Selecting the proper fabric is probably the most crucial part of ordering new upholstery. Not only do you need to choose something aesthetically appealing, you also need to bear in mind the way it feels, wears and cleans so that it fits your lifestyle.
With so many choices out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But that’s where we come in to help narrow down the choices and collaborate on the best solution to fit your needs. Here are a few things to consider when making your fabric selection:
Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics have become so popular that now more companies are offering treatment services to turn any fabric into a performance fabric after a piece has been made, although fabrics that were originally designed to be performance such as Crypton, and Sunbrella are still the more reliable choice. As a society, we have really changed our way of living and so the evolution of performance fabrics has become very important with a more mobile and casual lifestyle. People want furniture that will withstand pets, kids, entertaining, and just everyday life.
Texture
Many fabrics may look great, be stain-resistant and have the durability you need but then fail on the most important test: texture. Nobody likes a piece of scratchy furniture. Your hands may not pick up on the roughness, so when you’re looking at fabrics, make sure to touch them to your face or arm. This is especially important for a piece you’re likely to lounge on, such as a sofa in front of a television.
Durability
You’ll frequently see the term double rubs when researching upholstery fabric. This refers to a test of a fabric’s durability. The double-rub test is done with a back-and-forth motion, similar to the wear that occurs when someone sits down and gets up again. The number of double rubs before the fabric shows visible wear provides the rating. The higher the number of double rubs, the more durable the fabric.
Frequently used upholstered furniture should have fabric with a heavy-duty rating (more than 15,000 double rubs). Less frequently used pieces, like occasional chairs or a sofa in a formal room, should be fine with medium (9,000 to 15,000 double rubs) or light (3,000 to 9,000 double rubs) ratings.
Maintenance
Maintenance is key to the longevity of your furniture. To keep the fabric from wearing out, vacuum your upholstered furniture at least monthly. When you purchase a new piece, make sure to read the care instructions, including whether you can clean the fabric with water. If you need to use a solvent upholstery cleaner instead, pick some up so you’ll have it on hand when something spills. There are also companies that specialize in cleaning upholstery.