Pet upholstery is one of the biggest considerations for anyone who shares their home with a furry friend.
Anyone who shares their home with a pet knows the sofa is never truly their own.
Dogs curl up for naps, cats claim a spot on the armrest, and sometimes a “favourite chair” becomes your pet’s personal throne to watch the world go by.
While these moments are heart-warming, they also put your furniture to the test.
Claws, paws, fur, and even the occasional accident can turn that gorgeous showroom fabric into a source of frustration.
It’s easy to be tempted by looks alone, but when you live with animals, choosing upholstery goes beyond design — it’s about durability, cleanability, and comfort for both you and your furry companions.
The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice style for practicality. By selecting the right upholstery fabrics, you can enjoy furniture that looks beautiful, withstands everyday wear, and stays pet-friendly for years to come.
What is the Best Pet Upholstery to Have When You Own a Pet?
1. Microfibre
Microfibre is one of the most popular pet upholstery choices for pet owners. Made from tightly woven synthetic fibres, it is highly resistant to scratching, and fur doesn’t easily get trapped in the fabric.
Its stain-resistant properties also make it easy to maintain, as liquids tend to bead on the surface, giving you time to wipe them away before they soak in.
The only drawback is that microfibre can attract dust and lint, so regular vacuuming helps keep it looking fresh.
2. Leather and Faux Leather
Leather and faux leather are also excellent pet upholstery options. Their smooth surfaces make cleaning simple; pet hair, dirt, and spills can usually be wiped away with a damp cloth or quickly vacuumed.
Leather, in particular, is incredibly durable and can last for years, even in busy households.
However, leather is not entirely immune to claw marks, which can leave visible scratches. High-quality, top-grain leather tends to be more resistant than faux leather, but it comes with a higher price tag.
3. Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics are another strong contender for pet upholstery. These engineered fabrics, like those from Sunbrella and Crypton, are specifically designed to withstand heavy use.
They repel stains, resist odours, and are easy to clean, making them ideal for homes with both pets and children.
While performance fabrics are more expensive than standard upholstery materials, their resilience and longevity often make them a worthwhile investment.
4. Canvas and Denim
For those who prefer a more casual and practical look, canvas and denim are durable options that can take a beating.
These tightly woven fabrics resist scratches and general wear, making them reliable choices for pet owners.
Canvas slipcovers are especially convenient since they can be removed and machine-washed whenever needed.
The trade-off is that they may not feel as soft or luxurious as other fabrics, but their practicality and toughness make up for it.
Read more: Pet-Proof Your Home: Pet Furniture Cover for Pet Owners
How to Extend the Life of Your Sofa Fabric When You Have a Pet
Living with pets often means sharing your sofa with them too. While this adds warmth and comfort to your home, it can also lead to extra wear on your upholstery.
The good news is that with a few smart habits and preventative measures, you can protect your furniture and keep it looking good for years.
1. Regular Cleaning
Pet hair, dander, and dust build up quickly on sofa fabrics. Vacuuming at least once a week helps prevent these particles from embedding deeply into the material.
For everyday upkeep, lint rollers and pet-specific upholstery brushes make it easy to remove fur and keep your sofa fresh.
2. Protective Covers and Throws
One of the simplest ways to protect your sofa is to use washable slipcovers or throws. Place them where your pet likes to lounge, and they’ll absorb most of the wear and tear.
Rotating or swapping out these covers often helps them wear evenly and ensures your sofa fabric underneath stays in excellent condition.
3. Nail Care and Alternatives
Scratches and snags are common when pets jump on sofas. Trimming your pet’s nails regularly reduces the risk of damage.
Providing alternatives, such as scratching posts for cats or designated pet beds, also discourages them from using your sofa as their personal lounge spot.
4. Immediate Stain Treatment
Accidents are bound to happen, but treating them quickly makes a big difference. Blot any spills immediately with a clean cloth, and use a pet-safe upholstery cleaner to tackle stains before they set in.
For stubborn marks or odours, professional upholstery cleaning once or twice a year will refresh the fabric and extend its lifespan.
Read more: Clean Fabric 101: Proven Methods for Upholstery Care
Love Your Pets and Your Sofa with Kintex
Your pets deserve comfort, and so does your furniture. Fabrics like microfibre, leather, and performance textiles give you the durability you need while keeping your home stylish.
When paired with simple maintenance, they transform your living space into one that’s beautiful, resilient, and truly pet-ready.
Make your home both practical and elegant with fabrics designed for life with pets. Kintex, Malaysia’s trusted sofa fabric supplier, offers a wide range of options to suit every style.
Explore our collection today and find the fabric that’s right for you.
