Buying a leather sofa should feel luxurious, not confusing. But once you dive into the world of leather types (full grain? top grain? aniline? semi-aniline?), it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right leather for your space, your lifestyle, and your comfort zone.
You love character and comfort: Pick Full Aniline Leather
This is the most natural-looking leather available, made using the highest quality hides and dyed through without any surface coating. It’s incredibly soft, breathable, and develops a beautiful patina over time. But with great beauty comes great responsibility. Full aniline leather is more sensitive to spills, sunlight, and scratches, so it’s best suited for low-traffic homes or leather lovers who appreciate the charm of aging gracefully.
You are clumsy sometimes: Pick Aniline Plus Leather
Aniline Plus (sometimes called Semi-Aniline) is a happy middle ground. It starts with premium hides that are dyed through like full aniline, but with a light protective finish on top. This helps guard against stains while keeping the natural grain visible and the feel soft to the touch.
It’s ideal for those who love the look of natural leather but need it to be a little more forgiving for everyday life.
You have kids, pets or are working with a budget: Pick Protected Leather
Also known as pigmented leather, protected leather is treated with a layer of color and finish that makes it incredibly durable, consistent in appearance, and easy to clean. It resists stains, scratches, and fading, which means it’s perfect for families or anyone who wants fuss-free living without compromising on quality.
At Domicil, we use only top grain leather(never split leather), so you can rest assured you’re getting strength, beauty, and long-lasting comfort no matter the level of protection you choose.
The Truth About Leather “Imperfections”
High-quality leather isn’t just durable — it’s alive with natural character. Subtle vein marks, grain variations, stretch marks, and wrinkles are part of the story of the hide, not defects. You might notice:
- Vein and neck lines
- Scar or scratch marks
- Colour variations
- Horn butts or insect bite marks
- Soft belly areas that stretch more easily
- Grub marks or grain inconsistencies
These marks aren’t flaws — they’re proof that your leather is authentic, and no two pieces will ever look exactly alike. At Domicil, we honour these natural details as part of what makes each sofa unique.
The best leather is the one that suits your life, not just your Pinterest board. Whether you’re after plush luxury or family-proof practicality, Domicil offers over 200 leather options in custom colours and finishes. Come feel the difference in person.
