Step into your living room, and what’s the first thing you see? In most cases, the sofa will be your answer, as it often functions as the centrepiece of one’s living room. While a comfortable sofa is a must-have in any home, it’s more than just a place to sit; it’s a reflection of your style and personality.
So, sofa shopping can be exciting and daunting at the same time, especially as there are many options available, with fabric and microfiber sofas being the common ones. Choosing which one is right for you is essential as it will impact your living room’s comfort, durability, and style. In this post, we’ll highlight each sofa material’s pros and cons and help you make an informed decision.
What are fabric sofas?
This type of sofa is made from natural or synthetic fibres, including cotton, linen, and wool. Fabric sofas are available in various colours and patterns, making finding one that matches your decor easy.
Pros of fabric sofas
There are a few reasons why fabric sofas remain popular to this day. Let’s take a closer look at three of them:
Eco-friendly
Care about the environment? Fabric sofa materials like cotton and wool are biodegradable and renewable, making them ideal for you who want to leave a minimal carbon footprint on the world.
Comfortability
Sofas made out of cotton or linen have high breathability, allowing air to flow through the fibres, helping regulate temperature and prevent overheating. This makes sitting on the sofa longer and more comfortable, especially in warm or humid weather.
Customisability and personalisation
As stated above, fabric sofas are available in various colours, patterns, and textures, making it easy to find a sofa matching your style and decor. Fabric sofas can also be easily reupholstered or covered with slipcovers, allowing you to change the look of your sofa without purchasing a new one.
Cons of fabric sofas
Similar to any other type of thing, the benefits of fabric sofas also come hand-in-hand with their drawbacks, which are the following:
Bad odour
One concern that often arises with fabric sofas is their ability to absorb bad odours. This can be a problem, especially if you smoke or cook foods that produce a strong smell. Therefore, proper maintenance and regular cleaning with a vacuum or cloth are necessary to address this issue.
Fading appearance
Like all fabrics, exposure to sunlight can cause fading over time. Fortunately, you can take steps to minimise the effects of sunlight on your furniture. One option is to position your sofa in a location that receives less direct sunlight, reducing its overall exposure, or you can utilise blinds or curtains.
Staining and spills
Fabric sofas are more susceptible to staining and spills. Although some fabric sofas are touted as stain-resistant, spills can still seep into the fabric fibres and leave permanent stains. Therefore, prompt cleaning is a must should it happen. For better protection, you can use a protective spray that repels water to create a barrier and prevent stains.
What are microfiber sofas?
Microfiber sofas are made from a blend of polyester and nylon, creating a synthetic material consisting of tiny fibres thinner than human hair. These fibres are tightly woven together, giving microfiber sofas a softness and texture not found in other sofas.
Pros of microfiber sofas
There are a few reasons why microfiber sofas are gaining popularity these days. Let’s take a closer look at four of them:
Stain resistance
Microfiber sofas are tightly woven to repel water and stains, making permanent stains due to spills much more difficult. Such a luxury is ideal for wine and coffee lovers, two substances that often leave stains and are difficult to clean. Also, microfiber sofas will likely be treated with a stain-resistant coating that further enhances their spill resistance.
Long-lasting colours
As microfiber sofas are made of synthetic fibres, they can resist fading, even when put under direct sunlight. Rest easy when you finally purchase the green microfiber sofa you always wanted, as the colours will stay as bright and vivid as the first day you bought them years later.
Soft and cosy
If you love soft and cosy furniture, you’re likely to appreciate the luxurious feel of a premium microfiber sofa. Microfiber has a unique texture that is soft, smooth, and slightly furry, similar to velvet. This signature feel is more inviting and comfortable on the skin than materials like leather.
Have hypoallergenic properties
Microfiber sofas are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
Cons of microfiber sofas
Now let’s take a look at three reasons why microfiber sofas might not be ideal for you:
Not eco-friendly
Although microfiber sofas are made from polyester, a product of petroleum waste repurposed for good, some may argue that petroleum waste shouldn’t be created in the first place.
Clings to particles
Microfiber tends to grip hairs, dust, and other small particles. While this is great for cleaning tools like cloth, it may be less useful for sofas, especially if you have furry friends. You may need to invest in a good vacuuming tool to remove the dust and hair.
Creates static
As stated above, microfiber sofas are made of synthetic materials. When synthetic materials rub against each other, they can create a buildup of static electricity, which can cause discomfort or annoyance to those using the sofa.
Which sofa is ideal for you?
The choice between fabric or microfiber sofas ultimately depends on your preference and needs. Fabric sofas are ideal for those who want a wide range of options, including colours, patterns, and styles. They’re also more breathable, making them ideal for those who live in a warmer climate.
Meanwhile, microfiber sofas are more durable as they’re spill and stain resistant, making them ideal for those who have children and love entertaining. They’re also ideal for those with allergies, as microfiber sofas are hypoallergenic.
Are you looking for a sofa that will create a lasting impression? Visit Chesters Collection to find the right sofa for you!
Whether you’re looking for a quality fabric or microfiber sofas, look no further than Chesters Collection! We are a reputable authorised dealer of various multinational furniture brands in Malaysia. Our collection of sofas is known for its high-quality and stylish designs. They are made with durable materials and feature comfortable seating, supportive cushions, and sturdy frames built to last.
Contact us today for more information.