I. Introduction
A. Why Does Fabric Matter for Recliners?
There’s more to recliners than a fancy chair to relax on while watching TV or reading a book. The fabric used to upholster a recliner is a vital component in determining its durability, look, and how well it will withstand stains, wear, and tear. Many buyers overlook this fact and end up choosing the wrong fabric for their recliner. In most cases, the wrong fabric will not only make your recliner uncomfortable but will also make it prone to damage and stains. Another common mistake made by buyers is selecting the fabric based on aesthetics and ignoring other important aspects such as breathability, stain resistance, and pet friendliness.
B. Why are Recliners Unique? (Comfort, Durability, Frequent Use)
Recliners are designed for relaxation and comfort, but not all fabrics are suitable for them. When selecting fabric for your recliner, you need to consider factors such as comfort, durability, maintenance, and even temperature regulation. When you recline on your recliner, the surface material you choose can significantly impact how comfortable it feels. The texture, warmth, and breathability of the fabric are vital in determining whether the recliner will feel comfortable or not. Also, recliners are a prime seat in most homes with kids, pets, or guests, which is why the fabric needs to be durable and resistant to stains. In climates with harsh winters and scorching summers, the fabric you choose will determine whether your recliner will be cozy during winter or cool during summer.
C. What to Expect in the Article
This guide will walk you through the various fabric-related factors you need to consider when buying a recliner. We will discuss durability, comfort, maintenance, appearance, and cost. We will explain what to look for in each aspect and why it matters. By the end of this article, you will understand the best fabrics for your recliner and how to avoid the common mistakes buyers make when choosing recliner fabric.
II. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Recliner Fabric
A. Durability and Wear Resistance
1. High Usage in Living Spaces
Recliners are used in living rooms for evening TV, reading, napping, and relaxation. Recliners are the most popular seats in a house and are used frequently throughout the day. Unlike ordinary chairs and sofas, which are rarely used, a recliner is often in constant use. When you recline on your recliner, you rock back and forth, sit on it, and even stretch your legs. All these movements and physical activities can wear down the fabric faster than a sofa or an ordinary chair. If you have kids, pets, or a lot of guests, the fabric will wear out faster. Pets will use your recliner as their favorite resting spot. Children may use the recliner as a favorite hideout or hang out on it for a while. When you have kids or pets, a low-resistance fabric will quickly start showing frays, tears, and even stains.
2. Why Are High-Rub Count Fabrics Important?
When buying recliner fabric, you should always consider the fabric’s rub count. One of the technical aspects to consider when buying recliner fabric is the fabric’s rub count. You can use the “Martindale” or “Wyzenbeek” test to test the fabric’s resistance to wear. The higher the rub count, the more durable the fabric. If you want to buy a recliner for your home, choose a fabric with a rub count of at least 15,000. If you live in a house with pets, kids, or use the recliner frequently, you should choose a fabric with a rub count of 25,000 or higher. Performance fabrics made for high-traffic areas often have high rub counts and ensure that the recliner surface will hold up for many years.
Some of the high-durability fabrics for recliners include leather, faux leather, microfiber, and polyester blends. All these fabrics are designed to be tough while offering different levels of softness and comfort.
B. Comfort and Feel
1. Softness and Breathability
When buying recliner fabric, comfort is king. After all, the recliner is a place for relaxation and to wind down. What the fabric feels like against your skin determines how comfortable it will be to recline on. A recliner fabric can feel soft, silky, smooth, or plush. The softer the recliner fabric, the more relaxing it will feel. Cotton and linen are some of the softest fabrics. They are also some of the best fabrics for breathability and are perfect for people who like natural, organic textures. Microfiber is one of the softest recliner fabrics. It has a slight nap that makes it feel warm and cozy. This is why microfiber is popular in homes with kids. Velvet and chenille fabrics are plush and soft. They can feel a bit heavy and warm, especially during summer months.
Leather and faux leather are smooth and slick. Leather and faux leather fabrics feel smooth against the skin but may feel a bit sticky during summer or winter unless they are treated or covered with a throw blanket.
2. Temperature Regulation (Seasonal Comfort)
Some fabrics are better for summer and others for winter. Some fabrics can feel cold in winter but warm in summer. Some fabrics can feel hot in summer but warm in winter. Linen and cotton fabrics feel cool in summer but don’t offer much warmth in winter. On the other hand, velvet and chenille fabrics are warm and plush in winter but can feel very hot in summer.
Performance fabrics and microfibers are some of the best fabrics for temperature regulation. They tend to keep the recliner cool in summer and warm in winter. Leather, on the other hand, can get cold or hot depending on the climate and if it is treated or covered with a throw blanket. Leather may feel very hot during winter and can crack if it is not properly treated.
If you live in a place with severe weather changes, you may consider getting an all-season fabric blend or layer your recliner with throws and cushions to keep it comfortable throughout the year.
C. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
1. Stain Resistance
Stains are a common occurrence on recliners. Kids will stain them, pets will stain them, and adults will stain them. Fabric resistance is one of the main things you need to consider when buying recliner fabric. Whether the stain is accidental or intentional, the recliner fabric you choose will determine whether it is permanent or can be cleaned. Stain-resistant fabrics like Crypton and performance polyester blends are the best for households that want stain resistance. Leather is another fabric with stain resistance. Liquids like coffee, juice, and soda will stain leather, but it is easy to wipe them off without soaking into the leather. The downside is that it can develop scratches or cracks if not treated.
Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are absorbent and are not resistant to stains. Some cotton blends have stain-resistant finishes that wear off after washing. If you want stain resistance, you should choose fabrics with stain-resistant finishes.
2. Machine-Washable vs. Spot Clean Only
Not all recliner fabrics are machine-washable. You should also consider whether you want a recliner fabric that is machine-washable. Recliner fabrics with removable covers are the easiest to clean and maintain. These fabrics are often machine-washable and easy to clean at home. Most upholstered recliners do not have removable covers and require special solutions or hand cleaning. Some recliners have covers that can be removed and machine-washed. Microfiber and polyester blends are the easiest to clean. You can use water-based cleaning solutions to clean them. Velvet, chenille, and linen fabrics are delicate and require hand cleaning or professional cleaning.
If you want low-maintenance care, synthetic performance fabrics or leather are the best. Natural fabrics require more effort to maintain.
D. Aesthetic Appeal
1. Matching Home Décor Styles
Fabric can make or break your recliner’s appeal. The fabric you choose will determine how well it fits into the room’s theme. If you have a modern or minimalist theme, leather or sleek polyester blends in neutral shades are the best. For a rustic or cottage theme, choose linen, cotton, or chenille fabrics in earthy tones or light patterns. Velvet or rich woven fabrics add drama and elegance to traditional and vintage themes.
The color, weave, pattern, and fabric sheen all affect how the recliner will look in the living space.
2. Colorfastness Over Time
The color of your recliner will fade after a while. You need to choose a fabric that will not fade or discolored over time. You should choose a fabric that is UV-resistant or one that has been treated to be fade-resistant. Polyester blends, microfiber, and leather are the best fabrics for colorfastness. On the other hand, natural fabrics like cotton and linen will fade over time unless treated for lightfastness.
Consider where you will place your recliner. If it will be next to a window, choose a fabric with good colorfastness. You can also choose a recliner with UV-resistant covers or an all-season fabric.
E. Budget and Value
1. Cost Differences Across Fabrics
Your budget determines the fabric you will choose. Leather and performance fabrics are the most expensive fabrics but offer good durability and longevity. Faux leather is a cheaper alternative with similar aesthetics but a slightly lower durability rating. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen are less expensive than other fabrics but will cost you more over time due to wear and staining. Microfiber and polyester blends are affordable, comfortable, and easy to maintain. These are some of the best fabrics for a budget-conscious buyer.
Velvet and chenille are some of the most expensive fabrics. They are luxurious and beautiful but can cost you more and require extra care.
2. Long-Term Investment vs. Affordability
The fabric you choose will affect your recliner’s longevity. You should always consider the initial cost and how much maintenance you will do over time. A more expensive leather recliner will serve you for many years without costing much to maintain. A cheap cotton recliner will wear out and need reupholstering in a few years. If you want to make a long-term investment, leather or performance fabric is the best. If you want something short-term and don’t care about the cost, a cheap fabric is a good option. A cheaper fabric may not last as long as a more expensive fabric and cost you more over time.
Remember:
Cheaper fabrics may wear out faster when used regularly. The replacement cost may be higher than the price of a more expensive fabric.
III. The Best Recliner Fabrics
When choosing the perfect recliner, it’s not just about aesthetics — you want to pick a material that fits with your needs, maintenance requirements, and style. Below are the most popular recliner fabrics, listed with the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision.
A. Leather and Faux Leather
Leather is the most popular recliner fabric because of its upscale look and lasting durability. Faux leather provides a budget-friendly, animal-free alternative to leather.
Pros:
Classic Look:
Leather adds a classic, elegant feel to a room. Faux leather can emulate this look at a lower cost.
Easy to Clean:
Spills wipe right off without soaking in, making it ideal for families with kids or pets.
Durable:
Top-quality leather can last for decades with the right care. Faux leather offers a lower but still respectable durability.
Cons:
Cold in Winter, Hot in Summer:
Leather gets chilly in the winter and sweltering in the summer without climate control or layering. Faux leather has the same temperature issue.
Scratches Easily:
Both leather and faux leather are prone to scratching by pets or rough surfaces. Leather can be polished to hide scratches. Faux leather may peel or crack over time.
Best For:
Formal living rooms, homes with no sharp-toed pets, and families who want a low-maintenance recliner fabric.
B. Microfiber
Microfiber is a synthetic fabric made from extremely fine polyester fibers. Microfiber is a popular recliner fabric choice, especially in informal and family-oriented homes.
Pros:
Soft and Comfortable:
Microfiber is soft and plush, with a suede-like finish that makes it a great choice for recliners.
Affordable:
Less expensive than leather or higher-end natural fabrics, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Stain Resistant:
The tight weave resists liquids and prevents spills from soaking in. Ideal for pet- and kid-friendly households.
Cons:
Collects Lint and Pet Hair:
Microfiber is static, which means it attracts dust, lint, and pet fur, which needs to be regularly vacuumed or brushed.
Less Luxurious-Looking:
While cozy, microfiber isn’t quite as visually appealing as leather or velvet and may look too informal in formal spaces.
Best For:
Pet- and kid-friendly households, relaxation spaces, and those on a budget who want a low-maintenance option.
C. Polyester Blends
Polyester blends combine synthetic fibers with natural ones (like cotton or wool) to balance durability and comfort. Polyester blends are one of the most versatile recliner fabrics and are used in a wide range of price points.
Pros:
Durable:
Polyester adds strength to fabric blends, making them less likely to stretch, shrink, or wrinkle.
Affordable:
Less expensive than natural fabrics like linen or leather, making them a budget-friendly option.
Wide Color Options:
Available in a range of colors, patterns, and textures to match any interior design.
Cons:
Breathable:
Polyester retains heat, making recliners less comfortable in hot and humid environments.
Synthetic Feel:
Lower-quality polyester can feel stiff or artificial compared to cotton or linen.
Best For:
Those on a budget, households that need frequent reupholstery, or secondary recliners (in offices, guest rooms).
D. Cotton and Cotton Blends
Cotton has been a popular choice for upholstery for generations because of its softness and breathability.
Pros:
Breathable and Comfortable:
Cotton lets air circulate, keeping recliners cool in summer.
Natural Feel:
Soft, smooth, and skin-friendly. Great for those with sensitive skin.
Eco-Friendly:
Organic cotton is a popular choice for those with environmental concerns.
Cons:
Wrinkles Easily:
Cotton has little elasticity, so it can wrinkle or crease after use.
Stains Easily:
Cotton soaks up liquids quickly, which makes stains harder to remove without treatment.
Best For:
Casual spaces, relaxation spaces, and homes in warmer climates that need breathability.
E. Linen
Linen has a rich, textural appearance that’s a popular choice for designers and those who prefer natural materials.
Pros:
Classic Look:
Linen’s subtle weave and matte finish exude an understated elegance.
Breathable:
Linen stays cool in hot environments because of its air circulation.
Natural and Eco-Friendly:
Made from flax, linen is biodegradable and sustainable.
Cons:
Wrinkles Easily:
Linen wrinkles and creases easily, which can make recliners look less tidy.
Careful Cleaning:
Professional cleaning is needed to keep linen looking its best.
Best For:
Elegant, formal living rooms or decorative recliners that won’t be used often.
F. Chenille
Chenille is a fabric with a dense weave and plush texture that adds a cozy, luxurious feel to any recliner.
Pros:
Soft and Plush:
Chenille is soft and cushy, which adds comfort to recliners.
Luxurious Look:
The fabric’s subtle sheen and texture create depth and sophistication.
Cons:
Collects Lint and Pet Hair:
The pile is prone to attracting dust, lint, and pet fur. They need to be vacuumed or brushed regularly.
Not as Luxurious-Looking:
Chenille can look less rich and more casual compared to leather or velvet.
Best For:
Bedrooms, reading nooks, and any space that needs comfort and luxury.
G. Velvet
Velvet is one of the most luxurious recliner fabrics, known for its classic elegance and glamorous look.
Pros:
Luxurious Texture and Look:
Velvet reflects light, giving furniture a rich, high-end look.
Classic Look:
Adds instant elegance to any space, perfect for formal and luxurious interiors.
Cons:
Marks and Pressure Spots:
Velvet shows pressure marks easily, which can change its appearance over time.
Careful Maintenance:
Requires extra care to prevent crushing or matting of the pile.
Best For:
Formal living rooms, accent recliners, and design-driven spaces that need a luxurious touch.
H. Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella)
Performance fabrics are engineered for maximum durability, stain resistance, and easy maintenance.
Pros:
Ultra-Durable:
Designed to withstand heavy wear, scratches, and spills without breaking down.
Stain Resistant:
Built-in stain protection against spills, grime, and bacteria.
Great for Kids and Pets:
Perfect for families and homes with pets.
Cons:
More Expensive:
More expensive than synthetic or natural fabrics.
Less Luxurious-Looking:
Performance fabrics may sacrifice aesthetics for function and look more utilitarian.
Best For:
Families and pets, pet-friendly spaces, rental properties, and spaces that need maximum durability.
IV. The Best Recliner Fabric for Your Needs
Match your recliner’s fabric to your household’s unique needs for the best function and satisfaction.
A. For Homes with Pets
Pets, especially cats and dogs, can be rough on furniture. Scratching, shedding, and accidents can leave recliner fabric looking worse for wear.
Best For:
Microfiber:
Beads up liquids and stains. Easy to clean. Strong against claws.
Leather:
Easy to clean. Resists odors. Susceptible to scratching (conditioning helps).
Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella):
Best at resisting stains, moisture, and claws.
Not for:
Chenille and velvet (easy to snag and mark).
B. For Households with Kids
Kids can leave behind spills, marker stains, and rough use. Durability and easy cleaning are important.
Best For:
Polyester Blends:
Budget-friendly. Many colors. Stain resistant. Great for active homes.
Microfiber:
Spills bead up. Kid-friendly softness. Durability.
Performance Fabrics:
Maximum stain protection. No worries about juice or crayon accidents.
Not for:
Linen (hard to clean) and delicate cotton blends (stain prone).
C. For Elegant Living Rooms
Formal or showcase living rooms need an attractive, refined upholstery that adds elegance to the space.
Best For:
Leather:
Sleek, timeless elegance. Perfect for upscale interiors.
Velvet:
Rich texture and depth. Perfect for luxurious spaces.
Linen:
Classic look with natural charm.
Not for:
Microfiber and polyester blends (too casual and plain).
D. For Casual or Relaxation Spaces
Recliners used for reading corners, home theaters, or casual family spaces need comfort and warmth.
Best For:
Chenille:
Soft and plush. Inviting. Great for long lounging sessions.
Cotton Blends:
Breathable. Natural feel. Comfortable.
Not for:
Leather (feels cold and sticky) and velvet (too formal).
V. Recliner Fabric Care: What Not to Do and Why
You have probably invested in the best recliner for your home. The fact that it has lasted through years of use is a testament to its durability. You may not realize that even the best quality fabric can wear out prematurely if not properly cared for. In addition to looking fresh and protecting your investment, proper care can extend the life of your recliner and save you from the cost and trouble of early reupholstery or replacement.
Read on for important maintenance tips every recliner owner should know to protect their fabric investment.
A. Vacuuming and Spot Cleaning
Daily or weekly vacuuming and immediate spot cleaning is one of the best things you can do for your recliner fabric. Dust, dirt, and food particles that get into the fabric can cause friction and abrasion, leading to premature fabric wear.
1. Vacuuming
Why It’s Important:
Even invisible dust particles cause wear and tear over time. Pet hair, skin oils, and airborne particles can work their way deep into the weave and cause discoloration and fabric fatigue.
How Often:
Weekly vacuuming is recommended, especially in high-use areas such as the seat, armrests, and headrest.
What Tools to Use:
Vacuum using a soft brush attachment or upholstery tool to prevent scratching or pulling delicate fibers.
2. Spot Cleaning
Why It’s Important:
Acting fast is key to spot cleaning. Blotting liquids immediately after a spill prevents the stain from sinking into the fabric. Always blot gently – never rub – as rubbing drives the stain deeper and can ruin the weave.
What to Use:
For synthetic materials such as microfiber or polyester blends, a water-based cleaner or mild soap solution is usually safe. For natural materials such as cotton, linen, or specialty fabrics (such as velvet or chenille), you may need a specialty cleaner or to consult a professional.
Test It:
Before cleaning, test any product on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t alter color or damage the fabric.
B. Using Fabric Protectors or Slipcovers
Prevention is just as important as cleaning. Here are a couple of preventative measures to protect your recliner fabric.
1. Fabric Protectors
What They Do:
Fabric protectors such as Scotchgard or professional fabric treatments create a barrier that keeps moisture and stain from soaking in and setting.
How to Use Them:
Apply in a well-ventilated area. Follow the directions closely – overuse can lead to stiffness or build-up.
Performance Fabrics:
Some recliners are designed with performance treatments (such as Crypton) built in. Always check with your manufacturer before using additional protectors.
2. Slipcovers
Why Use Slipcovers:
Slipcovers are a second line of defense for recliners, especially for families with pets or young children. They are easy to remove and wash in the machine.
What They Look Like:
Today’s slipcovers are designed to be attractive and complement your room décor. Avoid the “covered furniture” look of yesteryear.
Custom vs. Universal:
Custom-made slipcovers offer a cleaner look, but are often more expensive; universal slipcovers are inexpensive and easy to change out when you want a different look.
C. Sunlight
What Causes Damage:
Sunlight is the enemy of fabric recliners. Even the best recliner fabric wears out quickly if left in the path of direct sunlight.
What It Does:
Direct sunlight fades colors and breaks down fibers, leaving ugly white spots and streaks.
How to Prevent It:
Place recliners away from large windows, glass doors, and skylights.
How to Prevent It:
Use UV-filtering window films, blinds, or curtains to block direct sunlight.
Special Case:
Rotate Cushions:
If your recliner has removable cushions or pads, rotate them periodically to avoid uneven wear and exposure.
What to Know:
Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Microfiber):
Generally less susceptible to fading but not immune.
What to Know:
Natural Fibers (Cotton, Linen):
More prone to fading and discoloration; take precautions.
What to Know:
Leather:
Dries out and cracks if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time; use conditioners to help maintain suppleness.
D. Following Manufacturer Care Instructions
Why They’re Important:
Manufacturer’s instructions on your recliner model and fabric are an important source of care information. Following these instructions can keep you from voiding your warranty or permanently damaging your fabric.
Why They’re Important:
Some recliners come with a special treatment to the fabric to help it resist stains and wear. Use the wrong cleaning product or method and you may void the warranty.
What to Know:
If the Care Instructions Matter:
Some recliners have a fabric code (W, S, WS, X) on the care label that shows the safe cleaning methods:
W = Water-based cleaner only
S = Solvent-based cleaner only
WS = Water or solvent cleaner
X = Vacuum or brush only (no liquids)
What to Know:
Some recliners come with a warranty that requires you to have the recliner professionally cleaned or that you can’t use over-the-counter cleaners.
When to Call a Professional:
When there’s a stubborn stain, heavy soiling, or delicate material (such as velvet or silk blends), it’s best to have the recliner professionally cleaned to avoid accidental damage.
VI. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Recliner Fabric
Many shoppers who buy recliner fabric make choices based on style alone without considering the realities of their lifestyle and preferences. The result is dissatisfaction, premature wear, and extra expense.
Here are the most common mistakes to avoid:
A. Prioritizing Style Over Durability
Why It’s a Mistake:
Many shoppers choose fabric based on appearance alone, without considering function. For example, a recliner upholstered in delicate silk may look beautiful but is likely to wear quickly in a family room.
How to Avoid It:
Balance style with practicality. Choose fabrics that look great and are durable, especially if you use the recliner often. Performance fabrics, high-quality leather, and heavy-duty polyester blends often look great and are durable.
Why It’s a Mistake:
You end up with a beautiful white linen recliner in your living room, only to be distressed by food stains and pet paw prints. With a little forethought, you could have chosen a stain-resistant microfiber with a similar color and avoided the problem.
B. Ignoring Maintenance Requirements
Why It’s a Mistake:
Some fabrics look beautiful and feel luxurious, but require careful care and maintenance. Velvet and chenille, for example, need careful cleaning and frequent brushing to avoid matting and pressure marks. Leather requires conditioning to prevent drying and cracking.
How to Avoid It:
Before choosing fabric, think about how much maintenance you are willing to provide. If you’re a busy family with children or pets, low-maintenance microfiber or performance fabrics may be your best choice. If you’re looking for a formal living room recliner, consider higher-care fabrics such as velvet or linen.
Why It’s a Mistake:
You love the luxurious look of velvet, but you soon tire of water spots and frequent vacuuming. A textured polyester blend would have given you the same look without the maintenance.
C. Overlooking Comfort in Favor of Looks
Why It’s a Mistake:
Sometimes shoppers choose the fabric based on how it looks rather than how it feels. Leather, for example, is sleek and high-end but may feel sticky and cold in different climates. Linen may feel rough against delicate skin.
How to Avoid It:
Test the recliner or feel fabric samples before buying. Comfort is key – especially for a recliner meant for relaxation or napping. Take climate, clothing preferences (shorts or long pants), and skin sensitivity into account when choosing texture.
Why It’s a Mistake:
You choose faux leather for its modern look, but find you slide off the seat and hate the cold feel in winter. Microfiber would have given you a warmer, stickier, and more comfortable seating experience.
D. Not Considering Household Lifestyle (Pets, Kids, Climate)
Why It’s a Mistake:
The fabric that looks great in your single professional’s modern loft may look terrible in a home with toddlers and pets. Similarly, the fabric that works well in a dry climate may not work in a humid or coastal home.
How to Avoid It:
Think about how you live when choosing fabric:
Pets:
Choose scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean materials such as leather or performance fabrics.
Kids:
Choose stain-resistant and durable microfiber or polyester blends.
Hot climate:
Choose breathable cotton or linen to keep seating cool.
Cold climate:
Choose plush chenille or velvet for cozy warmth.
Why It’s a Mistake:
You choose chenille for its softness, but regret it when your cat claws keep getting caught in the loops. A smooth performance fabric would have withstood pet wear better.
VII.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I. About Recliner Fabrics
The recliner isn’t just a chair. It’s a refuge, a shelter, a space of comfort. And when it comes to choosing the right fabric for that refuge, people have questions. The right fabric can keep your recliner looking good, feeling good, and lasting longer. Below are the most frequently asked questions about recliner fabrics.
I. What’s the most durable recliner fabric?
Leather, faux leather, microfiber, and performance fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella) are among the most durable.
Leather
Leather can’t be beat for durability. Full-grain and top-grain leathers can resist tears, pulls, and daily wear better than most fabrics. With care, leather recliners can last decades. Leather also resists most spills and allergens.
Microfiber
Synthetic fibers are woven into microfiber fabrics. Microfiber is tightly woven, which gives it strength against ripping, stretching, and pilling. Microfiber also resists staining and is popular in homes with kids and pets. Microfiber is less durable than top-grade leather, but less expensive.
Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella)
Crypton, Sunbrella, and other performance fabrics are engineered for strength and durability. They resist most stains and spills and can withstand even the toughest environments. They’re among the most durable fabrics on the market. They’re also a great choice for active families and homes with pets.
Polyester Blends
Polyester blends resist tearing, pilling, and abrasion, which makes them a durable fabric. High-quality polyester blends are durable enough to last in everyday use, especially when blended with synthetic or natural fibers.
For durability and longevity, choose leather or performance fabrics. Microfiber and polyester blends are also among the most durable recliner fabrics.
II. Are leather recliners worth the investment?
For most homeowners, it comes down to whether leather recliners are worth the money.
Is leather recliner worth it?
Most of the time, the answer is yes. If you’re willing to pay a little more, leather recliners have several benefits:
Leather recliners are durable. Genuine leather lasts longer than most fabrics. Top-grain or full-grain leather recliners can last 15–20 years with proper care.
Leather recliners look good. Genuine leather has a classic look that goes with most décor. It’s also available in several finishes and shades.
Leather recliners are easy to clean. Leather doesn’t stain easily. Most stains just wipe right off with a damp cloth. A leather conditioner can also be applied to keep the leather from drying out.
Leather recliners are hypoallergenic. Leather doesn’t harbor allergens like pet dander, dust mites, or other allergens. So leather recliners tend to be hypoallergenic.
Drawbacks to Leather Recliners
Cost:
Genuine leather recliners tend to cost more than fabric recliners.
Sensitivity to temperature:
Leather is sensitive to heat and cold. Without an electric blanket or throw, leather can feel cold in the winter and sticky or hot in the summer.
Scratches:
Leather can be scratched. Pets can scratch leather. People can scratch leather with pens, keys, and other objects.
Conclusion:
Leather recliners are worth the money if you value durability, comfort, and ease of maintenance. If you want similar benefits at a lower cost, consider faux leather or performance fabric.
III. Can I reupholster a recliner?
Yes. Reupholstering is a great way to restore a worn-out recliner or revamp an old recliner without buying a new one. You can even reupholster the recliner in a new fabric to match your décor.
Here are the benefits of reupholstering:
You can choose your own fabric. You can pick any fabric you want. That’s the biggest benefit of reupholstering. With a new fabric, you can choose performance fabric for durability or velvet for luxury.
Reupholstering is environmentally friendly. It’s better for the environment than getting rid of a recliner and buying a new one.
Reupholstering is usually less expensive. It depends on the fabric and work involved. If you have the recliner frame and mechanics in good condition, it can be less expensive than buying a new high-end recliner.
Drawbacks to Reupholstering
Your recliner’s frame and mechanics must be in good condition. If the frame and mechanics are damaged, you may need to replace the whole recliner.
Upholstering a recliner is difficult. You need to deal with recliner mechanics and reassemble the recliner. Most recliners are upholstered by professionals, which adds to the cost.
Some fabrics don’t reupholster well. Microfiber and leather tend to hold up well to reupholstering. Velvets and other loosely woven fabrics are harder to reupholster.
Conclusion:
Reupholstering a recliner is possible. It can be a good investment if you want to preserve a sentimental recliner or one with good value.
IV. What’s the best fabric for hot climates?
A. If you live in a warm climate, choosing the right recliner fabric is crucial.
Warm weather means different fabrics have different benefits. Here are some of the fabrics to consider:
Linen
Linen is a natural fiber that breathes well. It allows air to circulate, which helps keep the chair from overheating. Linen is light and delicate, which is why it’s a popular fabric for the tropics and desert climates.
Cotton
Cotton is soft, absorbs moisture, and feels cool on the skin. Cotton blends are also a good choice. As long as they’re made from natural cotton and aren’t overloaded with synthetic fibers.
Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella)
Crypton, Sunbrella, and other performance fabrics are made for outdoor use. They’re designed to resist heat and sun. So they’re a good choice for homes in hot, sunny climates. That includes indoors as well.
Microfiber
Microfiber is synthetic, but it breathes enough for indoor use in warm climates. It’s still less breathable than linen or cotton.
Leather/Faux Leather
Leather and faux leather are warmer than microfiber. Leather can become sticky in hot, humid climates. A temperature-controlled recliner or throw can help prevent leather recliners from overheating.
Chenille
Chenille is thick and can retain heat. Chenille can be warm in a hot climate. If you’re willing to accept the heat, velvet can look great in a warm room.
Conclusion:
For hot climates, linen, cotton, or performance fabrics offer the best combination of breathability and comfort.
V. How can I protect recliner fabric from stains?
Recliners are subject to spills, daily dirt, and other contaminants. Taking care of your recliner fabric can extend its life and keep it looking good.
Here are some ways to protect your recliner fabric:
Use Fabric Protectors
Spray or rub on protective coatings like Scotchgard or factory treatments. It’ll help protect the fabric from stains.
Spray or rub on protective coatings periodically to keep the fabric protected.
Put on a slipcover
A machine-washable slipcover is an easy way to keep recliner fabric clean. You can get slipcovers in several styles. Some even match your décor.
Regularly Clean
Vacuum, wipe, and treat stains as soon as they happen. That way, you can stop dirt and stains from settling into the fabric.
Use manufacturers’ approved cleaning solutions or a professional cleaner for tough stains.
Mind Your Placement
Keep food and drinks away from the recliner as much as possible. Try to keep spills from reaching the recliner.
Use Throws and Armrest Covers
These accessories can catch spills or absorb oils and grime before they reach the recliner.
Conclusion: With the right care and cleaning, you can keep recliner fabric looking good.
VIII. Final Thoughts
We’ve come to the end of this comprehensive guide to recliner fabrics. Let’s review some of the main points we’ve discussed. We’ll start with a quick summary of the fabrics that are the most durable and versatile:
Leather and Faux Leather:
Durable, attractive, and easy to clean. They can be a little cold or hot in some climates.
Microfiber:
Soft, affordable, stain-resistant, and popular in homes with kids and pets.
Polyester Blends:
Durable, relatively affordable, and easy to clean. Not as durable or breathable as other fabrics.
Cotton and Cotton Blends:
Soft, absorbent, and breathable. Wrinkles easily and stains well.
Linen:
Lightweight, attractive, and airy. Good for low-use or formal spaces.
Chenille:
Thick and plush. Attractive in formal spaces.
Velvet:
Thick and plush. Attractive and formal.
Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella):
Very durable and stain-resistant. Designed for outdoor use.
Here are some of the points to consider when choosing the right recliner fabric:
Comfort:
Will you be comfortable sitting on it for hours?
Durability:
Will the fabric last for years of use?
Maintenance:
Are you willing to care for the fabric?
Style:
Does the fabric match your décor?
Find the right balance between these four factors. When you do, you’ll end up with a recliner that looks and works well for years to come.
For example:
A formal recliner that’s rarely used in a study might be velvet or linen.
A recliner used in a family room with kids and pets might need a durable fabric like microfiber or performance fabric.
Every home is different. A balanced approach is key to satisfaction and longevity.
Choose the recliner fabric that’s right for you
Ultimately, the right recliner fabric is the one that’s right for you. There’s no such thing as the “best” recliner fabric. Only the best for you.
Ask yourself:
Do you entertain often?
An elegant fabric might be right.
Do you have kids or pets?
Resistant to stains and damage might be important.
Is comfort your top priority?
Look for softness and breathability.
Do you want low-maintenance furniture?
Choose easy-to-clean synthetics or leather.
The right recliner fabric is the one that works for you.
