Choosing upholstery is about more than finding the perfect color or pattern. Fabrics consistently get worn over time, so it’s important to choose a fabric that holds up well over time— especially if you have kids, pets and frequent guests.
Contrary to what you might think, durability doesn’t just depend on fiber content. Fabric construction, resiliency, cleanability, intended use and ongoing maintenance can all affect how upholstery performs over time. Here are some of our top picks to consider when durability is a priority for your home.
what makes upholstery fabric durable?
When looking for durable upholstery fabric, you’ll want to consider how the material will perform in your everyday environment. A sofa used daily by an active family has different needs than an accent chair in a lesser-used formal living room.
Fiber content and fabric construction go hand-in-hand when it comes to durability. Tightly constructed fabrics help reduce issues like pilling, while resilience helps fibers recover from constant use. Cleanability is also important to consider, as a durable fabric still needs to be properly cleaned and maintained to keep up with appearances.
1. nylon
Nylon is a durable upholstery fabric known for strength and resiliency. This makes it our top pick for durable fabric. Its ability to resist abrasion and recover from crushing makes it particularly useful for furnishings that receive frequent use.
One of the greatest benefits of nylon fabric is that it does not pill, although like other synthetic fibers. It can also be used in outdoor furnishings when it is solution dyed.
The only downside is that it is oleophilic, meaning it attracts oils. Body oils, cooking oils, and other oily residues can be more difficult to remove than with other fiber types.
Although, like any upholstery fiber, nylon’s performance also depends on how the fabric is constructed and maintained.
2. Polyester
Polyester is one of the most common synthetic fibers used in upholstery. It has good strength and resiliency and typically responds well to both wet and dry-cleaning methods.
However, there is a downside to consider when it comes to polyester. Like other synthetic fibers, it is also oleophilic. Depending on the construction of a particular polyester fabric, pilling can sometimes be an issue. Quality and construction of polyester should always be considered before choosing a polyester fabric.
3. olefin
Olefin is a strong synthetic fiber that offers great resistance to moisture and many types of staining. All olefin fabric is solution dyed. These characteristics make it a practical option for both households and outdoor furnishings.
Olefin does have a few considerations when it comes to maintenance. Like polyester, it is oleophilic— making routine cleaning and maintenance a must. It can also be susceptible to matting, which can become difficult to correct once it occurs. Olefin’s low melting point means that excessive heat and friction should also be avoided when possible.
Despite these considerations, olefin generally cleans well and resists stains, making it a durable option when properly maintained.
4. acrylic
Another synthetic option worth considering is acrylic. I’m sure you’re seeing a trend here that synthetic fabrics are typically the most durable. Acrylic is praised for its resistance to sunlight and outdoor elements, which is why it’s commonly found in outdoor furnishings.
This can make acrylic an especially useful choice for furnishings exposed to significant sunlight or used in outdoor living spaces.
5. cotton
Synthetic fibers may have the top 4 spots on this list, but they aren’t the only durable option. For those who prefer natural fibers, cotton can be another option for durable upholstery fabric. Cotton is strong, comfortable and versatile, and its performance can vary depending on the quality and construction of the fabric. Tightly woven cotton fabrics and cotton blends are generally better suited for upholstery that receives regular use.
Cotton does have some maintenance considerations. Because it is an absorbent fiber, spills can penetrate the material more easily than with many synthetic fibers. Professional fabric protection, proper cleaning and routine maintenance can help increase the longevity of cotton upholstery. Cotton is actually stronger when wet which makes cleaning easier. The key to longevity is timely cleaning,
Make durable upholstery fabric last for longer
Choosing a durable upholstery fabric is only the first step. Even the most resilient fabric benefits from routine care and preventative measures.
Vacuuming regularly, rotating cushions, quickly tending to spots and spills and scheduling professional cleaning when needed can help extend the life of your furnishings. Professional fabric protection can add another layer of defense by reducing the absorbency of the fabric and making everyday spots and spills easier to manage.
Keep in mind that fabric protection works on all types of fabrics— so if the fabrics in this article don’t fit your style, we can still protect your favorite pieces.
choosing the best durable upholstery fabric for your home
There isn’t one durable upholstery fabric that’s the right fit for every home. Polyester, nylon, olefin, acrylic and wool each provide different advantages, but the best choice depends on your lifestyle and what characteristics matter most to you.
With the right fabric— and the help of protection, cleaning and maintenance— you can help your furnishings stay looking their best for years to come.
