This article was written by Ryan Podnar, furniture expert at La-Z-Boy South Texas
When you have pets, your furniture needs to be more than just aesthetically pleasing—it must also be durable, easy to clean, and able to withstand the wear and tear of pet life.
Whether you have a dog that loves to jump on the couch or a cat that insists on lounging in the sun, choosing the right pet-friendly furniture can make a world of difference in keeping your home comfortable, stylish, and hassle-free.
In this guide to pet-friendly furniture, we’ll explore the best materials, designs, and tips for selecting furniture that works for you and your furry companions while maintaining your home’s beauty and functionality.
Coming Up…
- Opt for Durable Fabrics
- Choose Furniture with Removable Covers
- Select Pet-Friendly Furniture Designs
- Choose Pet-Friendly Colors and Patterns
- Regular Maintenance and Care Tips
- Consider Furniture with Built-in Pet Protection
1. Opt for Durable Fabrics
The fabric you choose for your furniture plays a major role in how well it holds up against your pets. While certain fabrics may feel luxurious, they might not stand the test of time when subjected to pet claws, hair, or accidents.
Here are some of the best fabric choices for pet-friendly furniture:
A. Microfiber
- Why it's great: Microfiber is a popular choice for pet owners because it is incredibly durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains and moisture. It’s a tight-knit fabric, making it difficult for pet hair to stick, which means less cleaning time for you.
- Tip: Opt for performance microfiber for even better resistance to spills, stains, and scratches.
B. Leather
- Why it's great: Leather is a great option for pet owners because it is naturally durable, easy to wipe clean, and resistant to pet odors and stains. It doesn’t trap pet hair like fabric does, making it easier to maintain.
- Tip: Look for top-grain leather, which is thicker and more resistant to scratching than bonded leather.
C. Crypton Fabric
- Why it's great: Crypton is an engineered fabric known for its durability, stain resistance, and odor protection. It is specially treated to resist moisture, making it ideal for pet owners concerned about accidents or spills.
- Tip: Crypton is often used in upholstery for both commercial and residential settings due to its stain-resistant properties, so look for this fabric in pet-friendly furniture pieces.
D. Outdoor Fabrics
- Why it's great: Outdoor fabrics, like those made of Sunbrella, are designed to withstand the elements, making them perfect for indoor pet-friendly furniture. These materials are UV-resistant, fade-resistant, and easy to clean, which makes them highly durable against pet claws and accidents.
- Tip: Outdoor fabrics are available in a wide variety of textures and colors, so you can create stylish indoor seating without compromising durability.
2. Choose Furniture with Removable Covers
For added convenience, consider furniture pieces with removable covers that can be easily washed or replaced. This is especially useful for pet owners whose furry friends may leave behind stains, hair, or odors. Here are some examples:
A. Slipcovers
- Why they're great: Slipcovers are a pet owner’s best friend because they can be easily removed and washed. Whether you're dealing with mud, fur, or occasional accidents, you can quickly refresh your furniture with a new cover.
- Tip: Choose slipcovers that are machine washable and made of durable materials like cotton or polyester for longevity.
B. Cushion Covers
- Why they're great: Many sofas and chairs come with removable cushion covers. These are perfect for quickly cleaning up pet hair or dealing with food and drink spills.
- Tip: Look for cushion covers with zippers or Velcro for easier removal and cleaning.
3. Select Pet-Friendly Furniture Designs
In addition to fabrics and covers, the design of your furniture can help you maintain a pet-friendly living space. Consider these furniture design tips:
A. Low-Profile Furniture
- Why it's great: Low-profile furniture is often easier for pets to access, especially if you have older pets or smaller breeds. It also reduces the chance of your pet jumping or climbing on furniture and accidentally damaging the structure.
- Tip: Opt for lower-set sofas or chairs with sturdy, wide frames that are less likely to tip over with pets jumping on them.
B. Sturdy Frames and Legs
- Why it's great: Pets often jump on and off furniture, so choosing furniture with strong, stable frames is essential. Wooden or metal frames are often sturdier than particle board or plastic, ensuring that your furniture holds up to everyday pet activity.
- Tip: Avoid furniture with weak or flimsy legs, as pets may cause them to wobble or break over time.
C. Furniture with Pet-Specific Features
- Why it's great: Some furniture pieces are designed specifically with pets in mind. For example, you can find pet beds built into the sofa, or dog-friendly side tables with built-in storage for toys and grooming supplies.
- Tip: Consider investing in pet-friendly tables and ottomans that include hidden compartments to store pet essentials like leashes, treats, and toys.
4. Choose Pet-Friendly Colors and Patterns
When choosing furniture colors and patterns, it’s important to think about how your pet’s hair and stains will affect the appearance of your furniture. Here are some tips for selecting pet-friendly colors:
- Darker Shades: Darker colors like charcoal gray, navy, or brown are great for hiding dirt, stains, and pet hair. They also tend to be more forgiving of wear and tear over time.
- Patterned Fabrics: Fabrics with patterns, such as tweed or floral designs, can also hide pet hair better than solid fabrics. This helps maintain the appearance of your furniture even if your pet sheds a lot.
- Avoid Light Colors: Light-colored furniture, especially white or beige, tends to show stains, pet hair, and dirt more prominently. If you choose lighter shades, opt for durable fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to clean.
5. Regular Maintenance and Care Tips
Even the best pet-friendly furniture needs regular maintenance to keep it looking great. Here are some essential care tips:
- Vacuum Frequently: Pet hair can accumulate quickly, so vacuum your furniture regularly using an upholstery attachment to keep it clean.
- Spot Clean Stains Immediately: Accidents happen, so address any spills or stains promptly. Keep pet-friendly fabric cleaner on hand to treat stains before they set in.
- Trim Pet’s Nails: Regularly trimming your pet’s nails can help prevent scratches on your furniture. If your pet tends to scratch, consider adding scratch-resistant pads to prevent damage.
- Use Pet Blankets or Throws: Keep a pet blanket or throw on your furniture to protect it from fur, dirt, and stains. These can be easily washed and changed as needed.
6. Consider Furniture with Built-in Pet Protection
Some furniture brands offer pet-friendly furniture lines that include built-in protection features such as scratch-resistant fabrics, antimicrobial treatments, and easy-to-clean upholstery. These options are specifically designed to withstand the challenges of pet ownership.
- Scratch-Resistant Upholstery: Choose upholstery that is resistant to pet claws and damage. Some brands use durable synthetic fabrics designed to endure pet activity.
- Pet-Friendly Coatings: Some furniture comes with special coatings that repel pet odors, stains, and moisture, making it easier to maintain a fresh, clean environment.
Ready to Find the Right Furniture for You?
Choosing the right pet-friendly furniture doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or comfort. With the right fabrics, designs, and furniture options, you can create a space that accommodates your pets while keeping your home looking beautiful.
From durable materials like microfiber and leather to clever designs like removable covers and storage benches, there are many ways to make your home both pet-friendly and stylish.
If you’re looking for pet friendly furniture options while still providing superior comfort, visit your nearest La-Z-Boy South Texas store to check out our top options and materials.
