choice depends on how much wear and tear the upholstery will face and your priorities in terms of look and feel.

What is the Best Material to Reupholster a Car?

Reupholstering a car requires careful consideration of the material, as the interior of a vehicle experiences constant use and exposure to various elements. The best material for car upholstery will depend on factors like durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. Here are the most common materials used for reupholstering cars:

Leather

Leather is a premium choice for car interiors. It offers a luxurious look and feel, is highly durable, and is resistant to stains and odors. Leather also adds value to a vehicle, making it a popular option for high-end and luxury cars. However, it can be expensive and requires regular maintenance to prevent cracking and fading, especially in hot climates.

Vinyl

Vinyl is another popular material for car upholstery, known for its durability and affordability. It mimics the look of leather but is easier to clean and maintain. Vinyl is resistant to spills and stains, making it a practical choice for families or those who frequently use their vehicles. However, it doesn’t have the same premium feel as leather and can be less comfortable, particularly in extreme temperatures.

Cloth Fabrics

Cloth upholstery is a more budget-friendly option for reupholstering cars. Common materials include polyester and nylon blends, which are soft, comfortable, and breathable. Cloth fabrics don’t get as hot or cold as leather or vinyl, making them a comfortable choice in varying climates. However, they are more prone to stains, odors, and wear over time, which may require more frequent cleaning or replacement.

Microfiber

Microfiber is another fabric option that combines comfort with durability. It’s soft to the touch, resists stains, and is relatively easy to clean. Microfiber also offers good breathability, making it a comfortable choice for car interiors. However, like other fabrics, it may not last as long as leather or vinyl in high-traffic areas.

Leather remains the top choice for those seeking luxury and durability in car upholstery, though it requires maintenance. Vinyl is a strong alternative that offers durability and easy cleaning at a lower cost. For a more affordable and comfortable option, cloth fabrics and microfiber provide good alternatives, though they may need more upkeep over time. The right material for reupholstering your car will depend on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences for comfort and maintenance.

What Kind of Fabric is in My Car?

If you’re unsure about the type of fabric used in your car’s interior, identifying it can help with maintenance, cleaning, or future reupholstering decisions. Here’s a simple guide to help you figure out what kind of fabric is in your car:

Leather

Leather upholstery is usually easy to spot. It has a smooth, rich texture and often has a distinct, premium feel. It can come in various finishes, from glossy to matte. Leather will also feel cooler in colder weather and warmer in hot conditions. If your car seats have visible stitching and a slightly textured surface, they are likely leather.

Vinyl

Vinyl upholstery can resemble leather but feels more synthetic and less luxurious. It’s typically shinier than leather and has a slightly stiffer feel. You can often tell it’s vinyl if the material feels more plastic-like and has a uniform texture without the natural grain seen in leather. Vinyl also doesn’t crack or age like leather, making it easy to maintain its appearance over time.

Cloth Fabrics

Most cloth upholstery is made from polyester or nylon blends. These fabrics feel softer and warmer compared to leather or vinyl. Cloth upholstery can have a variety of textures, ranging from smooth to more rugged weaves. If your seats are comfortable, breathable, and don’t change temperature as dramatically as leather or vinyl, they are likely made from cloth fabrics.

Microfiber

Microfiber has a very soft, suede-like feel and is often used in higher-end fabric interiors. It’s known for being comfortable, durable, and resistant to stains. If your car seats have a smooth, velvety texture that is easy to clean, you’re probably dealing with microfiber upholstery.

If you're still unsure, check your car’s manual or contact the manufacturer. They can provide the exact material information based on your vehicle’s model and trim.

Identifying the fabric in your car can help you take better care of it. Leather stands out for its luxurious texture and feel, vinyl is easy to maintain and has a synthetic look, while cloth fabrics and microfiber offer comfort and breathability. Knowing the type of material can help guide your cleaning routine and any future reupholstering decisions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right upholstery material is essential for both comfort and durability, whether you're upgrading your home furniture or your car's interior. Leather offers luxury and long-lasting durability, while fabric provides softness and a range of design options. Your choice depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and how much maintenance you're willing to commit to.

If you're in the Everett, Marysville, Lake Stevens, Mt. Vernon, or surrounding areas and need professional upholstery services, look no further than Corbin Custom Upholstery LLC. Located in Marysville, WA, Corbin Custom Upholstery stands as a premier provider of specialized upholstery services, catering to a wide range of vehicles and recreational crafts.

Their team of skilled craftsmen is dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction, offering personalized solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you're looking to refurbish your boat, enhance your RV's comfort, or restore your classic car's interior, Corbin Custom Upholstery has you covered. They specialize in boat upholstery, car and truck upholstery, dirt bike seat customization, hot rod interiors, and motorcycle seat enhancement.