How to Choose Durable Upholstery Fabric

When selecting upholstery fabric, it's essential that you select one that can withstand daily wear and tear. Durability can be measured through various factors like abrasion resistance and stain-repellency; these qualities are particularly crucial if you have kids or pets! Texture also plays a crucial role in how well furniture drapes and how comfortable sitting on it may feel.

Abrasion resistance measures how well fabrics withstand friction and rubbing, with more binding points providing higher abrasion resistance than tighter weaving of fibers together. Furthermore, weight also affects fabric's durability; heavier fabrics tend to outlive lighter ones in this regard.

To test fabric's abrasion resistance, simply rub a piece against your skin. If it feels smooth and unruffled, it has high abrasion resistance; otherwise if its texture feels rough or scratchy it has low resistance.

Stain-repellent properties are essential in any household fabric, and especially upholstery fabric. While some upholstery fabrics are treated with chemicals to help repel stains, for the best results choose one with natural stain-repelling properties instead. Selecting resistant fabric may reduce your cleaning burden while giving you peace of mind knowing your upholstery furniture won't require constant attention to look its best!

Structure can play an integral part in stain resistance for fabric. Denim, in particular, tends to offer greater stain-resistance than loosely woven cotton materials and cotton-rich blends like cotton-linen have excellent stain-resistance.

Texture plays a pivotal role in determining fabric durability, as its texture can convey distinct messages about its characteristics and qualities. Velvet, for instance, exudes luxury and elegance while linen provides crisp texture that ages gracefully over time and breathes well. Finally, wool has an intimate warmth which makes it suitable as upholstery fabric despite its bulkiness.

Another factor affecting fabric durability is how easily it conforms to shape or stretches outward. Knitted fabrics often offer greater drapability due to being less stiff and flexible than their woven counterparts.

Before purchasing furniture that looks brand new for as long as possible, it's essential that you test its upholstery fabric carefully. Order some samples and let pets claw at them while ink smudges are left behind as well as water and food spillage; only then will you know whether a fabric can withstand your lifestyle!

With the appropriate upholstery fabric, your sofa or dining chairs can last for years. Browse Covington fabrics' wide selection to find a long-wearing designer fabric suitable for your next furniture project; classic linen is right at home alongside contemporary velvet options.