The fabric on a sofa, chair or ottoman decides how it feels, how it wears and how easy it is to clean. This guide covers the main types of upholstery fabric, from natural linen and cotton to velvet, boucle, performance fabrics and leather, with what each is best for and how to choose for kids, pets and busy rooms.
Types of Upholstery Fabric
| Fabric | Feel | Durability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Soft, breathable | Moderate; stains unless treated | Casual rooms, slipcovers |
| Linen | Crisp, relaxed | Wrinkles and stains easily | Low-traffic, airy rooms |
| Polyester / microfiber | Smooth, soft | High; resists fading and stains | Family rooms, pets |
| Velvet | Plush, rich | Good in poly velvets; shows marks | Statement seating, dining chairs |
| Boucle | Looped, textured | Good; loops can snag | Accent chairs, curved sofas |
| Teddy / sherpa | Fuzzy, cozy | Moderate; can mat | Lounge sofas, chairs |
| Performance fabric | Varies | Very high; stain-resistant | Kids, pets, everyday use |
| Leather | Smooth, ages with patina | Very high | Living rooms, offices |
| Faux / PU leather | Smooth | Moderate; can crack over time | Ottomans, accent pieces |
How to Choose Upholstery Fabric
- Check the rub count. The double-rub (Wyzenbeek) test measures abrasion. About 15,000 or more is considered suitable for heavy residential use.
- Read the cleaning code: W (water-based cleaner), S (solvent only), W/S (either), X (vacuum only).
- Consider texture: tight weaves resist pet claws better than loops and loose weaves.
- Think about sun: natural fibers and bright colors fade faster near windows.
- Get a swatch and test it at home.
Examples by Fabric
- Textured fabric: the Freya Curved Sofa-Terracotta lists textured fabric upholstery over foam and pocket springs. Its care instructions say to vacuum with a soft brush and spot clean with a slightly damp cloth and mild cleaner.
- Teddy fabric: the Odin Sofa is upholstered in teddy fabric.
- Velvet: the Upholstered Dining Chair with Velvet Fabric and Metal Legs has a soft velvet finish.
- Water-resistant cotton: the Upholstered Round Coffee Table with Open Shelf Base lists water-resistant cotton fabric.
- PU leather: the Leather-Top Square Coffee Table with Open Shelf has a PU leather top.
Best Fabrics for Kids and Pets
- Performance fabrics and tightly woven polyester or microfiber.
- Leather, which wipes clean and doesn't hold hair.
- Mid-tone or patterned colors that hide marks.
- Avoid loose weaves, loops and silk.
See kid- and pet-friendly furniture and how to get pet hair off a couch.
Cleaning Guides by Fabric
- How to clean a couch
- How to clean a velvet couch
- How to clean a microfiber couch
- How to clean a leather couch
See also how to choose a sofa and our furniture materials guide.
FAQ
What is the most durable upholstery fabric?
Performance fabrics, tightly woven polyester or microfiber, and leather.
What upholstery fabric is best for pets?
Tightly woven performance fabric, microfiber or leather; avoid loops like boucle.
Is velvet a good sofa fabric?
Polyester velvet is durable and soft but shows pressure marks and hair.
What does a double-rub count mean?
It's an abrasion test result; about 15,000+ double rubs suits heavy home use.