Couch Fabric - Choosing the Right One For Your Home

Whether it's jumped on by kids, scratched by cats, or sat on by dogs, the couch has a tough job. That's why it needs a durable fabric that can stand up to the wear and tear of regular use. The best option for that is a thick, heavy and sometimes stiff textile. A fabric with a high thread count, woven tightly together, is also a good choice as it will feel soft and comfortable to sit on.

The most popular couch fabric is cotton, which is a natural material that's affordable and easy to clean. It's breathable in warm weather and resists pilling and tears. It's often treated to resist staining, and it's available in a variety of colors and styles.

Another great natural upholstery fabric is linen, which adds a touch of elegance and finesse to the sofa. It's a breathable fabric that doesn't wrinkle easily, but it does require special care in high-traffic areas. It's a favorite in shabby chic and Belgian decorating, and it's available in many colors and textures.

Synthetic fabrics have been a popular alternative to natural fibers for couch fabric. They're made from petroleum products, and some are made to resemble or look like natural fibers. Popular synthetic materials for sofa fabrics include polyester, polypropylene and acrylic. These are often blended with other synthetic or natural fibers to increase durability, abrasion resistance and staining or fading prevention.

Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber that's made from cellulose, which comes from wood pulp. Although it looks and feels soft, rayon doesn't hold up well to rough handling or everyday use. It's a good choice for formal couches or those in a more relaxed setting, but it's not a great choice for homes with children and pets.

Using the right type of cleaner and vacuuming the couch regularly is important for maintaining its condition. However, how often and what type of cleaner you need to use depends on the fabric and its cleaning label. If a fabric is marked WS (wet and solvent), it can be cleaned with water and a mild soap or detergent, but it may shrink in the wash. Those marked D (dry clean only) must be cleaned with dry cleaning products only.

Other common fabric choices for the couch include jute, which has a rope-like texture. It's a durable and sustainable fabric, but it can be uncomfortable to sit on for long periods of time and doesn't do well in direct sunlight. It's a good accent fabric to use with leather or to complement a natural-fiber couch.