Choosing Couch Fabric With Style and Durability in Mind

Couches are the centerpiece of most living rooms, so choosing a couch fabric with style and durability in mind is important. Whether you want a soft, snuggle-worthy couch or one that can handle the abuse of a busy household, there’s a sofa material out there that will be right for you. Read on to learn about nine of the most common upholstery fabrics and how they hold up in real life—plus tips for ensuring your new couch is as durable as it looks.

We know cotton as the soft and cozy fabric of our favorite tees, but it also makes for a great couch material! It’s breathable, comes in a range of colors and is easy to clean. Cotton also resists fading and holds its shape well over time, making it a smart choice for couches that see a lot of use.

Another natural option, linen is a strong and soft fabric that’s often mixed with other materials to improve its quality. It’s a good choice for low-traffic areas, but it can stain and wrinkle easily, so may not be the best couch fabric for homes with kids or pets.

Another synthetic fiber, nylon is known for its strength and durability. It’s often blended with other fabric options to increase its desirable qualities, such as color-fastness or elasticity. It’s a good choice for couch fabrics that will see a lot of wear and tear and can stand up to moisture.

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that’s popular in couch fabrics because of its stain-resistant properties. It’s also relatively inexpensive and holds its shape well over time. However, it’s prone to pilling and can be stretched or cracked in high-use areas. If you choose a sofa upholstered in polyester, make sure to select a durable style with a high Martindale rub-test score (humblebrag: Article couches are typically tested to exceed 25,000 rubs!).

While it’s not the most affordable option, wool is extremely durable and naturally stains less than other upholstery materials. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a natural, classic look. However, wool can be a bit itchy and requires regular care and cleaning.