Category: Fabrics and care

Family sofas lead a hard life. Between snacks, spills, school uniforms and the dog that’s definitely not allowed on the furniture, the fabric you choose makes a huge difference to how your sofa looks in a year’s time.

What to look for

• A tight weave that claws and toys can’t easily snag
• An easy-clean or stain-resistant finish
• Removable, washable covers, so you can deal with accidents properly
• A colour or pattern that hides the odd mark

Fabrics that cope well

Faux leather

Wipe-clean and hair-resistant, faux leather is a favourite in busy homes. Spills sit on the surface long enough to wipe away. The trade-off is that sharp claws can scratch it, and it can feel cool in winter and warm in summer.

Tight-weave fabrics and easy-clean finishes

Fabrics with a tight, flat weave resist snagging and pet hair better than loose, textured ones. Many modern sofas use easy-clean fabric that lets you blot spills with a damp cloth.

Velvet (yes, really)

It sounds unlikely, but a good-quality velvet has no loops for claws to catch on, and pet hair brushes off fairly easily. Choose a darker or mid-tone colour and it’ll hide a lot.

Corduroy and jumbo cord

Jumbo cord is soft, cosy and forgiving, and its texture hides wear well. It’s a popular choice for family recliners and corner sofas.

Fabrics to think twice about

• Loose weaves and boucle, which can snag on claws
• Pale linen or cotton without removable covers
• Delicate silks and anything marked dry-clean only

Washable covers are a game changer

A sofa with removable, washable covers means you can deal with accidents properly rather than just dabbing at them. If your sofa doesn’t have them, a fitted stretch cover or a good throw is the next best thing, and a lot cheaper than a new sofa.

A family-friendly sofa pick

If you’re buying new, look for removable covers on the listing. This jumbo cord sofa has removable, washable covers and a sturdy frame.

Quick care tips

• Blot spills straight away. Don’t rub, as it spreads the stain
• Vacuum weekly with an upholstery tool to lift hair and crumbs
• Rotate and plump seat cushions so they wear evenly
• Keep a throw on the dog’s favourite spot

Browse our sofa covers and throws for quick fixes, or our 3 seater sofas for a fresh start.