Cloth vs. Leather Upholstery: Which One is Better?

If you own a car, sooner or later you’ll want to decide whether you prefer a cloth or a leather seat upholstery. Some vehicles are equipped with a standard cloth seating but with the option of upgrading to a leather upholstery. You can choose which suits your preference best.

There are many differences between both types of seating material. Each has their own pros and cons. Here are some factors to consider before deciding which one you think will fit your lifestyle.

1. Cost

If you are considering the cost of these two items, leather is definitely more expensive. However, it also depends on the type of leather material you prefer to use. You can choose between faux, top grain or nappa among many other. If you are working on a budget, a cloth upholstery is much cheaper and practical.

2. Temperature

Another consideration is the temperature or weather condition of the city you live in. If you reside in a hot and sunny climate, a leather seating will make you sweat. If its summer season, you can expect the seats to burn your bum. Leather absorbs heat especially if it’s in black color.

On the other hand, if the weather is cold, the leather material adapts to the cool temperature. Therefore your legs may get numb from the coldness of the fabric. A cloth seating is more appropriate since it doesn’t stick to your skin when it’s hot and it’s more comfortable to sit in during cold days.

3. Absorption

In case you spill a water or any other type of liquid on your car seat, a leather cover can be easily wiped off. It is easier to clean because it doesn’t absorb the liquid as easily as cloth. Just make sure you dab the affected area immediately with a clean towel to eliminate the residue and avoid staining your leather.

Now, if you spill on a cloth fabric, it will soak up the liquid immediately. A cloth absorbs like a sponge. Plus, there are certain stains that are hard to remove.

4. Maintenance

A cloth upholstery requires vacuuming or steam cleaning. Leather, on the other hand, needs more attention and maintenance. Although it is more resistant to stains, the leather requires more TLC.

You need to condition and protect the surface in order to avoid drying the leather. Use the KevianClean Leather Cleaner and Conditioner to protect your seats from liquid stains.

Ultimately, the final decision will still be based on your preference. A leather upholstery is more elegant and beautiful. However, if you want a low-budget and low maintenance upholstery, a cloth fabric may be more appropriate for your vehicle.