However, there’s one factor you may not have considered, which directly affects the durability of your sofa – and that’s the ‘rub count.’
US company Interior Define developed the Rub Count to score how well their many fabric options do on a durability test.
The scores are based on how well the fabrics perform in the Martindale Abrasion Test, which measures the number of rubs a fabric can handle before it begins to change in appearance.
If durability is an important factor for you when choosing a new sofa, then these are the best options, according to Apartment Therapy.
The toughest option: tight-weave polyester fabrics
These fabrics are the most durable, with an impressive 50K Rub Count. Polyester is super-resilient and can resemble anything from a sturdy cotton to a soft felt. They’re strong and stain resistant and are best chosen based on the feel of the fabric, whether that’s a soft micro suede or a sturdy weave – which is great if you have kids or pets.
The tougher option: Sunbrella fabrics
This is a great option for indoors and outdoors, as it looks great and has UV protection to guard against fading that can occur when furniture is situated in a sunny spot. Sunbrella fabrics boast a 20K Rub Count. Outdoor Elegance and Lavita stock products featuring Sunbrella fabrics.
The tough option: cotton
If you love natural fibres, cotton delivers a pretty substantial 18K Rub Count. Canvas and denim are good options as they have a tight weave and are less likely to let liquid, dust or grime in. Leather is another good option as long as it’s genuine 100 per cent leather.
This article first appeared on Home Beautiful
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