silly question - could a leather chair survive toddler eaters?

[katemom]

I have a 10 month old who still eats in the highchair, (how long do they usually stay in a highchair anyway)? 
but will eventually use our regular table chairs (and probably with a booster for a long time).  We are currently deciding between 2 dining table sets: one is a cheaper set, with wooden chairs and vinyl seat cushions, and the other is our dream table that is a bit more money with all-eather chairs.  We don't want to spend a ton of money on the table and chairs we really want if they won't survive what a kid will do to them at mealtimes over the next years.  Since you are all likely well into the toddler phase by now, or perhaps even have older children, what are your recommendations on the matter?  Sorry, I know this is a superficial topic, but I thought some of you might be able to help us.

Thanks!

katemom

[Caroline-Charlies Mummy]

I'd say yes - and it wipes clean with baby wipes, too

[N Lou]

What colour leather? 

They should wipe clean easily after each mealtime (lighter leathers may stain though)
and you may have to remove the booster seat when not in use as they have a tendency to leave dents in padded seats.

Personally if its a suite thats super expensive and likely to bring you out in a sweat everytime your child spits yoghurt then its not worth the stress.  (i know a mum who has just spent £2000 on her dining room furniture and won't let her family use it! Pointless!)
Let us know what you decide!

[lilmonkey]

We don't have leather chairs but a few weeks ago we were at a friend's place for vacation and their leather furniture survived dd's eating habits.  I just make sure that all liquids are wiped up right away.  I was afraid that we need to place a plastic sheet over dd's chair but our friend says that leather cleans up really well.  BTW dd has never been  messy eater.  She spill some food here and there but never the one to purposely throw or drop food for attention.  Cold you have the store sray a leather protectant on it?  Our armchair was treated and we have no problem so far.

[Caroline-Charlies Mummy]

you may have to remove the booster seat when not in use as they have a tendency to leave dents in padded seats.

Oooo, good point!

[bethann]

It would depend on the type of leather.  There are some leathers which are finer grade, and are more fragile.  Some leathers are waxed or have a stronger protective coating on them already.  Some are made for high use- others are not.  So- it would depend on the leather.  Where would you be buying the set from?

[katemom]

Thanks for your answers!  To reply to some of your questions...The table and chairs are from Room & Board, here is a link showing a picture of the set.  (Although the colors aren't right).

http://www.roomandboard.com/rnb/collection.do?method=get&id=377413&cat=54

The color of leather is black, and it says it is polished leather, but I don't know what grade/quality, but probably not the highest.

Yeah, I was thinking of keeping one of our older chairs around for the booster phase, and staining it to at least match the color of the other chairs, because I'm guessing it would be nice to leave it permanently attached without having to worry about indentations?

Anyway, I really appreciate your input, as I can't really anticipate what is ahead in terms of eating/messes/furniture issues!

Thanks, katemom

[jennyh]

we have leather sofas and they just wipe clean with babywipes

[Deb_in_oz]

we have a leather sofa and i could be tempted to have leather EVERYTHING  - it is the best for kids.  even if you did not want a different chair for the booster child you could put a dark towel between the booster and the chair... but i like the idea of staining the chair to "go" with the new set until the booster is gone (BTW my youngest went booster free around 18 mo but then chooses to stand on her seat a lot  )

[bethann]

That is a beautiful set! love it.     You could always call up and ask what kind of protection there is on the leather chairs and if it's appropriate for high use.  Otherwise, I second the other replies and say just go for it. Babywipes are great. 

[Claire Anne]

Oooh very stylish!!

I have a leather sofa and it is a breeze to keep clean! Much easier than cloth. I'd say it would be better than many other types.