Guide to Upholstery Fabric:

Choosing the Right Fabric for Durability and Care.

Upholstery fabric plays a pivotal role in the aesthetic and longevity of furniture. Whether you're upholstering a sofa, chairs, or cushions, the fabric you choose will directly impact the durability, appearance, and ease of maintenance of your pieces. Understanding the differences between natural and synthetic fibers, as well as the associated care instructions and durability ratings, will ensure you make the best choice for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of upholstery fabrics, their fiber composition, their durability (including the Wyzenbeek rating), and their care requirements (including handling spills, dry cleaning, and spot cleaning).

1. Natural vs. Synthetic Fibers: Durability and Benefits

When choosing upholstery fabric, it's essential to understand the key differences between natural and synthetic fibers. Both have their benefits and limitations, and the right choice depends on the intended use and maintenance preferences.

Natural FIBRES

• Cotton: Known for its softness and comfort, cotton is breathable and naturally hypoallergenic. However, it’s not very durable and is prone to wrinkling and fading. Cotton is ideal for light-use pieces, such as decorative chairs or cushions.

  • Pros: Soft, breathable, natural.

  • Cons: Prone to stains, fading, and wear over time.

• Linen: Linen is a durable and natural fabric made from flax. It’s known for its texture and relaxed, chic look. It is strong but wrinkles easily and can be prone to fading when exposed to direct sunlight.

  • Pros: Strong, breathable, luxurious.

  • Cons: Wrinkles easily, can fade, needs careful cleaning.

• Wool: Wool is a highly durable and naturally fire-resistant fiber. It resists wrinkles and maintains its shape over time. Wool also naturally repels dirt and stains. It’s ideal for colder climates and high-traffic areas.

  • Pros: Durable, warm, naturally stain-resistant.

  • Cons: Can be itchy for sensitive skin, can shrink if not properly cared for.

Synthetic Fibers

• Polyester: One of the most popular synthetic fabrics, polyester is strong, durable, and resistant to stretching, shrinking, and fading. It is also resistant to stains, making it ideal for families with kids or pets.

  • Pros: Durable, affordable, stain-resistant.

  • Cons: Can pill over time, less breathable than natural fibers.

• Nylon: Known for its excellent strength and abrasion resistance, nylon is often used in commercial upholstery. It’s highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, but it can be prone to staining.

  • Pros: Strong, abrasion-resistant, durable.

  • Cons: Stains easily, less breathable.

• Acrylic: Often used as a wool alternative, acrylic is lightweight, strong, and resistant to fading and mildew. It’s a great option for outdoor furniture.

  • Pros: Durable, resistant to fading, mildew, and stains.

  • Cons: Not as soft as wool or cotton.

2. The Wyzenbeek Rating: Understanding Durability

The Wyzenbeek test is a standard test used to measure the durability of upholstery fabrics. The test simulates the wear and tear fabric experiences from typical use, specifically rubbing. Fabrics are rated based on how many cycles they can endure before showing signs of wear.

• Light Duty (Under 7,500 rubs): Fabrics that are suitable for occasional use, such as for decorative pieces.

• Medium Duty (7,500–15,000 rubs): Fabrics that can handle moderate wear, like for chairs or side seating.

• Heavy Duty (15,000+ rubs): Fabrics that are ideal for high-traffic areas and heavy use, such as sofas, office furniture, or commercial spaces.

The higher the Wyzenbeek rating, the more durable the fabric is against everyday use and abrasion.

3. Fabric Care: Cleaning, Spot Treatment, and Maintenance

Cleaning Upholstery
The care required for upholstery depends largely on the fabric type. Below are common guidelines for different types of fabrics:

• Cotton & Linen: Often machine washable, but can shrink if not cared for properly. For stains, use a gentle detergent or mild soap, and air dry.

  • Spills: Blot immediately with a clean cloth. Avoid rubbing.

  • Dry-Cleaning: Linen and some cotton fabrics should be dry-cleaned for best results.

• Polyester & Acrylic: These fabrics are generally resistant to stains and can usually be spot cleaned with soap and water.

  • Spills: Blot stains immediately. Use a diluted vinegar or mild soap solution for more stubborn stains.

  • Dry-Cleaning: Not necessary—most can be machine washed or spot cleaned.

• Nylon: Both synthetic fabrics are durable and easy to clean. They tend to resist stains but can absorb oils and dirt over time.

  • Spills: Blot up excess liquid immediately. Use a commercial cleaner for tougher stains.

  • Dry-Cleaning: Some nylon blends may require dry cleaning, but most synthetic fabrics can be cleaned at home.

• Wool: Wool fabrics are naturally resistant to stains but should be cleaned with care to prevent shrinkage.

  • Spills: Immediately blot up any liquid with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid scrubbing, as it can damage the fiber.

  • Dry-Cleaning: Recommended for wool fabrics, especially for larger pieces like upholstered chairs or sofas.

Routine Maintenance Tips:

• Vacuum regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris.

• Rotate cushions and pillows regularly to ensure even wear.

• Use a fabric protector spray to help maintain the fabric's integrity and prevent stains.