Fabric Guide: Choosing & Caring for Upholstery
The right fabric makes the piece.
Fabric affects how a couch or headboard looks, feels and ages in your home. These are the fabric types used across our current range, with honest pros, cons and general care advice. Availability depends on the design, so check each listing.
At a glance
| Fabric | Feel | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Velvet | Soft, rich, with a gentle sheen | Statement couches, headboards, accent chairs | Shows pressure marks and pet hair; needs regular brushing |
| Bouclé | Looped, textured, cosy | Curved couches, accent and dining chairs | Loops can snag on claws, jewellery and Velcro |
| Linen & linen-look | Matte, natural, relaxed | Living rooms with a calm, natural palette | Creases naturally; lighter shades show marks |
| Corduroy | Ribbed, soft, hard-wearing | Family couches and headboards | Ribs can flatten in high-use spots over time |
| Leather & leather-look | Smooth, easy to wipe | Office chairs, bar stools, dining chairs, couches | Can scratch; avoid direct sun and heat |
| Sherpa / teddy | Fluffy, warm, tactile | Dining and accent chairs | Can mat with heavy use; brush to refresh |
Velvet
Pros: deep, rich colour and a luxurious feel; a closely woven velvet is comfortable and dresses up any room. Cons: the pile can crush or show “shading” where you sit, and it attracts lint. Care: vacuum with a soft brush attachment, brush the pile in one direction, and blot spills straight away — never rub.
Bouclé
Pros: beautiful texture, hides minor marks well and feels warm and inviting. Cons: loops can catch on pets’ claws or sharp objects. Care: vacuum gently on low suction; if a loop pulls, trim it carefully rather than pulling it.
Linen and linen-look
Pros: breathable, natural and understated; suits light, airy rooms. Cons: creases are part of the look; pale shades show spills. Care: vacuum regularly, blot spills with a clean damp cloth, and keep out of strong direct sun to limit fading.
Corduroy
Pros: soft, durable and forgiving — a good family choice. Cons: the ribs can flatten in favourite seats. Care: brush along the ribs and vacuum with a soft attachment; plump and rotate cushions to spread wear.
Leather and leather-look
Pros: easy to wipe clean and practical for offices, dining and bar seating. Cons: can scratch, and heat or sun can dry or fade the surface. Care: wipe with a soft, slightly damp cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, and keep away from heaters and direct sun. Each listing states the material used.
Sherpa and teddy
Pros: very soft and cosy, with a modern look. Cons: the pile can mat in high-use areas. Care: vacuum lightly and brush to lift the pile.
General care for all fabrics
- Vacuum upholstery every week or two with a soft brush attachment.
- Blot spills immediately with a clean, damp cloth — don’t rub.
- Test any cleaner on a hidden spot first.
- Rotate and plump cushions to spread wear evenly.
- Keep pieces out of strong direct sunlight to reduce fading.
See the fabric before you choose
Colours look different on screen. WhatsApp us on 063 120 3728 for fabric swatches, close-up photos or videos before you order. Made-to-order couches and headboards can be upholstered in your chosen fabric and colour.
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