The best sofa fabrics for kids and pets

Sticky fingers, muddy paws and the odd spilt drink. These are the sofa fabrics that cope, and the ones to avoid.

11 November 2026

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.