Which Fabrics Are the Most Pet Friendly?

Some materials stand up to pets much better than others.

If you have a pet, you’re probably all too familiar with shedding, chewing, scratching and stains. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have great looking furniture and window coverings. Although no material is completely pet-proof, here are some of the most durable fabrics that can stand up to your pet’s claws and paws:

• Leather/faux leather

The great thing about genuine and faux leather is that you can easily wipe away fur and spills. And while both resist most stains and odors, real leather is slightly more puncture resistant. To reduce potential scratches, make sure to keep your pet’s nails trimmed.

• Microfiber/Polyester

Made from polyester or other synthetic materials, microfiber has a soft, luxurious feel. And because of its tight weave, sharp claws are less likely to get stuck, and you can remove dirt with a medium-bristle brush or mild soap and water. Other types of polyester fabrics can be used for drapery panels and energy-efficient blinds that need to stand up to attracting fur and natural oils from our pets. These fabrics can be dry cleaned or spot cleaned for easy upkeep.

• Outdoor fabrics

Mold and mildew resistant, outdoor fabrics are created to withstand the harshest of elements — so, it makes sense they can hold up well to your four-legged friend. And these days, you can even find them in soft textures, like velvets and jacquards.

• Denim or canvas

For casual rooms, denim and canvas slipcovers feature a tight weave that resists scratches and doesn’t attract fur. And when they get dirty, you can just remove them and throw them into the wash.

Keep in mind, tight weaves work best. And if you choose geometrics, florals or other intricate patterns, you can more easily hide small scratches and stains. Also, consider colors that will blend with your dog’s hair. Neutrals, such as dark grays or browns, blend well with most hair, and you can always add splashes of color with decorative accents.