Leather vs Fabric Rise & Recline Chairs: Which to Choose?

Fabric vs leather recliner chairs - pros and cons

The majority of rise and recline chairs are available in either fabric or leather finishes, offering customers the flexibility to choose a style and material that best suits their comfort, lifestyle, and home decor. Each option comes with its own set of benefits and potential drawbacks, which can influence the overall experience and longevity of the chair. Let’s explore this in greater detail.

The pros of leather recliner chairs

• Easy to wipe clean, so it can endure spills and messes
• Known for durability - leather recliners are built to last for many years
• Forms its own pattern over time, adding charm and character
• Offers a sleek, high-end look, elevating any living space
• Works well in both modern and classic interiors

 The cons of leather recliner chairs

• Typically more pricey than other alternatives, like fabric
• Might feel cold in winter and warm (or ‘sticky’) in summer
• May be more susceptible to wear through light scratches
• Requires conditioning in order to stay soft and supple
• Fewer colour and pattern options when compared with fabric

The pros of fabric recliner chairs

• Comfortable and cosy, great for relaxing and unwinding
• Generally more budget-friendly than leather
• A great hard-wearing option for homes with grandchildren or pets
• Softer and warmer to the touch
• Available in a wider variety of colours, patterns and textures

The cons of fabric recliner chairs

• Can stain if not treated or maintained correctly
• May absorb odours over time, e.g. from pets, cooking, or smoke
• Requires regular cleaning to stay free from dust, hair and debris
• Might show signs of fading if exposed to direct sunlight over time
• Not as hypoallergenic as leather, meaning it can gather allergens such as dust mites or mould spores

How to choose the right chair for you

Finding the perfect rise and recline chair involves more than just picking a style, it’s about comfort, durability, and how well it suits your daily needs. From material choices to long-term care, let’s weigh the pros and cons of fabric vs leather recliner chairs so you can make an informed decision.

Fabric vs leather recliner chairs - cost comparison

When comparing the prices of a rise and recline chair, it’s important to consider not just the initial outlay, but also value over time. While fabric recliner chairs are generally more affordable upfront, leather options are often seen as a longer-term investment due to their durability.

Oak Tree Mobility offers a wide range of bespoke rise and recline chairs, and pricing depends on a variety of factors, including chair size, style, features, and material choice. That’s why we provide custom quotes, based on your specific needs, rather than fixed prices. You can learn more about our pricing here.

Which is more comfortable, fabric or leather?

When it comes to comfort, both fabric and leather rise and recline chairs offer unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. Fabric recliners are often softer, warmer, and more breathable, making them ideal for relaxing over long periods, especially in cooler climes. Leather recliners, on the other hand, provide a smooth, supportive feel that moulds to your body over time, helping leather chairs to become easier to get in and out of, which is particularly helpful for those with mobility concerns.

Durability and longevity

Both fabric and leather rise and recline chairs are built to last, but they age in different ways. Leather is naturally hard-wearing and, with proper care, can last for many years. Fabric recliners, especially those made with high-quality durable materials, offer excellent longevity, with many modern weaves designed to resist wear and fading. 

Whichever you choose, a made-to-measure recliner from Oak Tree Mobility is built with durability in mind, offering dependable comfort for years to come.

Upkeep, care and cleaning

Leather options are easier to wipe clean, but do require the occasional conditioning treatment to keep the material soft and prevent cracks from developing. Meanwhile, fabric recliner chairs require a little more care, including regular vacuuming. You also need to act fast in the event of spills or water damage to fabric chairs. 

We’ve put together a handy care guide which explores the best ways to keep your rise and recline chair clean and looking its best.

A style that suits you

Whether you’re after something traditional and timeless or modern and minimalist, both fabric and leather recliner chairs come in a variety of styles to match your home. Fabric offers more flexibility when it comes to colour, texture, and pattern, making it easy to coordinate with your décor or add a pop of personality. Leather, on the other hand, brings a sleek, sophisticated look that suits both classic and contemporary spaces.

Considering allergies and pets

If you suffer from allergies or have pets in the home, your choice of recliner material can make a big difference. Leather is naturally hypoallergenic; it doesn’t trap dust, pet “dander” (tiny skin cells dropped by pets) or pollen. Of course, regular cleaning can keep fabric in great shape. It might just require a little more upkeep than leather.

Many of today’s fabrics are specifically designed to be pet-friendly and easy to maintain, giving you the freedom to choose based on what works best for your lifestyle.

Temperature considerations

How your recliner feels throughout the year can affect your level of comfort. Leather can feel cool to the touch in winter and may become ‘sticky’ during hot summer days, particularly in rooms that aren’t well ventilated. Fabric, meanwhile, tends to maintain a more neutral temperature. It’s warmer in colder months and more breathable in summer, making it comfortable year-round. 

The right choice will depend on your preferences and where the chair is placed in your home, but both materials can offer excellent comfort when chosen to match your environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leather vs Fabric Chairs

Which recliner is better, fabric or leather?

It really comes down to your personal preferences. Fabric recliners offer a softer, cosier feel and tend to stay comfortable in all seasons, while leather provides a smooth, supportive seat with the added benefit of being quick to clean.

What material is best for a recliner?

The best material is the one that fits your needs. Leather is great for durability and low maintenance. Fabric offers more variety and a cosy feel. At Oak Tree, we offer both in a wide range of colours and finishes.

What lasts longer, fabric or leather recliners?

Leather generally lasts longer with proper care. It’s naturally tough and can age beautifully over time. High-quality fabrics can also be very durable, especially when treated to resist stains and wear.

How to tell if a recliner is real leather?

Real leather has a natural grain, a subtle scent, and flexibility. It won’t look perfectly uniform like faux leather. Oak Tree Mobility has over 25 different genuine Italian leather options, so you can be sure of the quality.

Do leather recliners get too hot?

Leather can certainly feel warmer in the summer, but in an airy room it’s usually very comfortable. Many people enjoy how quickly leather adjusts to their body temperature.

Do fabric recliner chairs sag over time?

Like all furniture, fabric recliners may soften with use, but a well-built rise and recline chair with quality materials is designed to hold its shape and support for many years.

Find your perfect recliner

If you’re ready to find the perfect rise and recline chair for you and your needs, get in touch with us today, we’d love to help. Arrange your free home appointment with one of our experts, or alternatively, call us on 0800 999 2781 to find out more about our chairs.