Choosing upholstery fabric may feel like a design decision, but in reality, it’s much more than that. If your furniture gets used daily, then your fabric must be able to handle the pressure. Whether it’s the family sofa, a reading chair, or your dining bench, durability and ease of maintenance are key.
If you’re planning a refresh for your interiors or looking for furniture upholstery in Leicester, the right knowledge will help you make the right call. Let’s break down the choices so you can get both style and function.
Start with How You Use the Space
Before you even think about colour or texture, consider your lifestyle. Your habits will tell you what the fabric needs to do for you.
- Have pets or children?
You’ll want something durable and easy to clean. - Use the furniture daily?
Prioritise high rub-count or performance fabrics. - Prefer a quiet reading spot?
Go for comfort and softness first.
Everyday Fabrics That Can Take the Wear
Not all fabrics work equally well in busy households. Focus on materials that hold up under pressure. Here are the top picks for durability:
- Microfibre: Soft, stain-resistant, and pet-friendly.
- Cotton Blends: Breathable and affordable with decent longevity.
- Linen (with protection): Fresh look, which is best in less chaotic rooms.
- Leather: Strong, sleek, and ideal for high-use spots.
- Performance Fabrics: Designed for everyday family life and easy care.
Know the Rub Count
In the UK, upholstery fabrics are rated by their Martindale score, also known as the rub count. This rating indicates the level of toughness in a fabric.
- For everyday furniture, look for fabrics with 20,000+ rubs.
- For decorative or rarely used items, under 10,000 may be enough.
- Over 30,000 rubs is ideal for heavy use, pets, or kids.
Think Practical with Cleaning and Maintenance
If you have to scrub and worry every time there’s a spill, that’s not ideal. Choose low-maintenance fabrics that don’t stress you out.
- Go for stain-resistant or treated materials.
- Use removable cushion covers when possible.
- Avoid fabrics that trap dust or absorb smells.
Style Still Matters: Choose Colours and Patterns Wisely
Your upholstery doesn’t have to be boring to be practical. Smart styling helps hide the mess, manage wear-and-tear, and add a distinct flair.
- Pick mid-tone colours that don’t show dirt easily.
- Choose patterns or weaves that disguise marks or pet hair.
- Factor in sun exposure and avoid fade-prone shades near bright windows.
Try Before You Buy
Feel matters just as much as looks. If possible, request fabric samples or visit a local showroom to get a feel of the texture.
- Test comfort, texture, and thickness.
- See how the fabric looks in your room’s light.
- Rub the sample to test wear resistance.
The best fabrics strike a balance between beauty and strength. When making decisions about furniture upholstery in Leicester, think beyond the showroom look. You’ll thank yourself every time your furniture stands up to a busy day and still looks great. For expertly tailored upholstery services and fabric advice, turn to Sarah Marshall Soft Furnishings. Our expert team brings both design flair and everyday practicality to homes. Contact us now.