Pet-Friendly Upholstery Fabrics

Pet-Friendly Upholstery Fabrics

21st May 2023

Being a pet owner can be incredibly fulfilling, but it can also present challenges when it comes to maintaining the quality of furniture.

With furry friends around, it’s crucial to select furniture upholstery that can withstand scratches, pet hair, stains, and general wear and tear.

But before you start researching commercial fabrics designed to withstand prolonged and heavy use, know that there are great upholstery fabric options for pet owners available.

Whether you’re a fur parent or the owner of a pet-friendly facility or space, this guide will delve into the world of the best upholstery fabrics for pets. This way, you can get insights and advice on how to make the right choice when it comes to pet-friendly furniture upholstery.

The Importance of Using Pet-Friendly Upholstery

Choosing the best upholstery fabric options for pet owners is essential if you want to maintain the durability and appearance of furniture.

The right fabric choice will not only resist wear and tear but also make cleaning easier, providing a comfortable, easy-to-maintain space for both you and your pets.

Some key factors to consider when looking for pet-proof upholstery fabric include:

• Durability
• Resistance to pet dander and hair
• Stain resistance
• Easy maintenance

4 Types of Pet-Friendly Upholstery Fabrics

There are various fabrics available that are well-suited for homes with pets and spaces where furry friends are welcome. These materials have unique features that make them ideal for withstanding the challenges posed by pets.

Some popular pet-friendly furniture fabric options include:

• Leather: A popular choice among pet owners, leather is known for its durability and resistance to scratches. It’s also easy to clean and repels pet hair. However, it may not be suitable for homes or places with cats, as their thin, sharp claws can still puncture the material. Your option if you want cat- or dog-proof couch material made of leather is to put a blanket or slipcover as it’ll work as an additional layer of protection. Also, if you’re a cat parent, make sure your fur baby’s claws are trimmed regularly.
• Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic fabric that’s both durable and stain-resistant. It’s easy to clean and maintain, and doesn’t attract fur or pet hair making it a great option for households with pets and pet-friendly establishments.

• Canvas: Being a heavy-duty fabric, canvas is resistant to wear and tear. It can be treated with a stain-resistant finish to make it more suitable for pet-friendly spaces. Canvas slipcovers can be easily removed and washed, so maintenance is a breeze.
• Crypton: Crypton is a high-performance fabric that’s resistant to stains, odors, and bacteria. It’s designed specifically for use in homes with pets and is incredibly durable.

Fabrics to Avoid

Pet-friendly establishments and pet owners should avoid certain upholstery fabrics that are more susceptible to damage, stains, and the accumulation of pet hair.

Some fabrics to avoid include:

• Silk: Since it’s a delicate fabric, silk can be easily damaged by pet claws, especially those of cats. Silk is also prone to staining and can be difficult to clean, making it an unsuitable choice for pet-friendly spaces.
• Velvet: While luxurious in appearance, velvet can be a magnet for pet hair and dander. It’s also more susceptible to staining and difficult to clean.
• Chenille: Chenille is a soft fabric with a plush, textured surface. However, its looped construction means it can be easily snagged by pet claws, causing the material to fray, look unsightly and wear down over time.
• Suede: A type of leather with a napped finish, suede can be easily scratched and stained by pets. Additionally, it attracts pet hair and can be challenging to clean.
• Tweed: The textured surface of tweed can trap pet hair, dander, and dirt. Its woven construction also makes it prone to snagging and damage from pet claws.
• Light-colored fabrics: Regardless of their material, light-colored fabrics will show stains, dirt, and pet hair easily.

What to Consider When Choosing Pet-Friendly Furniture Fabrics

When selecting the best pet-friendly upholstery, consider the following factors:

• Type of pet: Different pets have different requirements when it comes to upholstery. For example, cat owners should avoid leather, as cat claws can puncture the material. Dog owners may opt for materials like canvas or microfiber, which are more resistant to wear and tear.
• Pet hair: If your pet sheds a lot, consider choosing a fabric that’s resistant to pet hair. Materials like leather and microfiber don’t attract pet hair, making them ideal choices for pet-friendly spaces.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Choose fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain. You may also consider using removable slipcovers, stain-resistant finishes, and materials like microfiber and leather for ease of upkeep.
• Color and pattern: Selecting upholstery in darker colors and patterns can help hide pet hair and stains. If you’re a fur parent, you may want to go for a fabric that complements your pet’s fur color to camouflage the appearance of its hair on your furniture.

Some Tips for Maintaining Pet-Friendly Furniture

Once you’ve chosen the perfect pet-friendly upholstery, it’s important to take proper care of your furniture to ensure its longevity.

Some tips for maintaining the best pet-friendly sofa fabric include:

• Regular vacuuming: Vacuum your furniture regularly to remove pet hair and dander. This will help keep your upholstery looking fresh and clean.
• Protective covers: Consider using protective covers or slipcovers to safeguard your furniture from pet-related accidents. These can be easily removed and washed when necessary.
• Pet grooming: Grooming pets regularly will help reduce shedding and minimize the amount of hair that’ll end up on your furniture. Ensure that pet nails are trimmed to avoid damage to the upholstery.
• Training pets: You can teach your pets to avoid certain furnishings or areas of your home. You can also provide them with their own designated pet beds or furniture. This can help immensely in reducing the wear and tear on your upholstery.
• Spot cleaning: Attend to stains and spills immediately by spot cleaning affected areas using a mild detergent and water. Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning specific types of fabrics.
• Cushion rotation: Regularly rotating and flipping the cushions on your furniture can help distribute wear and tear more evenly, prolonging the life of your upholstery.
• Professional cleaning: Schedule professional upholstery cleaning every 12-18 months to keep your furniture looking its best. Expert furniture cleaners can get rid of dirt, stains, and allergens that may have accumulated over time or with heavy use.

Find the Right Upholstery With Pets in Mind

Choosing pet-friendly furniture upholstery is an essential aspect of creating a comfortable and inviting space for playful fur babies.

By considering factors such as durability, resistance to pet hair, stain resistance, and ease of maintenance, you can find the perfect fabric to suit your needs.

Leather, microfiber, canvas, and Crypton are all excellent options if you’re looking for pet-friendly upholstery.

If you’re in the market for pet-friendly furniture that can provide years of comfort and style in your space, NGC Nafees is ready to help.

We’re among the most reputable fabric suppliers in Dubai and the rest of the Middle East.

Call our friendly team today!

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