The furniture industry has evolved significantly in recent years, with a focus on creating more durable and long-lasting products. From solid wood to aluminum and upholstery, all aspects of the furniture-making business undergo extensive testing to create materials of the highest quality. One of their most innovative technologies goes into what is known as performance fabrics.
What is performance fabric?
It is a specialized type of fabric depending on its usage. There are different types of performance fabric according to the industry they are being used. (fashion or furniture). They can be made from natural or artificial raw materials that have been treated with various methods so that the result can serve a specific purpose. In furniture making, this can include any of the following; easy cleaning, waterproof, high erosion resistance, flame retardant, or even UV resistant for outdoor use, and can be used both for commercial purposes (such as hotels and restaurants) and residential, especially in families with pets or children that are more prone to accidents.
Four popular options of performance fabrics for furniture include nylon, polyester, olefin, and acrylic.
Nylon
Nylon, known for its strength and durability, is a great choice for outdoor furniture or heavy-use chairs. Its industrial-grade properties make it a practical option for those looking for furniture that can withstand the elements or regular wear and tear.
Polyester
Polyester, on the other hand, offers a balance of durability and comfort. This synthetic fabric is wrinkle-resistant, strong, and quick-drying, making it an ideal choice for sofas and armchairs. Its blendability with cotton adds to the comfort and aesthetic of your furniture.
Olefin
For those looking for a fabric that can withstand stains and fading, olefin is a great choice. This synthetic fiber is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to spills and sunlight, making it perfect for carpets and ottomans in high-traffic areas.
Acrylic
Acrylic, with its lightweight and soft texture, is an excellent choice for furniture items like throws, blankets, or slipcovers. Its resistance to shrinking, stretching, and wrinkling makes it a practical option for adding warmth and comfort to your home decor.
Where can we find performance fabrics？
Performance fabrics can be found in a variety of furniture and home products, including sofas, dining chairs, accent chairs, bar stools and counter stools, decorative cushions, and even bed headboards. They are also frequently used in outdoor furniture, such as patio chairs and outdoor cushions, due to their ability to withstand the elements and resist wear and tear more than their lower-quality counterparts.
>>> Shop Rhett Dining Chair in performance fabric
How to choose the best performance fabric for you.
To choose the best performance fabric for your needs you need to consider a few things. Firstly, determine the purpose for which you need the fabric. Is it for daily use, are there children or animals in the house, is it a high-risk area where you eat food? The above will help you determine whether you need to look for a fabric that has resistance to stains, water, fading, and other factors. Secondly, think of the color and texture you are looking for. Some people prefer more minimalistic types of fabrics whereas others prefer bold, vibrant colors and patterns. The texture of the performance fabric may also be important to consider. Some performance fabrics have a smooth, soft finish, while others may have a more textured or rough surface.
It's also important to consider the overall style and aesthetic of the room or space where the performance fabric will be used. For example, if you are selecting a performance fabric for a couch in a formal living room, you may want to choose a more sophisticated, classic fabric. On the other hand, if you are choosing a performance fabric for a child's bedroom, a bold, colorful pattern may be more suitable.
By considering the color and texture of the performance fabric, as well as the overall style of the space where it will be used, you can choose a performance fabric that complements your decor and meets your personal preferences.
CHITA’s choice
We at CHITA LIVING, are proud to offer an exceptional performance fabric that you can find in sofas, dining chairs, accent chairs, and barstools. It is made either with 100% Polyester or a combination of 95% Polyester and 5% Nylon and is available in various colors. There are four reasons why our performance fabric stands out:
- It has an OEKO-TEX certification, the mark of high quality and safety for textiles which indicates that a product has been tested for harmful substances and meets high environmental and social standards.
- It is Pet friendly hence ideal for homes with one or more pets. Expertly designed and crafted with a tight weave that is resistant to pet snags and trapping pet hairs, making it easy to clean and care for.
- It has a high Contract Grade. Fabrics are engineered for both commercial and residential furniture in high-traffic areas that need to be highly resilient that surpass durability standards. With a rub count of over 20,000, our fabric is an excellent choice for heavy-duty furniture.
- Its Performance: Our performance fabric is tough on spills yet soft to the touch for added comfort. It is finished with innovative formulas and chosen for its inherent performance qualities, making it easy to clean and care for. It is designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for furniture in high-traffic areas.
How to clean&care?
It is important to note that the "W" cleaning code on a fabric indicates that it can be cleaned using water-based cleaners or upholstery shampoo. It is important to avoid over-wetting the fabric when cleaning. Steam cleaning or hot water extraction are acceptable methods. You can also use water-based cleaning agents and a clean, white towel to dab out spots. Correct maintenance of your fabrics will make them last longer.
Performance fabrics are a great choice for furniture and home products due to their durability, functionality, and easy maintenance. Choosing the right one for you will not only alleviate the stress of constantly worrying whether they are dirty or not but will prove to be a great investment for you and your house.