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
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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
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.