When choosing upholstery fabrics, Here’s what you need to know to make a smart decision:

There’s more to consider than just color and pattern. Here’s what you need to know to make a smart, lasting choice:

1. Fabric Durability

Rub Count / Double Rubs: A key durability test. Look for:

15,000–30,000 double rubs for residential use.

Over 30,000 for heavy-use areas or commercial spaces.

Tightly woven fabrics (like canvas or twill) tend to be more durable.

2. Fabric Types

Natural Fibers:

Cotton: Soft, breathable, but can wrinkle or fade.

Linen: Crisp and elegant, but stains and wrinkles easily.

Wool: Durable and warm, often blended to prevent felting.

Leather: Tough, timeless, and easy to wipe clean, but costly.

Synthetic Fibers:

Polyester: Resistant to fading and stretching; commonly blended.

Acrylic: Mimics wool; resists wear and fading.

Nylon: Strong and durable; often blended for longevity.

Olefin: Great stain and fade resistance—ideal for families and pets.

Blends combine the best traits of each fiber.

3. Stain Resistance

• Look for performance fabrics like:

AquaClean®: Allows stains to be wiped away with water only.

Crypton®: Moisture-, stain-, and odor-resistant.

Scotchgard™ treated: Adds a stain-repellent layer.

4. Cleanability

Check the cleaning code:

W: Water-based cleaners only.

S: Solvent-based cleaners only.

WS: Both water- and solvent-based cleaners.

X: Vacuum or light brushing only (professional cleaning recommended).

5. Color & Pattern

Dark or patterned fabrics hide stains and wear better.

Light colors can open up a space but may require more upkeep.

Textures like chenille or boucle can add depth but may snag more easily.

6. Application Matters

Choose a fabric that matches your lifestyle:

High-traffic areas: Go for stain-resistant and durable options.

Formal rooms: Natural or luxe fabrics like velvet or silk (less forgiving).

Kids/pets: Performance or synthetic blends are ideal.

7. UV Resistance

For rooms with lots of sunlight or outdoor furniture, select fabrics with UV protection to avoid fading.

8. Eco-Friendly Options

Consider organic cotton, recycled fibers, or low-VOC treatments if sustainability is important to you.

Would you like help choosing the right fabric for a specific furniture piece or space? Contact Us