How to choose fabric for a sofa?

The fabric of a sofa is about more than just its appearance. It determines durability, comfort, maintenance, and how well it complements your interior. When choosing a sofa, it’s worth thinking not only about colour but also about fabric type, texture, and practical qualities – especially if the sofa will be used every day.

Durability and maintenance – the key factors

When choosing sofa fabric, the most important thing to consider is how often and under what conditions it will be used. If you have children or pets, look for materials that resist abrasion, moisture, and stains, are easy to clean, and don’t pill.

The durability of a fabric – known as wear resistance – is measured using the internationally recognised Martindale test. In this test, the fabric is rubbed in a circular motion until at least two threads break. The results are given in cycles: the higher the number, the more durable the fabric.

For guidance:

• 10,000–15,000 cycles – suitable for furniture that’s rarely used.
• 15,000–25,000 cycles – the best choice for everyday use.
• Over 25,000 cycles – ideal for heavily used furniture or homes with children and pets.

It’s also worth checking other resistance ratings:

• Light resistance test – measures fading from UV rays, rated 1 to 8 (higher is better).
• Pilling test – measures how likely a fabric is to pill, rated 1 to 5.
• Fire resistance test (“Cigarette test”) – the fabric is considered fire-resistant if it doesn’t ignite from a smouldering cigarette within 8–10 seconds.
• PetProof fabrics – resistant to scratches, animal hair, and easy to clean.

Commonly used sofa materials

Tapestry – a versatile and popular choice that comes in many textures, from smooth and classic to modern boucle or velvet. It’s soft, warm, and durable – ideal for everyday use and easy to maintain.

Eco leather – a synthetic alternative to genuine leather. It looks elegant, is moisture- and stain-resistant, and easy to clean. A great choice for modern or practical interiors.

Genuine leather – durable and luxurious, with timeless appeal. It’s perfect for those who value quality and don’t mind giving it a bit of extra care.

Eco leather + tapestry – a combination that blends style and comfort. Typically, the sofa sides are made from eco leather, while the seating area features soft tapestry – offering both elegance and warmth.

Trendy options – velvet, boucle, and teddy

If you want a cosy and stylish sofa, consider one of the current on-trend fabrics:

• Velvet – a luxurious, soft fabric that brings richness to any interior. It’s lovely to touch but can attract pet hair more easily.
• Boucle – a looped, textured fabric that adds warmth and character. Perfect for Scandinavian and contemporary homes.
• Teddy – a fluffy, plush fabric that creates a cosy, inviting feel. Ideal for relaxation areas or family rooms.

Colour and texture – matching your interior

When choosing a color, consider the size of the room, the amount of light, and the furniture you already have. Light shades increase the feeling of space, while dark shades create a cozy and sophisticated impression. Patterned or textured fabrics can be more practical - they hide stains or wear more easily.

Comfort is more than just sitting

Different fabrics feel different to the touch. Tapestry is soft and warm, leather feels smooth but cooler, and velvet or teddy fabrics offer a deep sense of comfort but may need extra care.

Before choosing fabric in our online shop

• Furniture can only be ordered in fabrics listed on the product page.
• Fabric colours may vary slightly due to monitor settings.
• Want to see furniture made in your chosen fabric? Simply enter the fabric name into the shop’s search bar and browse matching pieces.

When choosing fabric for your sofa, think about your family’s lifestyle, your home’s interior style, and the practicality of each material. Visit our sofa category to explore a wide range of fabrics and styles designed to suit every home and need.