Dogs bring joy to our lives but also present challenges for furniture. Scratches, stains, shedding, and odors can wreak havoc on unsuitable fabrics. Thankfully, there are pet-friendly options that stand up to the test of time and paws. With the right pet-friendly sofa fabric, you can create a stylish living space that both you and your furry companions will enjoy.
In this article, we’ve gathered a list of the best choices for pet-friendly fabrics (and the worst ones). We will also take you through the most important things to consider when fabric shopping and share some tips on how to keep your furniture looking brand new even long after your purchase.
Top 6 pet-friendly upholstery fabrics
The right fabric makes all the difference when choosing upholstery for a pet-friendly home. Durable, easy-to-clean materials are the key to resisting the daily wear and tear of scratches, fur, and accidental messes from your furry pals. Below, we've highlighted the top six fabrics that offer a mix of style and practicality depending on your needs.
1. Microfiber
Microfiber is a popular choice among pet owners because it’s durable and affordable. This synthetic fabric is tightly woven, which makes it resistant to scratching and fur accumulation. You can also clean it with just a vacuum or damp cloth, making it a good couch fabric for active dogs that might get on the couch often.
Pros: Highly durable, resistant to stains, and easy to clean. Since microfiber is made of synthetic fiber, it also doesn’t absorb smells as easily as natural materials. The tight weave makes it more difficult for pet hair to stick.
Cons: Can attract dust and lint, needs regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.
Tips: Opt for mid-tone shades to hide fur and dirt. Regularly vacuum and spot clean spills right away. Microfiber is one of the best fabrics for dogs because it is durable, easy to clean, and, no less importantly, affordable.
2. Leather
Leather is another pet-friendly material that is elegant and easy to maintain. Its smooth surface makes it resistant to fur and stains, and spills can often be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
Pros: Scratch-resistant when maintained, doesn’t trap fur, and is simple to clean. Leather is also odor-resistant because it does not absorb smells. It ages beautifully with proper care, lasting you for many years to come.
Cons: Prone to visible scratches if untreated and can feel less cozy for pets compared to softer fabrics. Might be pricier than other alternatives, such as microfiber.
Tips: Choose high-quality top-grain or protected leather for better durability. Use leather conditioners regularly to keep it soft. Place a pet blanket or throw on the surface for more comfort.
3. Performance fabrics
Performance fabrics like Sunbrella and Revolution are among the best pet-friendly sofa fabrics. They are designed to be durable. These fabrics are made to resist stains, scratches, and water damage, and, on top of all that, they’re easy to clean.
Pros: Resistant to spills, scratches, and odors. Fabrics that are treated with stain repellents are easy to clean and practical for everyday use. They are also available in a wide range of colors and textures to suit any decor.
Cons: Typically more expensive than traditional upholstery fabrics.
Tips: Always check for labels indicating "spill-resistant" or "stain-resistant." Consider treating the fabric with an additional stain guard.
4. Canvas
Canvas is a heavy-duty fabric. Its tightly woven structure resists scratches and general wear, making it a practical option for furniture in homes with pets.
Pros: Durable, affordable, and easy to clean. While canvas doesn’t inherently resist odors, it can be pre-treated to improve stain and smell resistance. Its dense weave prevents fur from embedding deeply, making it easier to clean than loose-weave fabrics.
Cons: May lack the softness of other fabrics.
Tips: Use canvas slipcovers for easy washing. Opt for darker or patterned options to conceal fur and minor stains.
5. Crypton
Crypton fabrics are a great choice for homes with pets, as they offer unmatched durability and protection. These high-performance textiles are resistant to stains, odors, and moisture, making them ideal for households with multiple pets or frequent messes.
Pros: Stain-resistant, odor-resistant, and moisture-proof. Crypton’s advanced fabric technology ensures spills bead up on the surface, making it incredibly easy to clean. It also actively prevents the absorption of odors, maintaining a fresh environment.
Cons: Comes at a higher price point compared to standard fabrics.
Tips: Spot clean stains immediately to prevent long-term damage. Pair Crypton-covered furniture with washable throws for more convenience. Crypton is among the top pet-friendly fabrics for dog owners seeking a long-term solution, combining stain, odor, and moisture resistance in one package.
6. Velvet
This one is a little bit tricky because velvet fabric is a superb choice for its durability when it comes to pet-friendly fabrics; however, you’ll also have to put in a bit of extra effort for maintenance. While it does attract pet hair, its smooth surface allows fur to be easily removed with a vacuum or lint roller.
Pros: Soft and luxurious, durable, resistant to scratches. It can also be treated with stain repellents to improve cleanability.
Cons: Attracts fur and requires frequent vacuuming or lint rolling to maintain its appearance.
Tips: Choose high-quality velvet with a tight weave for better durability. Keep a lint roller handy and use protective covers in high-traffic areas. Velvet can be a great choice for pet owners who prioritize style and are willing to stay on top of regular maintenance.
Fabrics to avoid in homes with pets
We’ve just looked at the most pet-friendly fabrics, but are there any fabrics that should be avoided? The answer is yes—in general, you shouldn’t look in the direction of fabrics that are delicate, might attract pet fur easily, and are difficult to clean. Let’s examine some of these materials closer and discuss why you should avoid them.
1. Silk
While silk is a beautiful and luxurious fabric, it is also extremely delicate. It is highly susceptible to tearing, scratching, and staining, making it unsuitable for long-term everyday use if you have pets. Even minor accidents, such as a spill or claw snag, can permanently damage silk.
Why to avoid: Extremely delicate and hard to clean. Requires professional care for stains.
2. Chenille
Chenille’s textured surface makes it an impractical choice for pet owners. The fabric’s raised threads are prone to snagging, especially from claws, which can quickly ruin its appearance.
Why to avoid: Snags easily and traps fur, making it difficult to maintain.
3. Loose-weave fabrics
Loose-weave fabrics, such as linen or tweed, are poor choices for homes with pets. Their open weave traps fur and dirt, making them difficult to clean.
Why to avoid: Fur gets embedded in the fibers, and the fabric is prone to snags from claws.
Things to consider when choosing pet-friendly fabrics
Besides the fabric material, there are other general factors to help guide your decision. Durability, ease of maintenance, and thoughtful color and pattern choices all play a role in keeping your furniture looking good less stressful. With the right materials, you can create a home that’s both functional and stylish. Let’s take a closer look at each of these!
Durability
One of the most essential things to consider when choosing fabric for homes with pets. The fabric has to withstand wear and tear from claws and active play. Leather and performance fabrics are particularly good choices because they resist scratching and hold up well over time. For a cost-effective alternative, canvas also provides excellent durability while being easy to clean.
Ease of cleaning
No matter how careful you are, having pets around your furniture makes it likely that an occasional accident might happen. You also might have to perform a general cleaning more often to keep the fabric smelling fresh and vacuum away pet fur. That’s why it’s important to choose fabric that is quick and easy to clean.
Microfiber and Crypton are excellent stain-resistant options. Leather’s smooth surface also makes it easy to wipe down, while canvas slipcovers can be conveniently removed and machine-washed. Always look for materials that simplify your cleaning routine.
Color and pattern
Choosing the right color and pattern can help camouflage fur and minor stains. Mid-tone colors like gray or taupe are ideal for hiding messes, while white and black tend to highlight fur and dirt. Matching your upholstery to your dog’s fur color is also a simple way to reduce the visibility of shedding. Patterns and textures, such as tweed, herringbone, small-scale geometric designs, pinstripes, or multicolored weaves, can also disguise dirt and fur effectively.
Tips for maintaining pet-friendly furniture
Choosing the right fabric isn’t the only tool you can use to keep your furniture looking great, even with pets around. Regular cleaning, and looking after your pet’s fur and nails are just as important. Here are our favorite tips on maintaining fabric furniture for pet owners:
- Spot clean immediately. Address spills or stains as soon as they happen to prevent permanent damage.
- Use washable slipcovers. Slipcovers can protect your furniture and be easily removed for machine washing.
- Apply fabric protectors. Improve the stain and water resistance to prolong the life of your upholstery.
- Regular grooming. Keep your pet’s nails trimmed and fur brushed to reduce shedding and minimize potential scratches.
- Provide alternatives. Place pet mats or beds near your seating areas to encourage pets to rest there instead of getting on the couch.
- Vacuum regularly. Use a vacuum with a pet hair attachment to remove fur and dirt from the furniture.
- Use throws or blankets. Throw a washable blanket over your couch or armchair for extra protection.
Final verdict: What is the best fabric for furniture if you have pets?
Each fabric discussed has its own strengths, but ultimately the best choice depends on your specific needs and your dog’s habits. For easy maintenance and durability, leather and performance fabrics are top contenders. Microfiber and Crypton are ideal for stain resistance and comfort, while canvas offers an affordable and practical solution. Velvet is a wonderfully durable choice if you’re willing to vacuum more often.
Consider what price point you’re looking at, how much time you’re willing to dedicate to cleaning, and what fits your interior design the best. Throw on a blanket or use slipcovers for extra protection, keep your pet’s fur brushed and nails trimmed, and your furniture will look brand new for years to come.
FAQ
What is the best couch to avoid pet hair?
Couches with tightly woven fabrics like microfiber, leather, or Crypton are excellent choices as they resist fur buildup and are easy to clean.
What makes a fabric pet-friendly?
Pet-friendly fabrics are durable, scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean; they often have tight weaves or protective treatments to repel odors and moisture.
What is the best sofa to avoid dog smell?
Leather and Crypton sofas are ideal for avoiding dog smells because they do not absorb odors and are easy to wipe clean.
How can I make my couch pet-friendly?
Use washable slipcovers, apply fabric protectors, add pet blankets, and groom your pets regularly to reduce fur and potential damage.
