Owning a pet is fun and has many great rewards and benefits. But all pet owners know their furry friends make messes. There are times when they will chew up shoes, and sometimes they will get hair on your furniture. The wear and tear they cause on fabrics can also be quite devastating.
Truth be told, cleaning up is a significant part of owning a pet. One way I have dealt with this is by choosing the right dog or cat-friendly upholstery fabric. I must say that I spend significantly less time cleaning up after my pets.
Pet owners assume that pet-friendly upholstery fabrics look unsightly and feel awful. I quickly discovered that there are tons of different options. Shopping for pet-friendly upholstery fabrics is easier than you think!
Fabrics to Choose
- Pleather or leather – This is a great upholstery fabric choice for people with pets because hair doesn’t stick to them. Another reason this fabric is so remarkable is that you can wipe it clean when it gets filthy. While leather and pleather show scratches, they will develop a lovely patina after a while. If you can, it’s still best to prevent your pets from lying on leather or pleather upholstery.
- Synthetic fabric – This is one of my all-time favorite fabrics because it is inexpensive and wears like a dream. For one, this synthetic upholstery fabric will not scratch or rip. Plus, hair can be removed with one swipe of a lint roller. I have even tried just wiping it with my hands to remove hair. Another reason I love this so much is because I can easily remove stains by washing them with soap. You may check out microfiber upholstery fabrics that fit this category as well.
- Denim – If you are looking to give your rooms a more casual feel, you may want to consider denim. I find that it is durable, rugged, and effortless to clean. If you like denim, you may use it for informal rooms in your home.
- Canvas – This fabric is made of cotton, and I like using it as a slipcover for my furniture. It is durable (although not as durable as microfiber) and easy to clean. When my slipcovers get dirty, I throw them in the washing machine, and they are back in pristine condition.
General Rule
If you want to try out other fabrics, then go ahead and do so. Choosing fabrics with patterned or darker colors is best since they can hide dirt and hair. Avoid fabrics like chenille, velvet, and silk. These will not work well because they are delicate and will give in to your pets’ demands.