Understanding Upholstery: Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Lifestyle

When it comes to buying a new sofa, chair, or custom ottoman, most people focus on style, shape, and color. But one of the most important decisions you’ll make? Upholstery fabric.

The right upholstery doesn’t just complete the look — it determines how well your furniture stands up to everyday life. Whether you’re furnishing a quiet reading nook or a high-traffic family room, selecting the right fabric is key to comfort, durability, and long-term satisfaction.

At Ebert Furniture Gallery in Allentown, PA, we help homeowners choose upholstery that fits both their aesthetic and lifestyle. Here's what you should consider before choosing your next fabric.

Understand the Types of Upholstery Fabrics

Not all fabrics are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown of common upholstery types:

• Cotton – Soft, breathable, and natural. Great for casual spaces, but prone to staining without treatment.

• Linen – Light and elegant with a relaxed texture. Best for formal or low-traffic areas; wrinkles easily.

• Leather – Timeless, durable, and easy to clean. Ideal for homes with pets or kids, though it can scratch.

• Microfiber – A synthetic favorite for durability and stain resistance. Feels soft like suede.

• Performance Fabrics (like Crypton or Sunbrella) – Engineered to resist stains, moisture, and wear. Perfect for busy households.

Match Fabric to Room Function

Ask yourself: Where will this furniture live?

• High-Traffic Family Rooms: Go for tightly woven synthetics or performance fabrics that can handle daily use and cleanups.

• Formal Living Rooms: You can be more adventurous with delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, or linen.

• Pet-Friendly Spaces: Choose claw-resistant textures like leather or microfiber and avoid loose weaves.

• Sun-Exposed Rooms: Opt for UV-resistant fabrics to prevent fading, especially if your piece sits near a window.

Consider Your Household Needs

Your fabric should work for the way you live. Consider:

• Children: Look for stain-resistant, easy-to-clean materials like microfiber or performance blends.

• Allergies: Choose fabrics that don’t trap dust easily, such as leather or tightly woven synthetics.

• Pets: Go for pet-friendly fabrics that resist odors, fur, and claw marks — leather and Crypton are top choices.

Don’t Forget Style and Texture

The fabric you choose affects more than durability — it also defines the look and feel of your space:

• Velvet adds elegance and depth.

• Textured weaves bring warmth and a casual touch.

• Smooth cotton or linen offer a relaxed, breathable look.

• Leather creates a timeless, tailored finish.

We always recommend bringing home swatches from our showroom to see how they interact with your lighting, paint colors, and flooring.

Ask About Maintenance and Warranties

Some fabrics require more upkeep than others. At Ebert Furniture Gallery, we walk you through:

• Spot-cleaning techniques

• Manufacturer care recommendations

• Optional fabric protection plans

• Warranties and wear guarantees

This way, your furniture stays looking great — for years to come.

Ready to Find the Perfect Fabric?

Whether you're reupholstering a treasured heirloom or selecting fabric for a brand-new sofa, the team at Ebert Furniture Gallery is here to guide you every step of the way. With decades of experience and a showroom full of samples, we’ll help you find the right upholstery to match your style, lifestyle, and budget.

Visit us in Allentown, PA, or call to schedule a personalized design consultation.