Upholstered furniture can be both stylish and comfortable. One of the benefits of upholstered furniture is that there are so many different types of fabrics available, so it is easy to coordinate pieces in a room. To help you understand the different types of fabric and leather available for upholstered furniture, including living room sofas, we’ve outlined a few of the top upholstery material types. This will help you choose the right piece for you, your family and your lifestyle.
Leather
Leather is very popular because it is durable and easy to maintain. With rich color, it adds a special touch to any space. However, it is can be scratched, so maintenance can be required to maintain the health of the material.
Polyester
Polyester is a soft fabric that is easy to clean. It has the appearance of a much more expensive material. It is durable and stain resistant, making it great for families with small children. Also, as a breathable fabric, it doesn’t absorb odors like other fabrics. On the downside, it tends to stretch as it ages.
Olefin
As a petroleum-based synthetic fiber, olefin is very durable. It is able to handle heavy daily wear and tear. It has a similar look to wool making it an elegant choice. Still it is water, chemical and fire resistant. This material is easy to clean and can be cleaned with bleach. Over time, it will resist fading. It is often used as upholstery for outdoor furniture but too much sun exposure can make the fabric brittle.
Rayon
Rayon offers comfort very similar to natural fibers even though it is a semi-synthetic. Its popularity can be attributed to its softness and low cost. It resists mildew and pests. It is not water resistant and be scratch and wrinkle easily. If it does get too wet, it sometimes will have issues returning to its original shape.
Cotton
Cotton is one of the most popular upholstery fabrics. This is for good reason. It’s durable and comes in many styles, colors and patterns. It’s also budget friendly. As a natural fabric, it’s breathable, soft and comfortable. Most importantly, its hypoallergenic. Perhaps the only downside is that it can sometimes absorb spills making it more difficult to keep clean.
Silk
For the most luxurious upholstery, people turn to silk. It delivers a high end feel and is often used in rooms with more formal décor. With its lustrous shine, it can be long lasting if cared for properly. There are a few downsides with silk, though. It tends to fade in direct sunlight. It can be expensive and tends to be delicate. However, for special pieces that are not subjected to everyday wear and tear, it’s a beautiful option.
These are just a few fabrics that you can explore for home upholstery. Others to consider include acetate, acrylic, linen, jute, velvet and chenille. Each gives a furniture piece a unique look and tactile feel. When you are considering fabrics for furniture, look at where it will be used, the climate and the look that you are striving to achieve. At our furniture store near San Jose, California, our team will help you find the best fabrics for your furniture.
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