Genuine vs. Bonded Leather

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What is the difference between genuine leather and bonded leather?

Bonded leather (sometimes called reconstituted leather or just plain vinyl) is not the whole skin of an animal, but leftover pieces of hide blended together to form a seamless piece of leather material.

Genuine leather is made from entire pieces of animal hide and costs much more than items made with the bonded material. It’s hard to tell the difference between the two, as the appearance and smell are nearly identical. However, genuine leather typically feels a bit harder to the touch, and if used for sofas, its cushions tend to have less give than a bonded leather cushion.

Manufacturers will use many types of coats and permanent polishes to make bonded leather appear to be the real deal.

Bonded leather can actually be quite useful: it gives books a fancier appearance, it makes cheap belts look expensive, and it adds a sophisticated touch to any piece of office furniture. It also appeals to the environmentally-conscious, since it is often made from recycled materials. Plenty of consumers are attracted to the lower cost of a bonded leather sofa and they’re not scared away because bonded leather is in fact made from small pieces of real leather.

The true difference between genuine and bonded leather is its durability. Genuine leather lasts longer and is able to be repaired much more easily. If bonded leather is torn, it cannot simply be fixed, the entire piece must be reupholstered.