And at this stage, the buyer has a question - which upholstery and fabric for the sofa is better, more durable and more practical, and how to choose the most durable materials. The shelf life of a product for long-term use can be influenced by various factors. Having studied all the possible options, take into account several particularly important points - the quality of the canvas, the color fastness of the design elements, the wear resistance of the product and its cost.
When purchasing any type of furniture, pay attention not only to its attractive appearance, range of functionality, but also to other external indicators. They should be ideal for their future purpose: be it a living room, a nursery or a bedroom. Nowadays, there are many varieties that manufacturers use. In this article you will learn about all the intricacies of choosing the right quality products. And we will reveal the features and nuances in using the most popular materials.
What is the fabric category
There is a certain classification into categories. Thanks to this, you can find out not only the performance characteristics, but also understand how high-quality the fabric used for upholstery is. The higher the category, the denser and more expensive the materials.
| Category no. | Fabric type |
| 0 | Lightweight materials - cotton, thermal jacquard, scotchgard, light series of chenille fabrics. Suitable for furniture that is rarely used. Durability up to 5 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test. |
| 1 | Somewhat denser than the previous category. Not suitable for upholstering chairs, children's furniture and kitchen furniture. Durability up to 7 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test. |
| 2 | Fabrics of the first category, but with increased density and wear resistance (jacquard, flock, corduroy). Withstand 10-12 thousand abrasion cycles. |
| 3 | Fabrics with non-standard weaving, denser and thicker. Durability is about 15 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test. |
| 4 | Very dense fabrics - tapestry, bouclé chenille, suede with a pattern. Wear resistance - 18 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test. |
| 5 | Fabrics with lining or admixture of natural fibers. Withstands 20-22 thousand abrasion cycles. |
| 6 | Leatherette with a wear resistance of about 30-50 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test (Arpatek, eco-leather, nano-leather). |
| 7 | Genuine leather of varying degrees of tanning. Premium materials with complex woven patterns, high levels of wear resistance. Durability of at least 50 thousand cycles according to the Martindale test. |
The higher the number, the higher quality the fabric for the sofa. Naturally, it makes it more expensive. But if you choose the right product and properly care for it, even category 0 can last a long time.
Scotchgard
Scotch guard covering
If you are wondering what category of fabric to choose for your sofa, we recommend paying attention to this material. Because it is the same as jacquard, only a little cheaper. It is characterized by a long service life and resistance to contamination. Only natural raw materials were used in its production. The material is soft to the touch. It should also be said about its durability.
To remove dirt, it is permissible to use only soap and a soft towel; in addition, you can use dry cleaning with a vacuum cleaner. At the same time, the material must not be dried or squeezed out. The maximum washing temperature is 40 degrees. The use of abrasive cleaning agents, bleaches or solvents is strongly discouraged. Also, do not expose the material to sunlight.
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Popular types of upholstery fabric
There are many types of fabric for sofas. It can be both natural and synthetic. The differences lie in price, features and appearance. In order to choose a sofa with a suitable surface that can serve for a long time, you need to know its description. Below are the best fabrics for upholstery.
Velours
Has a velvet surface. But he needs constant care. Upholstered furniture upholstered in velor is great for a bedroom, but is completely unsuitable for a nursery, since this material attracts dust. The advantages include the following factors:
- excellent air permeability;
- soft;
- does not stretch;
- looks beautiful.
At the same time, we should not forget about the disadvantages of velor. Firstly, it needs to be cleaned constantly. Secondly, it is prone to abrasion. And this reduces the service life.
Velours
Scotchgard
This is one of the subtypes of jacquard - the most practical material for sofa upholstery. It is resistant to dirt accumulation because it is impregnated with special substances. Suitable for a product that is often used for sleeping instead of a bed. Advantages:
- moisture resistance;
- strength;
- attractive appearance;
- does not attract dust.
The only downside is the high cost of upholstered furniture - due to the inflated price of these upholstery fabrics.
Owners of upholstered furniture upholstered in Scotchgard claim that the fabric is very durable and stain-resistant. These sofas are suitable for a children's room. The appearance does not deteriorate with intensive use.
Scotchgard
Jacquard and thermojacquard
This is a high quality material with a variety of patterns. Sofas upholstered in jacquard or thermal jacquard are suitable for living rooms. The fabric itself is very dense, wear-resistant, and does not fade. However, it is not recommended for cat owners to purchase such upholstered furniture. Animals leave puffs on the material with their claws. The advantages include the following:
- long service life;
- strength;
- aesthetics;
- wide choice of colors.
Despite the positive features, there are disadvantages. The fabric has a slippery surface, which makes handling unpleasant for some people. The second factor is mandatory compliance with cleaning recommendations. Since jacquard and thermal jacquard deteriorate from water, you will have to clean the sofa using dry methods.
These materials look luxurious and prestigious. Beautiful patterns can be applied to them. Jacquard fabrics are most often used in classic interior styles.
Jacquard
Chenille
Among the fabrics for upholstered furniture, practical chenille is distinguished, which is a little similar to corduroy. This is a soft material that is pleasant to touch. Sofas with such upholstery are perfect for a children's room. The advantages include the following factors:
- the color is well preserved over time and is not affected by direct sunlight or frequent cleaning;
- the fabric is soft and durable;
- does not absorb odors;
- has resistance to damage.
One of the disadvantages is that cats easily leave puffs on the surface of the material, especially if there is embroidery on the fabric. In addition, it is an expensive material. A sofa upholstered in chenille will last a long time, and this plus outweighs the minuses.
Chenille
Flock
A very popular material for making upholstered furniture. There are different categories, flock colors. It is made from cotton and polyester. Has a velvety texture.
Sofas with such upholstery are suitable for a children's room, bedroom and living room. But you should not choose such products for the kitchen, because the fabric absorbs odors well. Among the positive aspects are the ability to repel moisture and debris, durability, and ease of maintenance.
Flock sofas are suitable for homes with pets as the material is durable and difficult to tear. Dirt can be removed with a soap solution; alcohol-based products are not recommended.
Flock
Microfiber
Modern technologies are used to create microfiber. It is essentially faux suede that has a realistic appearance. It is pleasant to the touch. The top is covered with Teflon, so it does not accumulate dust and does not allow water to pass through.
The downside is that sofas with similar upholstery are not suitable for a home with pets. Microfiber easily leaves claw marks. For cleaning, you can use wet cleaning.
Microfiber
Faux leather
Faux leather is suitable for those people who like leather, but are unable to purchase a sofa made from natural material. Eco-leather does not absorb odors and water; furniture upholstered from it is suitable for the kitchen. Other benefits:
- softness;
- affordable price;
- abrasion resistance;
- ease of care.
Disadvantages include poor fire resistance, the possibility of scratches, and stickiness. Therefore, reviews from owners are mixed. The benefits in price and ease of maintenance compete with the high risk of defects.
Faux leather
Faux suede
Faux suede does not have a uniform color due to its texture. The material smells like synthetics. Despite these disadvantages, such upholstered furniture has many advantages:
- combines with most interior styles;
- cannot be deformed;
- does not fade;
- excellent air permeability;
- the upholstery does not stick to human skin.
Despite this, sofas with faux suede upholstery are not suitable for homes with pets. The fabric accumulates dust and dirt and does not tolerate moisture. But reviews from owners are mostly positive - the material is high-quality and inexpensive.
Faux suede
Genuine Leather
Such products are expensive, but of all those currently existing, this is the best material for upholstery of upholstered furniture. It is the most reliable and durable. The choice of a leather sofa demonstrates the good taste and wealth of the owner.
Leather furniture is often chosen for offices and prestigious hotels. This material is easy to care for and has a long service life. But you should pay attention to the negative points:
- high cost;
- damage from fire;
- small selection of colors.
When used at home, the upholstery received conflicting reviews. This is explained by the increased risk of scratches from animal claws.
Genuine Leather
Velveteen
Corduroy has a second name - velvet. It is attractive because it creates the impression of a transfusion of colors and is pleasant to the touch. Resistant to moisture, so easy to clean. The downside is the low strength of the upholstery, which is not suitable for constant use. The corduroy upholstery of the sofa goes best with baroque, classic, and empire styles.
Velveteen
Arpatek
This is a very easy-to-use leather substitute, similar to natural material. It was first used to upholster car seats, but now manufacturers also use it to make furniture. Arpatek is a very durable, fade-resistant material. Its only disadvantage is its high cost.
People who have chosen sofas with such upholstery claim that they do not lose their presentation over time. The material is durable, so it can be preferred if you have animals at home.
Arpatek
Microfiber
Microfiber coating
This upholstery material does not fade or fade when exposed to sunlight, dirt does not eat into it, and water does not penetrate inside. Despite this, the material allows the sofa to “breathe”. It should be mentioned that this upholstery material is susceptible to high temperatures and temperature changes. One of the disadvantages noticeable at first glance is the high cost.
The coating also requires special care measures. The material requires special formulations; washing is allowed only on a delicate cycle, and drying occurs only naturally in the open air. Upholstery material can also be treated with a vacuum cleaner, a damp sponge and a soft-bristled brush.
The material should not be ironed or exposed to acetone or other nail polish removers. To remove serious stains, you can use baking soda and a damp cloth. If we are talking about grease stains, then it is permissible to use detergent. It is also acceptable to use vodka or alcohol.
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Advantages of fabric upholstery
The material for the sofa affects the comfort and ease of use of the furniture. Thanks to the variety of colors and patterns, you can choose a product that will go well with any room. The chosen canvas carries not only aesthetic significance. It provides protection for the inside of the product. The coating protects against dust, dirt, and moisture. It becomes easier to care for, although not all types of upholstery fabrics require the use of wet cleaning.
Most types of materials are affordable, and sofas with them can be purchased even on a limited budget. The choice should be made based on personal preferences, including depending on the room in which the furniture is intended. For example, a product with leatherette upholstery is an excellent solution for the kitchen. There is a huge selection on the market today, so finding something interesting will not be difficult. To find out which sofa upholstery is better, it is recommended to first familiarize yourself with the properties of the fabric.
Since Soviet times, matting has been used for upholstery of upholstered furniture. It is a durable fabric woven by weaving thick fibers. Velor is popular today. This raises the question of what is better for a sofa – velor or matting. Matting is characterized by strength and rigidity, and velor is soft. From the point of view of long-term use, it is recommended to choose hard upholstery, for your own comfort - soft.
Ways to reupholster a headboard
During restoration, it is possible to make a designer bed with a headboard as desired. When changing upholstery, preventive maintenance is carried out in the form of cleaning from dust, repairing broken parts, and impregnating the wood with antiseptics. As a result, you can change the color, style, shape and texture.
Types of work:
Soft headboard. It does not require fastening ties or buttons; it is suitable for those who do not want to spend a long time fiddling with the reupholstery.
The back is designed in the form of squares. Suitable for those who have several pieces of fabric, which are laid on the base in the shape of convex diamonds or squares. They make a plain surface or in a patchwork style.
Carriage tie. The soft layer is fastened with rivets or nails in the form of a geometric pattern, sometimes with folds.
When upholstering the headboard, decorative details, stucco molding, forged elements, and carved figures are used for decoration.
Criterias of choice
Fabric for sofas is selected after familiarization with its characteristics. You should rely on the following parameters:
- What fibers are the upholstery fabrics for the sofa woven from? The material can be natural, artificial (synthetic). In some cases a combination is allowed. When choosing upholstery, you should find out all the advantages and disadvantages of a particular fabric.
- It is important that the appearance of upholstered furniture fits well with the design of the room. If you need to choose a sofa for a child’s room, it is better to ask the child’s opinion. An excellent solution is if the patterns on the product repeat the pattern on the tulle or curtains.
- The higher the density percentage, the stronger and better quality the fabric. The best fabric for a sofa cover with a minimum value of an important indicator is 200 g/m2.
- How resistant is the fabric to abrasion? This value is measured in cycles and checked during the development process. The indicator must be at least 15 thousand abrasion cycles. The most durable fabric for a sofa is required if there are pets, small children, or frequent guests in the house.
- Wear resistance. The fabric can be very susceptible to friction, stretching, and temperature changes. If you choose the wrong material, defects will quickly appear on the product and you will want to change it.
- Color fastness. This indicator means that the shade of the product will not fade, for example, due to constant exposure to sunlight or frequent washing. It all depends on the quality of the paint of the material.
- The fabric must not contain harmful substances. For example, these could be chemicals such as mercury or lead. It should be taken into account that there is an acceptable level at which they do not affect human health. For children's rooms, it is better to choose natural material for upholstery of upholstered furniture, which does not contain chemicals at all. For other rooms, synthetics are also suitable.
- Breathability. The best material for covering a sofa should allow air to pass through it. Otherwise, it will accumulate moisture, which causes mold to appear. Also, if the air exchange is poor, the seams may come apart.
- Synthetic upholstery materials are much easier to clean than natural ones. With frequent wet cleaning, defects may appear on the last fabrics.
- Peelability. If pilling appears on the fabric, its quality is poor. This parameter is checked simultaneously with wear resistance.
These are not all the characteristics that describe the types of practical furniture fabric. But these parameters are the most important. Based on them, you can choose the highest quality product.
In addition, when choosing a sofa upholstery material, you should pay attention not only to its advantages and disadvantages, but also to reviews from owners of upholstered furniture. Thanks to them, you can understand whether the product will last for many years or will require replacement in a short time. It is impossible to single out the best upholstery for a sofa, since each person has his own criteria, and even expert opinions differ on this issue.
Breathability
Variety of textures
Easy to care for
Arpatek
Arpatek coating
This upholstery material looks very similar to leather. The advantages are long service life and ease of operation. This surface feels a little warmer and less slippery than leather. However, the material is susceptible to cracking.
To remove various types of contaminants, it is necessary to use a soap composition; you can also use cleansers that are used for the skin. Do not use chlorine-containing compounds. Also, avoid using alcohol-based cleaners frequently.
Acetone or any bleach is strictly not recommended. Ideally, it is better to stock up on leather interior care products and use only them.
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Courtesan
Courtesan covering
Upholstered furniture with such a coating is a real dream of every housewife. The material is impregnated with water-repellent compounds and is not subject to the formation of dirt. Also, the upholstery material perfectly resists mechanical stress and high temperatures, but at the same time it is quite expensive.
To care for such a sofa, it is permissible to use a vacuum cleaner and various cleaning compounds. Do not dry clean. You can use a soap solution, but do not use strong chemically active components. A sponge and soap are also used to remove grease stains.
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Ecovelor
Eco-velor covering
This upholstery material has an impressive margin of strength, as well as high resistance to abrasion and deformation. During manufacturing, this fabric is repeatedly impregnated with water-repellent compounds. Cleaning is very simple. The material is made from natural raw materials
The upholstery material is very pleasant and soft to the touch; in addition, it does not fade or stretch. The maximum washing temperature for this material is 30 degrees; it is also permissible to use a brush with soft bristles for dry cleaning. It is not recommended to use chemically active components for cleaning ecovelor.
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Forest
Forest covering
It is a fairly durable upholstery material that practically does not deform during use. In addition, it is not susceptible to contamination or liquid penetration. Demonstrates high resistance to mechanical and temperature influences.
To clean this material, use a damp sponge or rag; in addition, only dry surface treatment is permissible. In case of serious contamination, it is permissible to use a soap solution and a cloth.
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