Fabric Sofa Buying Guide

Why choose a fabric sofa?

Offers supportive comfort designed for everyday use
Available in a wide choice of colours, textures and patterns
Blends seamlessly with both modern and traditional interiors

Designed with durable, easy-care fabrics for family life
Stays comfortable all year round – never too hot or too cold
Creates a warm, inviting atmosphere in any room

Types of fabric sofas

When choosing a fabric sofa, it’s essential to consider the various types of fabrics available, each offering unique characteristics. With 192 fabric options to explore, you’ll find a wide range of styles, textures, and finishes to suit your home. Understanding the benefits and considerations of each type can help you make an informed decision.

Calisese Sofa Range

Chenille sofas

A beautifully soft yet durable woven fabric
Has a relaxed, casual appearance
Is prone to flattening so will require regular smoothing and brushing to revive its piles

Alvie Sofa Range

Velvet sofas

Silky soft with a natural sheen
Durable yet with a luxurious look
Offers variation in shading, which will depend on the pile direction
There are various types of velvet, including plain and crushed

Charlbury Sofa Range

Microfibre sofas

Smooth, soft fabric that’s durable and hard-wearing
Highly resistant to stains and everyday spills
Easy to clean with a quick wipe or vacuum
Pet and family-friendly thanks to its tough, practical finish

Fincham Sofa Range

Corduroy sofas

A tough yet wonderfully soft upholstery
Features distinctive cord panel details
Requires brushing regularly along the nap to revive the pile

Bagnolo Sofa Range

Flatweave sofas

A very durable and hardwearing type of fabric
Features a tight weave structure which it easy to keep clean
Has a longer lifespan compared to other fabrics

Vergato Sofa Range

Boucle sofas

Soft, textured fabric with a stylish, cosy feel
Naturally disguises light wear and creases
Needs gentle brushing to keep the loops fresh

How to choose the right fabric for your sofa

When selecting the best fabric material for your sofa, consider factors such as comfort, durability, and maintenance. For households with children or pets, cotton or flatweave may be the most suitable options. If you prefer a more luxurious feel, consider velvet or chenille. Ultimately, choose a fabric that aligns with your personal preferences and suits your lifestyle best.

Factors to consider when choosing sofa fabrics

Durability: Opt for fabrics designed for high-traffic areas if you have a busy household such as flatweave. These fabrics are more resistant to wear and tear, ensuring your sofa stands the test of time.

Ease of cleaning: If you have children or pets, select a fabric that is easy to clean and preferably stain-resistant.

Texture: Consider how the fabric feels against your skin. Velvet or chenille offer a luxurious feel, while linen or cotton provide a more casual and breathable texture.

view upholstery options

When selecting fabric material for your sofa, consider room usage and family needs. For example, if you have young children, choose a fabric resistant to spills and stains, such as microfibre or polyester. These fabrics are typically spill-resistant, meaning spills don’t soak through the fabric barrier. Instead, they remain on the surface and can be easily wiped away with a damp microfibre cloth. For a formal living room, opt for a more elegant and delicate fabric, such as velvet or silk-blend upholstery.

In-store, you'll find bañeres — small and large swatches that you can drape over any sofa to get a better sense of how the fabric will look and feel in your space.

Seeing the fabric in person and in different lighting conditions ensures it complements your home perfectly.

Handy tip: You can browse our catalogue of fabric options on the product detail page of your dream sofa.

FAQs

How does fabric choice impact sofa comfort?

The fabric you choose can significantly impact overall comfort. Natural fabrics like cotton and linen offer breathability and a soft touch, while synthetic fabrics like polyester and microfibre are known for durability and stain resistance.

Top tips for testing sofa comfort in-store:

1. Sit on the sofa for an extended period to assess comfort.

2. Test different seating positions, such as lying down or sitting with your feet up.

3. Pay attention to cushioning support and how it conforms to your body.

4. Check sofa depth and height to ensure it meets your relaxation needs.

Find your local store and be sure to pop in to see us.

Next, think about your space: a recliner armchair might be perfect for a cosy reading corner, while a 2 or 3 seater recliner sofa can transform your living room into a home cinema for the whole family.

Are fabric sofas good for homes with pets or children?

Yes – fabric sofas can be a great choice for busy households. Durable options such as cotton or flatweave are easier to maintain and stand up well to everyday use, making them ideal for families with kids or pets.

For extra peace of mind, our Aquaclean sofas are designed with innovative technology that lets you remove spills and stains quickly using just water – a practical, family-friendly option without compromising on style.

How do you choose a fabric sofa that’s durable and easy to clean?

To choose a durable, easy-to-clean fabric sofa, look for tightly woven fabrics like cotton or flatweave, or opt for innovative options such as Aquaclean, which allow stains to be wiped away with just water.

Checking for features like stain resistance and a high durability rating will ensure your sofa stays looking fresh and family-friendly for years.

How to choose the right fabric for your sofa

When selecting the best fabric material for your sofa, consider factors such as comfort, durability, and maintenance. For households with children or pets, cotton or flatweave may be the most suitable options.

If you prefer a more luxurious feel, consider velvet or chenille. Ultimately, choose a fabric that aligns with your personal preferences and suits your lifestyle best.

How to measure your room to make sure a fabric sofa will fit

Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring your new fabric sofa fits perfectly in your space. Here are some tips:

How to measure your space: Measure the length, width, and height of the area where you plan to place your sofa. Consider any obstacles, such as radiators, windows, or doors that may affect placement. Ensure the sofa complements the room's layout and flow.

Common sofa sizes and configurations: Fabric sofas come in various sizes and configurations to suit different needs. From compact 2 seater sofas for smaller spaces to spacious corner sofas for larger living rooms, there is a wide range of options. Consider the number of people you need the sofa to accommodate and the style that best suits your interior.

How to navigate through doorways and hallways: Before finalising your purchase, check if the sofa can fit through all necessary access points. Measure the width of doors and hallways to ensure enough clearance. Consider modular sofas that can be assembled inside the room for easy maneuverability.

By taking accurate measurements and considering size and configuration, you can ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience.

For more information on measuring up and ensuring a smooth delivery, be sure to check out our fitting guide.

How to care for your fabric sofa

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your fabric sofa in top condition. Follow these best practices:

Start by vacuuming the surface to remove loose dirt or debris. Use a soft brush attachment to gently brush away dust or pet hair. Be sure to reach into crevices and under cushions to remove hidden dirt.

For stains, act quickly. Blot the stain with a clean, damp cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric. If the stain persists, consult the manufacturer's care instructions or consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaner.

To protect your sofa from stains and wear, consider using our sofa care kits, which are included in both our 5-year protection plan packages. Be sure to check out our fabric care guide for more top tips on keeping your sofa looking it’s best for years to come.

Why shop fabric sofas at ScS?

Viserba 3 Corner 2 LHF Power Recliner with Power Head Tilt & RHF Chaise with Manual Head

At ScS, we offer one of the UK’s widest selections of fabric sofas, with styles to suit every taste and budget. From modern designs to timeless traditional looks, there’s something for everyone.

One of the key advantages of choosing a fabric sofa from us is the ability to customise it to your unique style. With over 190 fabric options available — including a wide variety of colours, textures, and patterns — you can create a sofa that truly reflects your personality and complements your home.

Whether you’re revamping your living room or reimagining your bedroom, the right fabric makes all the difference. Our sofas are designed to bring together style, comfort, and flexibility, so you can find the perfect piece to suit both your lifestyle and your space.

Shop fabric sofas

Find your perfect sofa

We believe your sofa should be as unique as your home. That’s why our quality-crafted collection is fully customisable — with 192 fabrics and 48 leathers in a variety of colours to choose from, you can create the perfect configuration to suit your space. Each sofa is expertly handcrafted by us and ready to take pride of place in your living room.

For added confidence, every sofa comes with a 10-year frame guarantee as standard. Want even more peace of mind? Our selection of warranty care packages cover accidental damage, plus our Ultimate package covers structural defects, including upholstery and fillings, mechanical parts and electrical components — so you can sit back and relax.