Materials for Reupholstering a Recliner

Reupholstering a recliner can be a tricky job for the average DIYer due to the elaborate shapes, sizes, and also potential hardware and mechanisms to work around. But doing so can save money and allow you to customize how you want it to look.  

Just keep in mind that it’s important to choose the right materials and fabrics to ensure the recliner will not just be stylish but functional.

Choosing the Right Material When Reupholstering a Recliner

The right materials can make or break the success of a recliner reupholstering project. Here are just a few simple factors to think about when choosing the right materials.

Construction and Shape of Your Recliner

The construction and shape of a recliner can impact the amount of fabric needed and the difficulty of the project. Consider the curves, angles, and dimensions of your recliner when selecting your materials.

The Fabric’s Durability and Quality

Choose a durable fabric that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Look for fabrics with high abrasion resistance and thread counts.

Check the Stain Resistance

To keep your recliner looking new for longer, select a stain-resistant fabric. This can be really important if you have pets or children.

How Easy Is It to Clean?

Go with a fabric that is easy to clean and maintain. Avoid fabrics that require special care or cleaning methods. If you have children, pets, or frequent guests, you’ll want something that can easily be spot cleaned or washed when needed.

Check the Colorfast

Select a colorfast material, meaning the color won’t fade or bleed over time. Most fabrics, like the ones in our catalog, will list whether or not it’s colorfast. This is an important factor to consider because the fabric can fade and wear over time with use and exposure to sunlight.

Think About What You Like and What Matches When Reupholstering a Recliner

Choose a fabric that fits your personal style and complements the other furnishings in your home. Go with earthy tones and textures for a more rustic look, bold patterns for something eclectic, and simple colors for a modern home.

Stuffing, Filling, and Cushion Material

The stuffing, filling, and cushion material can also impact the comfort and durability of your reupholstered recliner. Think about going with high-density foam for the cushions to prolong the life and comfort of the chair, and make sure the stuffing and filling materials are supportive and resilient.

Best Fabrics for Reupholstering a Recliner

Here are some of the best fabrics for reupholstering a recliner, along with their pros and cons.

Leather

Whether real or faux, leather is a durable and easy-to-clean fabric that looks luxurious and timeless. But it can also be expensive and may not be ideal for households with pets or young children.

Microfiber

Quality microfiber materials are soft and comfortable, and they’re easy to clean as well as stain-resistant. It’s also a budget-friendly option. What more could you want? Just keep in mind that it may not be as durable as fabrics like leather or vinyl.

Chenille

If you’re looking for something a little fancy, chenille is a plush and comfortable fabric with a soft texture. It’s also extremely durable and very easy to clean. But it’s also known to attract pet hair and dust, and it shows it well, so that’s something to keep at the back of your mind if you have pets.

Velvet

A less common option is velvet, but it made the list because it’s a luxurious and elegant fabric that’s oh-so-soft to the touch. It can add a touch of glamour to your recliner, giving it a high-end look.

The biggest downside to velvet is that it can get pricy and needs special care and maintenance. So, reserve it for a special piece of furniture that might not get as much use, like a recliner in your office or one that kids and pets won’t be using.

What Goes Inside Your Recliner 

When it comes to stuffing, filling, and cushion material for a recliner, there are many options available. Some popular materials include the following.

  • Foams: This is a common material for filling recliner cushions. It’s also available in several different densities and thicknesses, so it’s easy to find the perfect fit for your home recliner.
  • Polyester: One of the more popular materials for stuffing because it’s super durable and retains its shape well, plus it’s inexpensive.
  • Down: Whether real or alternative, down filling is soft and fluffy and often used in high-end furniture and bedding. It’s super comfortable, but it can get expensive and sometimes requires regular fluffing to maintain its shape.
  • Synthetic fiber: Most synthetic fibers are a durable and affordable choice for filling your recliner’s cushions. It’s also really easy to clean.
  • Springs: Some recliners have springs in the seat and backrest for added support and comfort. If your recliner has springs, check what condition they’re in and see if they should be updated.

Reupholstering a Recliner FAQs

What’s the best fabric for reupholstering a recliner?

The best fabric for reupholstering a recliner depends on your preferences and needs. Leather is a durable and classic option, while microfiber is budget-friendly and easy to clean. Chenille and velvet are also popular options.

Is reupholstering a recliner possible?

Yes, a recliner can be reupholstered. But you must choose the right materials and fabrics to ensure a comfortable and durable result.

How much does it cost to get a recliner reupholstered?

The cost of reupholstering a recliner will always vary depending on the size of your recliner, the materials you choose, and the labor cost. Expect to budget anywhere between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. The best idea is to set a budget and shop for fabrics and materials within your means.

Is it worth it to reupholster a chair?

Whether or not it’s worth it to reupholster a chair depends on several factors, including the condition of the chair and your ability to DIY the project. But it’s well worth the time and investment.

Breathe New Life into Your Recliner!

Use these tips when purchasing your fabric and materials to reupholster your home’s recliner. And be sure to check out our amazing and vast selection of high-quality fabrics to do the job!

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