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. 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

       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.

• 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.