Fabric Armchairs
Fabric Armchairs
With so many fabric armchairs on the market, it's important to know what factors to consider and familiarise yourself with the most popular upholstery materials. From durability and comfort to style and maintenance, understanding these key aspects will help you choose the perfect armchair to suit your needs and lifestyle.
What factors to keep in mind when buying a fabric armchair?
Maintenance level and durability
A low-maintenance and durable armchair is essential if you want it to stand the test of time. For maximum durability, opt for upholstery made from wear-resistant materials like corduroy or chenille, which can handle years of use without losing their charm. If easy maintenance is your priority, polyester is an excellent choice, as it’s both stain-resistant and simple to clean.
Purpose
Choose an armchair that complements your lifestyle and meets your needs. For everyday use, go for low-maintenance fabrics that are easy to clean, ensuring they withstand daily wear. If your armchair is meant to stand out as an accent piece, consider shiny velvet upholstery for a luxurious look. To ensure maximum comfort, look for features like padded armrests, ergonomic shapes, or added support for a relaxing experience.
What upholstery fabrics are there?
Velvet
With its smooth, shiny texture, velvet is perfect for adding elegance and luxury to any interior. It’s a great choice for standout furniture that catches the eye and brings a sophisticated look to any home. While velvet is less suited for everyday use, it serves best as a stylish statement piece for a dining area or as a comfortable accent in a living room, perfect for occasional relaxation.
Boucle
Boucle is a definition of cosiness. The material is great for adding warmth with its plush texture that enhances comfort. Boucle-upholstered armchairs, usually available in soft, neutral tones are a perfect fit, especially for living rooms or bedrooms in diversified styles.
Corduroy
Corduroy is a perfect choice if you are looking for a durable upholstery option. This material is warm and incredibly robust, making it ideal for furniture that sees daily use. Armchairs upholstered in corduroy are designed to stand the test of time, maintaining their texture and shape for years to come.
Chenille
Chenille fabric is a combination of durability and elegance. Its velvety texture and subtle sheen aren’t only stylish but also warm, easy to maintain and wear-resistant, which makes it perfect for everyday use.
Linen and faux linen
Faux linen is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easy to maintain, perfect for busy households. Linen, made from natural flax fibres, is breathable, moisture-wicking, and ideal for warm climates. Both offer a timeless, textured look, with faux linen being budget-friendly and linen adding eco-friendly luxury that softens beautifully over time.
Polyester
Polyester upholstery is highly durable and ideal for daily use. Its stain-resistant properties make cleaning up spills quick and easy. Fade-resistant, it retains its vibrant colours over time, ensuring a long-lasting look. Available in a wide range of colours and textures, polyester offers both comfort and versatility to complement any interior style. Moreover, it is an affordable option, delivering high quality at a budget-friendly price.
How to maintain fabric armchairs?
Regular cleaning
- Vacuuming: Use an upholstery attachment to remove dust and crumbs from the surface and crevices.
- Spot cleaning: Address spills immediately with a clean cloth. Gently dab (avoid rubbing) to absorb the liquid. For stains, follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions or use a fabric-safe cleaner.
- Deep cleaning: Periodically shampoo the upholstery or use a steam cleaner if the fabric allows it.
Prevent wear and tear
- Cushion rotation: Regularly rotate cushions to ensure even wear.
- Protect from sunlight: Keep the armchair away from direct sunlight to prevent fabric fading. Use curtains or blinds for additional protection.
Use protective measures
- Fabric protector: Apply a spray-on fabric protector to guard against stains and spills (check compatibility with your fabric).
- Covers and throws: To protect the fabric from dirt, wear, and spills, use washable covers or decorative throws.