You’ve probably heard the terms fully-aniline, semi-aniline, protected, corrected, etc. when describing leather but what do they all mean? Fully-aniline and semi-aniline both describe the way a leather hide is dyed. The technical definition of aniline is an organic compound otherwise known as phenylamine or aminobenzene which is a chemical used when tanning a hide in order to make is softer. Aniline is a transparent dye which colors but doesn’t completely coat the hide. So when leather is described as fully-aniline it means that no pigment is applied but only aniline. Semi-aniline refers to a hide that is partially dyed with an aniline dye and partially with another type of a dye such as pigment so that the natural characteristics of the hide show through while at the same time offering color consistency as well as durability. Pigmented or protected leathers are pigmented and offer much better durability than fully-aniline or semi-aniline leather. The pigment is a protective, opaque color which coats the grain very constituently. The protected leathers also hide the natural blemishes of the hide. They have the highest resistance to wear, fading from light, and soiling.
Fully-aniline leathers in the traditional browns, for example, hold a limited appeal for the 20-something crowd. Of course, traditional browns and earth tones still reign in many homes and appear more formal on leather furnishings but when it comes to contemporary leather, colors can be shown off with a flair that sparks ideas for an updated approach to home theater seating decor. Protected leathers offer a larger color palette and differentiation is the name of the game today. How can you make your home theater seating feel and look different than in all other homes? You can separate yourself by choosing a leather color that is truly devoted to your individual style.
If you have kids and/or pets and you’re worried abut everyday spills, dirt, and the little ones who will put their feet on home theater seating unit, then protected leather is ideal for you. Popcorn and carbonated beverages go hand in hand with theater seating. Leather, as opposed to many fabrics, is a porous material and protected leather features surface pigments which easily repels liquids and stains. You will not longer have to panic that someone will spill spaghetti sauce or red wine on it. Although leather upholstery is much more durable than many other upholstery types, one should take care of it by wiping it down if there are any spills or stains. Leather seating should also see a conditioner once or twice a year that is specifically formulated for leather upholstery.
So when you decide to choose your upholstery for your favorite home theater seating, choose protected leather which will add years of life to your favorite seat in the house.
