Tips & Hints
Fabric Basics
Oct 8, 2008, 14:46

“What kind of fabric is this and how well will it hold up?”  This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get and in today’s market buying upholstered furniture can be overwhelming and frustrating, especially when there are hundreds of fabrics to pick from.  Knowing the fabric basics can help you decide what is best for you and your family.  Here is a quick guide on fabric basics and their cleanability.

Cotton fabrics are the most commonly used fabric in upholstered furniture.  However, the fabric will fade in direct sunlight.  Most cotton fabrics can be cleaned with soap and water, but we always suggest checking the manufacturer’s  recommended cleaning method.

Cotton Blends are great for individuals with children and pets.  This fabric is very sturdy, but if using it for everyday use you might want to consider applying a fabric protection, such as Ultra Shield.

Damask and Silk are both beautiful to look at and good choices for a formal living room.  Great care needs to be taken with these fabrics so the weave is not damaged.  These fabrics should always be professional cleaned.

Linen is another choice that is good for a formal living area.  This fabric wrinkles easily and also needs to be professionally cleaned.

Wool and Wool Blends are very durable and can be spot cleaned.  However, with any fabric it is best to check the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning.

Leather furniture is a very popular choice because it is easily cleaned with a damp cloth.  It is recommended that if you want to deep clean your leather it should be done with a leather conditioner and then buffed to get off any residue.

Microfiber is a very densely woven material and is relatively new to the furniture market. This fabric is becoming increasingly popular for households with children and pets.  They tend to resist most stains and can be cleaned with soap and water.

Before you invest in new upholstery you might want to consider the room it will be in and who will be using it.  We suggest you always find out the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning method and add a fabric protection, which is usually an additional charge, but well worth the investment.   
 

by Gwen Bonnichsen