Fabric That Fits

Whether you’re on the market for a new sofa, or looking to reupholster, we help break down the fibre and match the right fabric to your needs.

- Leanda Rathmell

A smart approach when selecting fabric for your sofa is to match it to your lifestyle first, then your budget. Your sofa’s lifespan – and therefore your return of investment – is very much determined by how suitable the sofa is for your situation. Those in one- or two-tenant households or whose sofa is in a low-traffic room such as a home office can often afford to opt for more delicate fabrics like velvet or silk. A household with children, pets or frequent guests will require a more resilient, durable and easy-to-clean fabric. We take a look at three popular fabrics and some smart alternatives.

COTTON

Popular for its versatility, soft touch and easycare character, cotton is breathable and ideal for Singapore’s hot and humid climate. Cotton upholstered sofas usually come with removable covers that are machine-washable, making them a great choice for frequent spills and high-traffic areas like your living room.

A downside? Cotton is prone to wrinkles and isn’t very stain-resistant. If you’re looking for a more durable option, find a fabric that’s a majority cotton blend with a small percentage of synthetic fabric to keep its clean shape. For example, these classic designs from Scanteak use a mix of cotton, polyester and polypropylene. Polyester is less absorbent and retains its shape, making it more sturdy and stain-resistant. Meanwhile, the cotton component keeps the fabric more breathable compared to pure polyester products. Couple this with a solid wood, low-maintenance frame and you have a sofa that will withstand the elements.

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