Best Kid-Friendly Fabric for Sofas
1. Microfiber
Microfiber is stain-resistant and comes in different textures. Some microfiber weaves are smooth, like suede, and others are denser, similar to corduroy. You may clean most microfiber with water, but check the manufacturer’s tag because a few types of microfiber may require cleaning with a compatible solvent. For specific tips, read How to Clean a Microfiber Sofa.
2. Wool
For sofas, wool and wool blends are great because of their durability. They’re less prone to pilling, snagging and wrinkling than other fabrics. Plus, wool is easy to spot-clean. Vacuum this natural fabric with a hand-held vacuum attachment to remove dust.
3. Leather
Leather is a versatile sofa fabric; it can be elegant or totally casual. Its slick surface makes cleanups relatively easy. Beware if you have pets, as little claws can leave scratch marks. Scuff-repair solutions are available, and they can keep your kids’ sofa looking good for years. In addition, a quick treatment with leather conditioner once or twice a year will keep the sofa soft and supple. Read details in our guide on How to Clean a Leather Sofa.
4. Vinyl
Vinyl is just as versatile as leather and often has the same smart look, but at a much more affordable price. It’s easy to clean, too: just spray it with water and wipe spills away. Vinyl isn’t as snuggly as microfiber, but in a playroom, it will hold up to lots of abuse.
5. Denim
Just because a sofa is upholstered in denim doesn’t mean it’ll look like your worn-out jeans. Just like a comfy pair of jeans, denim is sturdy and goes with everything. In addition, denim sofas are available in a rainbow of colors to match your kids’ bedrooms or playroom.
Think you’ve found a sofa material that will work for your family? Be sure to read our Sofa Buying Guide to find the perfect size and style for your home.