Thinking of purchasing new furniture? Before you commit to a certain fabric just because you like the way it looks, take into account how well the fabric will hold up to your lifestyle. The wear and tear you will expose it to in addition to its ability to resist staining and how often it needs upholstery cleaning, may be more important than the color or texture at this stage of life. 

Leather

One of the most popular choices for furniture, leather is easy to care for. And because it is water resistant, cleanup is easy, too. Leather can work well in any setting, from casual to formal. 

Pros: 

  • Care is easy
  • Long lasting
  • Durable
  • Doesn’t hold on to odors

Cons: 

  • Not as comfortable as other fabrics
  • Can be damaged by sharp objects, pet claws, or excessive sun exposure
  • Expensive fabric

Wool

Wool is not one of the most common choices, but there are plenty of good reasons to choose it when reupholstering furniture. Wool stands up to daily use and comes in one of the largest ranges of blends and colors, so it can definitely be a good choice in the right circumstance. 

Pros: 

  • Fire-resistant
  • Water-resistant
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Durable
  • Insulating 
  • Comfortable 

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Dry clean only

Cotton

Cotton is hands-down the most common upholstery fabric. People love how versatile it is. Cotton can by dyed any color and is very comfortable. Additionally, cotton comes in different grades, ranging from inexpensive to very high end, so it can fit any budget. Cotton can also be used in blends to increase its benefits. 

Pros: 

  • Natural
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Soft
  • Dye-friendly
  • Durable

Cons: 

  • Dye transfer from clothing and pillows
  • Absorbent 

Silk

Silk isn’t a great choice for homes with small children or pets because it stains easily and does not have a great deal of elasticity. However, it is a good investment for pieces you don’t use every day since it is considered very formal. 

Pros: 

  • Luxurious
  • Wide variety
  • Long lasting

Cons: 

  • Expensive
  • Dry clean only
  • Stains easily 

Linen 

Linen has a unique texture, and an earthy, natural appearance. It can be mixed with synthetic fabrics to make it more comfortable, last longer, and wrinkle less. 

Pros: 

  • Affordable
  • Durable
  • No pilling 
  • Eco-friendly

Cons: 

  • Wrinkles
  • Stains easily, partially due to its naturally light colors
  • Requires professional cleaning

Velvet

Velvet furniture is show stopping. It’s the perfect way to invest in prized pieces that will be kept or sold. Although it isn’t necessarily for everyday use, velvet upholstery will make a statement in a formal room. 

Pros: 

  • Luxurious
  • Dye-able 
  • Insulating
  • Makes surfaces look even more voluminous

Cons: 

  • Hard to clean 
  • Expensive
  • Not ideal for all home styles

Polyester

Sometimes called microfiber, polyester is a common upholstery material for living rooms and bedrooms alike. Although it is a more affordable fabric, polyester has a high-end texture, so it is a really good all-around choice. 

Pros: 

  • Easy to clean
  • Dries quickly
  • Stain-resistant
  • Doesn’t hold on to odors

Cons: 

  • Stretches with age
  • Flammable

Olefin

Olefin, also called polypropylene, was designed for use on outdoor furniture, but it is also a good choice for sunrooms, enclosed porches, and some interior spaces as well. Olefin is made from recycled plastic, giving it many durable qualities, yet it resembles wool in some ways. 

Pros: 

  • Water-resistant
  • Fire-resistant 
  • Fade-resistant
  • Easy to clean

Cons: 

  • Limited choices
  • Becomes brittle with extended exposure to sunlight
  • Texture is best suited for outdoor projects

Acetate

Acetate is popular because it looks like silk, but it is better able to stand up to daily use. However, acetate is still not comparable to other synthetic fabrics in terms of strength and durability.  

 Pros:

  • Imitates the look and feel of silk
  • Pill resistant
  • Inexpensive
  • Mold- and mildew-resistant 

Cons: 

  • Weak material 
  • Stains easily
  • Dry clean only

Acrylic

Acrylic is great for casual living spaces. It is similar to wool in texture, but it is less expensive. This soft, synthetic fabric can be blended many different ways, offering even more texture and color options. 

Pros: 

  • Soft
  • Vibrant colors
  • Indoor or outdoor use, safe for use in the direct sunlight

Cons: 

  • Pills badly
  • Sensitive to heat and flames
  • Allergenic 

Upholstery Cleaning & Care

Upholstered furniture will be padded, so spills and debris can work their way through the outer layer of fabric well into the batting. This can lead to odors, stains that keep coming back, and mold in your furniture. 

To eliminate the risk of these things happening, your furniture will need to be cleaned regularly. Not only will professional upholstery cleaning keep your furniture looking good, but it will also help you maintain its condition over time. 

Some fabrics – leather, for one – are quite durable, but they are only guaranteed for 5 years or so. On the other hand, a velvet chaise that you only use for decorative purposes may be guaranteed for 15 or more years. Of course, all this depends on the use and care that you give your newly upholstered furniture. 

Take care of it by cleaning spills immediately and scheduling yearly professional upholstery cleaning from A+ Restoration & Cleaning. We offer carpet cleaning too!

With proper care and regular cleaning, you will definitely get your money’s worth out of furniture anywhere in your home or business!