When it comes to Couch fabric, durability is a key element. From being sat on, jumped on, and scratched by kids and pets, sofas have a tough time - so the material that holds them together needs to be able to stand up to the punishment they take. That's why it's important to choose a fabric that is able to hold its own against wear-and-tear, and one that will look good as well.
Choosing the right fabric for your home can feel overwhelming, especially when there are so many options to consider. But if you keep the following points in mind when you shop, you'll be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect fabric for your space.
First, decide what type of style you're looking for. Then you can focus on color and pattern to find a fabric that works best with your room's decor and theme. From there, identify your priorities and needs. Is your main concern how comfortable the fabric is, or how resistant it is to stains and wear? Once you've determined your priorities, it's easier to narrow down the selection of upholstery fabrics.
To determine if a fabric is durable enough for upholstering, you need to look at its thread makeup. You can do this by looking at the label on a sample of the fabric, or by asking your local retailer or online store to provide you with the information. Generally speaking, you want to look for a fabric with a high number of threads per inch that are tightly woven together and have a heavy feel to it.
A high number of threads in a tight weave will create a strong fabric that can withstand the abuse a couch is likely to face. It will also be able to resist snags, tears, and rips. The strength of a fabric is often determined by the number of double rubs it can sustain before showing signs of deterioration.
Cotton, linen, and polyester are some of the most common upholstery materials. They're durable, easy to clean, and come in a variety of colors and patterns to match your decor. Nylon, which is often used in combination with polyester to create microfiber fabrics, is another strong option. It's also resistant to fading and wrinkling, but it clings onto pet hair and dirt more than other fabrics.
Olefin, which is made with a blend of cotton, rayon, and polyester, is another durable fabric that's great for families. It uses a patented technology to encase the fibers, which makes it resistant to water, mildew, and stains. It's also easy to sanitize and can be cleaned with a commercial cleaning solution.
Another option is to use a fabric that's designed specifically for furniture. It's less expensive than other fabrics, but it has the added benefit of being breathable and moisture-resistant. This is a great choice for rooms with lots of sunlight. Just make sure to read the care instructions carefully, as some of these fabrics can be delicate and need extra care.