Live and Let Live – Your Guide to Stain Resistant Fabrics

You found it! The most perfect chair in all the world. It’s not too big, it’s not too small, it’s everything you’ve ever looked for in a place to rest your weary bones, except for one little problem…it’s white. And you’ve got kids and pets and your partner’s a hot mess (and if we’re being quite honest, aren’t we all?!) What if we were to proclaim that white fabrics are actually just fine? In fact, what if we were to proclaim that white fabrics are better than fine –  they’re actually downright fantastic? How can this be true? Because the modern textile market is busy offering up insanely durable performance fabrics that look and feel luxurious, so you can stop the stress and embrace the mess. Scroll on to read our tips for designing with family-friendly fabrics!

Know the Facts

If you take nothing else away from this post, let it be these magical words: 100% Solution-Dyed Acrylic. That’s the fiber content you want to see on the label when searching for the most stain repelling, color-fast, easy to clean, mold resistant, bleach tolerant fabric known to man. There are multiple retailers and suppliers, like Crypton and Perennials, that manufacture and sell solution-dyed acrylics under various brand names, each with their own additional advantages and special characteristics. However, the crucial element that unites them all is the way in which the yarns of the fabric are produced. Want all the nerdy details? You’ll find this explanation helpful. Otherwise, just trust us – when you need a high performance fabric, solution-dyed acrylic is your best bet. Shop some of our favorite suppliers here!

Interested in learning more about how you can get your hands on Crypton and contact other durable fabric retailers? Click here!

Use in High Traffic Areas

Have a sectional sofa that’s the go-to hangout spot for your teenage son and his grass-stained teammates? What about a special window seat that’s the perfect sunlit spot to enjoy a good book and a cup of coffee? These upholstered pieces are prime candidates for a solution-dyed acrylic fabric. And fortunately for all of us, even rug manufacturers are jumping on the durable fiber bandwagon. Companies like Perennials now offer beautiful runners, welcome mats, and plush area rugs made from <you guessed it> solution-dyed acrylic yarns!

Consider Custom

Achieve the perfect union of style and function by re-upholstering a chair or sofa in durable fabrics! It won’t necessarily be a less expensive option but it ensures you’re getting the look you want in a material that will last a lifetime.

Embrace the Mess

Accidents are bound to happen! Luckily, when they happen on stain-resistant fabrics, a few easy steps will have you cleaned up in no time. Here’s how we cleaned those popsicle stains off of our lounge chair covered in Crypton fabric!

STEP 1: BLOT THE SPILL WITH A CLEAN TOWEL

STEP 2: SPRAY WITH CLEANING SOLUTION (1/4 TSP MILD DETERGENT PER 1 CUP OF WATER)

STEP 3: SCRUB STAIN WITH SOFT BRISTLE BRUSH

STEP 4: RINSE WITH CLEAN WATER AND SOAK UP MOISTURE

Voila – good as new! Still have questions about stain-resistant fabrics? Drop us a line below!