I Want Better Sofa Fabric Choices to Last for Kids and Pets

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Factors that determine the durability of the upholstery fabric:

  1. Fabric weave – tight weave or loose weave
  2. Fabric content, percentage of synthetics and natural fibers
  3. Durability testing, aka double rubs testing

Fabric Weave

Tight weave is good construction. Loose weave is a bad construction. 

 Fabric Content

  • Cotton velvet
  • Mohair
  • Sunbrella
  • Crypton
  • Acrylic
  • Microfiber
  • Ultrasuede & Sensuade
  • Sensuede
  • Polyester

  • Durability Measure – DOUBLE RUBS

    Look for at least 30,000 or more is ideal durability. Even better . Anything over 50,000 double rubs If they tell you 100,000 double rubs, great
    The Wyzenbeek machine tests the fabric in both the warp direction (up and down) and the fill or weft direction (right to left). A sample of the fabric is cut into two pieces and each is pulled tight in a frame where it is held stationary. A piece of cotton duck fabric is used and is rubbed back and forth over the fabric, known as the “double rub.When wearing has become evident or two yarn breaks have occurred, the endpoint has been reached, and the fabric is rated.


denim slipcovered sofa
Slipcovered Sofa by Lee Industries

Slipcovers

A good slipcovered sofa can be a lifesaver when you have kids and pets. Lee Industries, for instance, offers a great selection of furniture with slipcovers that wash beautifully.
Fabrics to avoid:  silk, viscose, linen, cotton, nylon, bonded leather.
Important Note: VISCOSE- Please avoid at all costs as you cannot wet clean at all! It is basically ground up pulp fibers and about 40% weaker when it gets wet. Once wet, it folds over and will not stand back up creating what looks like a melted or shiny spot.

Cleaning Codes

Check the cleaning code on the fabric.
S- solvent cleaners
W- water-based cleaners
W/S for both, water based and solvent cleaners