The Best Leather Sofas of 2023, Vetted by a Home Editor
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When we say “leather sofa,” your mind might jump to frat houses and bachelor pads. But this year, design trends are pointing toward warm, rustic interiors with a heritage feel (think: Aspen ski chalet meets French farmhouse). Everything is cozy yet timeless with an emphasis on comfort—and if the latest celebrity home tours have taught us anything, it’s that leather sofas are a staple of the look. We’re talking hand-worn, supple leather upholstery with cushions that basically beg you to sink in with a good book. It’s also worth mentioning that leather is known for its durability—and since we’re in the era of vintage-inspired-everything, now is definitely the time to invest in a Mario Bellini loveseat or Ligne Roset sectional (aka the sofas you’ve been seeing all over Instagram).
That said, finding a good leather sofa boils down to quality (more specifically, the quality of materials). So below, find a breakdown of how to choose one that doesn’t carry the aforementioned “frat vibe,” plus 10 swoon-worthy leather sofas that don’t sacrifice comfort.
The 18 Most Comfortable Sofas of 2023
The Best Leather Sofas at a Glance
How We Chose The Best Leather Sofas
Below, you’ll find an in-depth, expert guide to the best leather sofas—plus how to choose the right one for your lifestyle, as well as how to care for it so it’ll last a lifetime. With that in mind, we tapped our editors and sifted through thousands of reviews to make sure each sofa met the following criteria: a) that it is made with top-grain, full-grain or split leather, b) that it is cleanable at home and c) that it uses down, foam or foam-and-down cushions for comfort.
1. Article Sven Sofa
When we started our research for the best leather sofas, there was one that seemed to pop up everywhere we looked: Article’s Sven Sofa. Not only were people raving over its midcentury modern design, but they also couldn’t get enough of how comfortable it was. Presumably, this has to do with its foam-padded and fiber- and feather-filled cushions, which allow you to sink in with support, and the silky smooth feel of full-aniline leather (available in Charme Chocolat, Charme Tan, Oxford Black and Oxford Blue). The sofa includes two cushy bolster pillows, and the loose fabric-backed back cushions feature removable covers that make it easy to clean professionally (which is advised for more persistent stains).
Take it from Pam Masin, PureWow’s Director of Affiliate Strategy: “The Article Sven leather sofa has held up incredibly well over the last five years that I've owned it (and has survived three different moves!). I use it as the main seating in my living room and love the streamlined look of it while still being plenty comfy to lounge on while watching TV. The big selling point for me was the compact length paired with deep seats. It's hard to find a couch that's under 90 inches long that's not a loveseat. This one's 88 inches long, so it fits in my small apartment living room, but could still comfortably seat three people. When I moved into a house this year, I purchased the Sven ottoman to give my husband and me more space to sprawl out. The leather has been extremely durable and while it definitely scratches and stains, I find that they blend in with the ‘Charme Tan’ color leather. Plus, imperfections give the leather some character!”
2. AllModern Hailee Leather Sofa
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the Sven, this guy has a 4.7 out of 5-star rating with more than 1,600 reviews for being just that. “Really wanted to get the Article Sven couch, but it was out of my budget,” one reviewer writes. “Aesthetically, this [sofa] looks nearly the same.” That’s because it’s crafted with a tufted seat, tapered dowel legs, and 100-percent genuine leather, so it has a sleek silhouette with a similar, relaxed look. Beyond its visual appeal, however, it’s also built with firm foam cushions that offer ample support and welted seams that prevent the upholstery from loosening over time.
The solid wood frame and webbed suspension seating also offer maximum durability, ensuring it’ll last years to come. “We’ve had this sofa for a little over a month and a half and have two kids, two dogs, and two cats,” one reviewer writes. “This couch looks like it did the day we got it. The leather holds up to the abuse and the cushions are not losing their shape. Well worth the price. Plus, as a bonus, it’s perfect for our midcentury home,” Another adds, “I have owned this sofa for about two years [and] the condition hasn't changed at all from when it was first delivered—I've got two medium-sized dogs who regularly sleep and play on the sofa. It's easy to vacuum, super deep and comfy (I regularly fall asleep on it) and the burnt [caramel] color looks great.”
3. Ligne Roset x Michel Ducaroy Togo Sofa
You’ve seen this slouchy sofa all over Instagram (and it was popular wayyy before the days of social media, FWIW). This iconic piece is the “Togo,” created by French designer Michel Ducaroy in the ‘70s. He got the idea for the (now widely recognizable) shape after he examined his aluminum toothpaste tube one morning observing that it “folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” (per Architectural Digest). From there, he sketched the Togo; an ergonomic, crumpled cushy sofa that you could build modularly over time. Each piece features three densities of cushion with polyether foam in the frame, so it’s body-conforming and supportive all at the same time. It’s also customizable with over 100 fabrics—but we’re, of course, partial to the Kyoto Cattle Leather collection, which features a semi-aniline gloss finish on 100-percent full-grain bull hide (available in 13 colors). Note: Covers are non-removable (aka spot-clean only).
That said, the leather upholstered Togo (new) is only available in-store right now. But if you really want to make a statement, there are a few vintage numbers that are sure to give your space a retro touch.
4. Apt2b Jude Sectional Sofa
Crafted with genuine top-grain leather and a sturdy solid wood frame, this modern sectional stands elegantly on polished metal legs, which can be removed for a closer-to-the-ground feel. Beyond its contemporary design, it also has the support of high-density foam cushions on the seats, arms, and back—and the seat cushions are sewn in place, while the back cushions are zippered on and removable. The best part? The top-grain leather is fully protected and coated with aniline, so while it boasts a rich pigment, it’s also built for handling stains, spills, kids and pets. (This makes it the most durable option on our list).
One reviewer writes, “It's super comfy. A perfect combo of squishy and firm. The color is black/grey with almost taupe undertones. The leather is durable. We have two dogs, one's a giant, who likes to sneak onto the sofa the moment we're out of the room. So far, so good. The style blends nicely with our industrial/farmhouse vibe.” Another reviewer adds, “This leather is tough and will hold up to anything, dogs, cats, four kids. It cleans so easy and feels so soft when you sit on it. You want a nap; enjoy! You want to sit [comfortably] and watch a movie—this is it. The leather is this beautiful dark gray/black/chocolate mix. Also, it goes together with ease and the wood frame and steel legs are gorgeous!”
5. Crate & Barrel Rollins Tufted Sofa
This Crate & Barrel club sofa might be new, but it looks like it was plucked from a 1970s cigar lounge. The top-grain leather is available in three weathered finishes—natural washed camel, chocolate and black—while the deep-seat features traditional button tufting with tapered hardwood legs (finished in weathered oak) for an updated, timeless feel. The tight back and seat cushions are also filled with a firm yet sinkable blend of foam and fiber, all set atop a benchmade frame that’s kiln-dried with engineered hardwood for durability. Plus, an S-spring and elastic webbing suspension give it an extra-springy feel. Oh, and did we mention it’s available in two sizes (75-inch and 90-inch)?
According to reviewers, the modern take on a classic design is the cherry on top: “I searched everywhere for an updated Chesterfield sofa with clean lines, timeless style, and quality construction,” one person writes. “This is the one! It is extremely comfortable and has held up well.” Another reviewer also speaks to its cleanability: “I love it because I find it comfortable, but also, cleaning it is easier/more effective than a fabric sofa. Our nephew ate chocolate on the couch and proceeded to sit on a piece of chocolate for about 10 minutes. When he got up his mom freaked out, but I got out the leather cleaner, cleaned and conditioned the chocolate right off. His mom was extremely relieved, and you definitely couldn’t do that with a fabric couch.”
6. Eternity Modern Mario Bellini Sofa Combination
The other ‘70s-style sofa set you’ve seen all over your feed? This one from Mario Bellini. ICYMI, Bellini is another European furniture designer who helped pioneer the curvy furniture craze in the ‘70s—and his instantly recognizable sofa is a favorite for its modular design. The original Bellini sofa sets can run upwards of $16,000—especially if you’re looking for a leather one. Thanks to Eternity Modern, however, you can score this reproduction set at a fraction of the price. Its design mimics the iconic Camaleonda sofa, where the shaped polyurethane foam cushions have three distinct dense layers, so sinkability is a staple of its construction. You also have the option of six aniline leathers or five vintage leathers–the latter is made from 100-percent European cowhide with a distressed and aged look.
One reviewer raves, “Love love loooooove. Was so hesitant to buy a sofa online that I've never seen IRL but so glad I did it!! The leather is soft and supple, and the camel color is just amazing.” Another adds, “I'm obsessed with my sofa and can't wait to add more modules to it! It's super cozy, but also nice and firm. Also having a lot of fun experimenting with the configuration of the modules–I just moved into a new place and am constantly rearranging things. Amazing to have this flexibility as I continue to refine my overall decor.”
7. Pottery Barn Turner Square Arm Leather Sleeper Sofa
Boasting a high back, thick arms, and down-filled cushions; the fact that this sofa turns into a sleeper is just the icing on the cake. It’s fully customizable with more than 30 top-grain leather options and you have the choice of three widths (58-, 74.5- or 82.5-inch), one, two or three seats and the option to add nailheads. The down-blend-wrapped cushions are also supported by mortise-and-tenon joinery, so you can sink in while still having a springy feel. And don’t even get us started on the design of the sleeper. First, it has a double-locking headrest, which allows the top of the mattress to tilt up for TV-watching, while the fall-away crossbar will never poke into your spine. It also includes a 5-inch thick mattress with a combination of dense foam and gel-infused memory foam, so it’s cooling, moisture-wicking and restorative.
While we don’t have reviews of the pull-out version, one reviewer raves about the Turner sofa (sans mattress): “What I love about the sofa: 1) It’s VERY deep. I’m 5’4 and can sit [cross-legged] or curl up comfortably on less than one cushion! My husband and I can lie side by side to watch a movie. Usually, I end up being slowly pushed off a sofa in these circumstances—but not with this sofa. 2) It’s incredibly comfortable! It’s hard not to fall asleep on this sofa, y’all! My husband spent a week on it when I had COVID and vice versa (we don’t have a guest room and this sofa is so much more comfortable than the fold-out in the bonus room). 3) The extra long seat means more people can sit comfortably. It’s also great in a loooonnngg living room like ours. 4) The style! The sofa is gorgeous, enough said. It can go traditional, boho, modern, cottage, farmhouse, etc.” That said, it’s also worth mentioning this reviewer’s care notes: “The leather does scratch easily, but [we use] a leather refinisher that can make it look like new…I also clean my cushions with distilled water and a soft cloth as needed and remove cushions and vacuum all of the fabric weekly.”
8. Anthropologie Clarke Leather Sofa
With a modern spin on traditional tufting, this Anthro piece draws inspiration from classic Chesterfield sofas (in its signature Boho style, of course). The kiln-dried hardwood frame gives it a relaxed feel while the top-grain nubuck leather (available in seven finishes) gives it a rustic, timeworn finish. Plus it has high-resiliency foam core cushions wrapped in soft fiber padding, so it has a firm and structured seat with a sleek silhouette. Built with a sinuous spring seat and webbed back construction, the comfort and support are unparalleled. This sofa has the uniqueness of being a handcrafted piece, so it’ll arrive with slight variations in appearance, adding to its charm and character.
One reviewer writes, “I just received my couch in sage and it is absolutely gorgeous in person. I was worried it would be uncomfortable (I’ve been burned by beautiful uncomfortable sofas purchased online in the past) but it is so comfortable! The seat is firm but springy and the back is shockingly supportive with the right amount of give. It’s not the type of couch you sink into but I could definitely nap on it. It’s worth the cost and the wait.” Another person adds, “The leather is as soft as it looks! Fits perfectly in our little basement den. I was worried it wouldn’t a good sofa to lounge on but it’s actually really comfortable. Gorgeous piece!”
9. Castlery Jonathan Leather Sofa
Modern and minimalist? Check. Cushy and soft-to-the-touch? Check. Built with durability in mind? Check, check, check. This top-grain leather sofa ticks every box from comfort to contemporary design. The clean-lined silhouette allows for modular seating (with the option to add a matching ottoman), while the frame is skillfully constructed with LVL (laminated veneer lumber) and plywood, ensuring stability and durability. The seats are filled with foam, fiber, and pocket springs and the back features foam and fiber for a firm yet malleable feel. The sinuous spring suspension also gives it a little bounce. Each leather hide is also unique, so it will develop a beautiful patina with use over time. Note: the cover is non-removable and the brand recommends using a leather conditioner to keep it feeling soft and supple—let dry before sitting.
Here’s what one reviewer says: “Leather that passes the scratch test. Some leathers look extremely ugly when you create scratch marks but this couch is quite durable and should hold up to some abuse. I also did some ‘knee tests’ where I jump and knee these cushions. Does NOT bottom out. Lots of [support] and maintains shape quite well. There will be some comfort lines but that's just normal usage. Easy to assemble, good packaging.” Another writes, “The lounging seating is extremely conformable yet firm, a true blessing for any stiff back. The quality of the leather seems very good, resistant yet soft to the touch, and its caramel color tone fits perfectly in most environments.”
BUY IT ($2,599)
10. Crate & Barrel Russo Leather Power Reclining Sofa
Finally, a gorgeous reclining loveseat. This design boasts two motorized recliners in one, offering separate footrests and headrests activated by buttons conveniently placed on each armrest—along with built-in USB ports on each side. The back effortlessly unfolds to provide head and neck support, while the rail elevates to raise your feet, allowing you to customize the angle to your preferences. The cushions are also thoughtfully crafted with high-resilience foam wrapped in fiber-encased ticking, ensuring they’re firm yet soft (and durable enough to withstand heavy use). Plus, the top-grain, semi-aniline leather is finished in a stunning grey color that will complement modern and rustic aesthetics alike.
“This is a gorgeous couch,” one reviewer writes. “My partner likes a reclining couch, but I never really cared much for the style of reclining ‘puffy’ couches. This couch looks much more modern than most of the reclining couches on the market. The leather is soft and supple… If not reclining, it comfortably fits three people across. Normally, when reclining, we fit a 35-pound dog, a 10-pound dog and two people very comfortably. I also like that when this couch reclines, the back doesn't inch further back, so you can put a console table behind it. Even though it looks nice in a photo, it looks [even better] in person.”
How to Choose the Best Leather Sofa For You
When it comes to choosing a leather sofa, you want to make sure you’re selecting a fabric that fits your lifestyle. According to Cindy Rubenfeld, store manager at Circle Furniture, “The quality of the leather is determined, much like meat, by where on the animal the hide comes from. It also comes down to the type of animal and the skill and technique used to make the leather.” So below, find an expert breakdown of different types of leathers, how to care for them, plus everything you need to know about cushions.
What Is The Best Quality Leather For Sofas?
“If ‘best’ means a buttery and supple leather to you, then you’ll probably want to invest in a top-grain or full-grain aniline leather,” notes Rubenfeld. “The majority of high-quality, top-grain leathers use a process called aniline, in which the dye goes all the way through the hide. Visually, this will hold up better over time, and even with wear and tear it looks beautiful. Aniline leather is also leather in its most natural form. Top-grain options will be the most expensive and may not be suited for a more active lifestyle or one that includes children, coming in from a pool, or eating on the sofa. If that lifestyle sounds more familiar to you, then the best leather for you will be one that has medium or heavy protection on it–a coating to protect from spills, stains, and general wear and tear.”
How Many Years Should A Leather Couch Last?
“When taken care of, leather ages like a fine wine—it only gets better and softer with time,” Rubenfeld says. If you care for it properly, it could last a lifetime. “When it comes to choosing the right leather, it all comes down to lifestyle,” she adds. “I'll talk to my clients about how they'll be using the piece of furniture. Do they have a family or animals? Where is it going in the house? Will it be getting used every day? These questions will help you determine what leather is going to last the longest in your home. If comfort and feel are the most important qualities to you, and it isn't a piece of furniture that you'll be eating on—for example, a chair in your bedroom—you might look towards a top-grain leather with light protection. If, on the other hand, you have small children, you'll want to get leather with built-in protection to it, whether that's a protective sealant or a wax coat for a more old-world look. When it comes to cost, the higher the price, the more soft and supple your leather will be.”
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