Upholstery Fabrics

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Understanding Upholstery Fabric Types

Upholstered furniture is made from a wide range of materials, each with its own texture, construction, and cleaning requirements. Some fabrics are durable and easy to maintain, while others are delicate, absorbent, or sensitive to moisture and cleaning agents. Below is an overview of common upholstery fabrics and explains why proper identification is essential for safe and effective cleaning.

Woman sitting on a modern chair in workshop.

Polyester Upholstery

Polyester is one of the most common upholstery fabrics found in modern homes due to its durability, stain resistance, and ability to maintain color over time. Because polyester is a synthetic fiber, it responds well to professional cleaning when the correct water temperature and agitation levels are used.

Microfiber Upholstery

(Micro-Polyester)

Microfiber is a tightly woven polyester-based fabric known for its ability to repel spills and resist staining. Its soft, suede-like texture makes it popular for family rooms and high-use furniture.

Cotton Upholstery

Cotton is a natural, breathable fabric valued for comfort and softness. It absorbs moisture easily and may show wear sooner than synthetics, which is why cleaning methods must be gentle and fiber-safe.

Linen Upholstery

Linen offers a refined, natural look with a smooth texture and crisp appearance. It is prone to wrinkling and requires low-moisture, careful cleaning to maintain its structure.

Wool Upholstery

Wool is naturally resilient, flame resistant, and excellent at regulating temperature. It is durable but sensitive to high heat and aggressive cleaning, requiring controlled moisture and specialized techniques.

Silk Upholstery

Silk is elegant and delicate, offering a smooth, lustrous appearance. It is highly sensitive to moisture and must be cleaned using very low-moisture, gentle methods to avoid water marks or fiber distortion.

Rayon and Viscose Upholstery

Rayon and viscose blends mimic the look of silk or linen but are far more fragile. They tend to weaken when wet and require specialized low-moisture dry cleaning techniques.

Chenille Upholstery

Chenille features a soft, plush texture created by its tufted yarns. While comfortable, the raised fibers can trap soils easily and benefit from periodic professional cleaning.

Velvet Upholstery

Velvet provides a rich, smooth pile that reflects light beautifully. Whether synthetic or natural, velvet requires careful grooming and controlled moisture to maintain its pile direction and sheen.