When shopping for a sofa, there are several fabric options to consider. One particular fabric that remains very popular is microfiber. And with good reason! Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of this fabric and why it might be the right choice for your home.
What Is Microfiber?Â
Microfiber, also known as microsuede, ultra-suede, and faux suede, is a man-made polyester fabric that is both soft and durable. This softness and durability can be attributed to how microfiber is made. Individual filaments are incredibly thin — less than 1 denier thick to be exact.
When it comes to denier — the measurement used to determine the fiber thickness of individual threads or filaments used in the creation of textiles and fabrics — the higher the count the more durable. Conversely, fabrics with a lower denier count are on the silky, softer side. Because of this, one might think that microfiber isn’t a durable fabric. However, that is not the case. This is because the thin filaments of microfiber are spun together to form a thicker cable or yarn. Then, the yarns are tightly woven, cut, and brushed. The result? A suede-like fabric that’s both durable and soft to the touch.Â
Benefits of Microfiber Fabric
Now that we’ve talked about what microfiber is, let’s take a look at its benefits. These benefits are what make this fabric such a popular choice among homeowners.Â
Microfiber is stain-resistant and easy to clean
If you have a busy family life, you understand how much traffic your home can get. When it comes to furniture, a huge benefit is its ability to resistant stains. Microfiber has an incredibly tight weave, which makes it naturally stain-resistant. In most cases, fluids runoff, rather than get absorbed into the fabric. A simple pat dry is usually all it takes to avoid a disastrous stain. If you do see some dirt buildup on the surface, simply look for a cleaning product specifically designed for that type of fabric. Keep in mind that over time, too many water spills can leave a mark that is difficult to get out, so be careful.
Microfiber is tough, yet comfortable
A lot of use can leave your furniture with wear and tear quicker than you might like. With excess use, you see things such s sagging, piling, stiffening, shrinking, and stretching all of which can leave you extremely frustrated. The great thing about microfiber is that it was designed to avoid problems such as these, making it an easy choice for people living in heavy-traffic homes. As mentioned earlier, its durability is largely in part to its tight weave, but this strength and resilience don’t equate lack of comfort. Quite the opposite actually its lightweight fabric is soft to the touch, making it a comfortable option as well.
Microfiber helps allergy sufferers
If you suffer from allergies, consider microfiber. Microfiber’s tight weave helps repel common allergies without generating its own dust or lint as some other fabrics do. As mentioned earlier, microfiber is easy to clean, so whatever allergens do fall onto the surface can be easily removed with a vacuum or lint roller.
Microfiber comes in eye-catching varieties
Since microfiber retains dye very well, it can be found in a variety of colors that will work with your home’s decor. Additionally, some fabric comes with a pattern woven into it, making your selection even broader. Whether your design style is contemporary or farmhouse, microfiber upholstery can blend in with ease, especially when its textures can be made to remble suede, velvet, and cotton upholstery.
Microfiber is affordable
What’s great about microfiber is that it looks like high-end suede, but without the high-end price tag. Microfiber is definitely a luxury that is affordable.Â
The Potential ‘Cons’ of Microfiber
While microfiber can be an excellent choice for your home, it wouldn’t be right to avoid bringing attention to some of its downsides. As with anything, there are cons that should also be considered before making a final decision. Let’s cover a few of those.
Microfiber can discolor if not treated promptly
It’s important to understand that microfiber is water and spot resistant, but not water and spot proof. Therefore, if stains aren’t noticed or treated right away they can become a much bigger problem.Â
Microfiber can have some static cling
If you use a microfiber cloth for cleaning, then you know how great the fabric is at capturing dust, hair, and other small particles. While your upholstery might not be as clingy as a cleaning cloth, it will still be clingier than other fabrics and may need a little more attention especially if you have pets.Â
If you think microfiber is the right fit for you, please stop by to check out our selection. We have some beautiful choices that match with a wide range of designs. Looking for a fabric store near you in Keller? Come by our Cutting Corners location in Dallas, located on Midway Road for the best deals on discount designer fabrics for drapery, upholstery and more! You are sure to find loads of fabric, trim, and accessories for every home interior project whether it is gorgeous drapery fabrics, light weight cottons or luxurious Dupioni Silks.
