If you’re planning to buy new upholstery fabric for your chairs and sofas, you might find it difficult to decide on what type to buy. Before making your purchase, you should know what your intended use is for the fabric. Is it going to be used for cushion covers? Or maybe you want to use it for cushions and chair upholstery? The best way to decide what type of fabric you want to use is to look at your lifestyle and the environment in which you live. Here’s a guide to furnishing fabric selection.
Linen is a strong natural fiber
Linen is an extraordinarily durable fabric. It is 30% thicker than cotton and has extremely low lint content, which helps it retain its shape and strength even after repeated washings. Linen is one of the most durable natural fibers, so much so that ancient Egyptians used it to make paper money, and the US government uses linen-blend fabric for dollar bills. Compared to cotton and synthetic fabrics, linen is also much more environmentally friendly, making it a sustainable choice for furnishing fabrics.
Another benefit of linen is its antibacterial and moisture-wicking properties. Because it dries quickly, it does not trap dirt and bacteria, making it the perfect choice for allergy-prone people. Linen is also breathable, so it helps regulate body temperature. Unlike cotton, linen does not cause skin irritation or allergies, and it is ideal for allergy sufferers. The breathable properties of linen fabric allow linen to breathe, helping keep the body temperature balanced and prevent dust mites and other harmful bacteria from settling in. Although more expensive than cotton, linen production is more comprehensive and requires slower machines and labor.
Microfiber is a synthetic fabric
Despite the popularity of microfiber, this synthetic fabric is not very absorbent. While this material can hold large amounts of liquid, it also requires more care to soak up spills. Natural fibers, on the other hand, will immediately soak up spills and retain their soft texture even after moderate use. Using a dry towel to absorb spills can prevent microfiber from absorbing liquids, but this technique will not work on a microfiber fabric.
One of the main benefits of microfiber is its stain resistance. Most stains can be removed easily by using soap and water on a microfiber sofa. If a stain is difficult to remove, vinegar and distilled water can be used as a stain-removing solution. However, traditional fabric furniture requires steam cleaning. In addition to using a dry cleaning solution, microfiber is easy to maintain daily. Unlike fabric furniture, microfiber can be spot cleaned. Using a lint brush and mild detergent on a microfiber sofa will prevent minor spills on your microfiber sofa or chair.
Cotton is the cheapest upholstery fabric
When selecting the best upholstery fabric, you need to consider the cost, durability, and maintenance of your new investment. Cotton is the most affordable upholstery fabric and can be found in a variety of colors. This natural fiber is abrasion resistant, durable, and heat-resistant. The downside to cotton is that it’s susceptible to stains and fading. As a result, cotton is not the best choice for everyday use. On the other hand, silk is the most expensive upholstery fabric, and should be used only in formal living rooms. You also need to take care of your silk if it gets dirty and clean it professionally.
Acrylic upholstered furniture is not suitable for houses with pets
Although many upholstered pieces are not suitable for houses with pets, a few types of acrylic backed fabric are still recommended. These fabrics can protect upholstered pieces by resisting stains and allowing them to dry quickly. They also provide additional protection from claw marks and weight. If you have a cat or dog, it is also a good idea to invest in pet-friendly slipcovers for your furniture. These covers are machine washable and are ideal for protecting your upholstered pieces.
One brand of acrylic-backed upholstered furniture is made from flocked yarn. These fabrics have built-in moisture, stain-fighting, and odor-resistant properties. These types of fabrics can be purchased online. These fabrics can also be used as canvas. For extra protection, use Scotchgard or other similar stain-proofing treatments to protect your upholstered pieces from pets. You can also use acrylic-backed fabric to cover your furniture when it is not in use.
Olefin is a synthetic fabric
There are many benefits of olefin, and it can be used for both indoor and outdoor furniture. Olefin can be recycled up to ten times, and is extremely durable. It can even be dyed to look like a natural fiber. The bright, airy colors and thick fibres make olefin furniture perfect for lounge areas. Olefin is even used in automotive interior fabrics.
Olefin fabric is durable and water-resistant. It is highly resistant to fading and is nearly as durable as acrylic outdoor fabric. It is also very colorful, and different dyes are applied during the manufacturing process. Because olefin is so durable, it is easy to maintain and wash. It won’t fade or discolor under sunlight, which is important in outdoor furniture. It is also highly resistant to mold, which makes it perfect for use in humid areas of the home.
