Unleashing Dog Durability and Style: 5 Tips for Selecting Dog-Friendly Fabric for Your Home

Written By Emily Flaxman

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! We all know that sharing our home with our furry friends brings so much joy and love. In fact, science shows that canine companions measurably improve our lives. Dogs help us feel less alone, keep us active, and reduce stress.

However, keeping our furniture clean and pristine with our four-legged roommates can be quite the challenge. Worry not, I’m here to help you find that perfect balance of form and function. Let's get into some tips for choosing upholstered furniture that keeps both you and your pup happy.

Tip #1 - Select ruff-and ready stain-resistant materials. When it comes to fabric, you’ll want something that can stand up to your pup’s antics. First, focus on durability. Performance fabrics do a better job at resisting wear, tear, and staining. Some are even machine-washable or bleachable!

Emily’s Extra Tip: Always remember to request fabric samples to test for comfort and cleanability before buying. Some performance fabrics may offer durability but lack softness and comfort. Others claim stain resistance but aren’t totally stain-proof. Rub in some dirt, pour a little wine on your sample, and try to clean it off.

Tip #2 - Choose fabrics with color variation as they are better at hiding pet hair and stains than solid-colored fabrics. Additionally, take your dog's coat color into consideration when selecting fabric colors. For example, you may think a dark-colored fabric is the way to go, but if you have a high-shedding, light-colored dog, a dark-colored fabric may show every single hair. Ruff-roh!

Tip #3 - Opt for furniture with slip-covers or removable and washable cushion covers. This can make cleaning much more manageable, as you can easily remove and wash the covers when needed.

Tip #4 - Use washable blankets to protect your furniture. Layering washable blankets over portions of your furniture can help protect it from pet hair, stains, and wear. These can be easily removed and washed as needed, keeping your furniture looking fresh.

Tip #5 - I LOVE a good puppy cuddle, but sometimes we need to establish boundaries by teaching our dogs that they are not allowed on certain pieces of furniture. This will help protect any special, coveted furniture from damage and make cleaning easier. If this is not possible, create a designated “pet-friendly” area, and refer back to Tip #4.

Selecting dog-friendly furniture doesn't mean sacrificing style and comfort. By considering these tips, you can create a welcoming and practical space for both you and your four-legged friends. With a little planning, you can have a home that's both stylish and pet-friendly.

xx,

Emily

Shop these rooms & some of my favorite pet products:

Sources

Emily Flaxman
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