Upholstery fabrics – solutions combining durability & sustainability

In interior design, it’s not just about visual appeal. Functionality and sustainable design are crucial considerations. When it comes to upholstery fabrics, factors such as durability and sustainable production play a key role in decision-making.

From an interior design perspective, this presents a challenge, as the requirements for upholstery textiles become increasingly complex. Alongside growing environmental expectations, customers continue to prioritise attributes such as attractive design, colour fastness, and overall living comfort.

Criteria for durable and sustainable textiles

The selection of sustainable and long-lasting textiles depends on multiple factors. Functional properties such as mechanical resistance, climate adaptability, and comfort, along with the overall environmental footprint throughout a fabric’s life cycle, are all decisive.

• Abrasion resistance and wear behaviour: Determines resilience against friction and daily use. The Martindale test measures how well a fabric withstands mechanical stress over time.
• Tear resistance: Indicates how resistant a material is to mechanical strain. Higher tear resistance equates to greater longevity.
• Colour fastness: UV exposure can cause colours to fade. High colour fastness ensures vibrancy over extended periods.

Sustainability in the textile industry

Sustainability encompasses the environmental impact from raw material sourcing and processing to usage and end-of-life disposal. For example, flax, the raw material for linen, requires significantly less water than leather. While linen and wool are biodegradable or recyclable, chrome-tanned leather does not share these properties.

Certificates and labels help identify sustainable materials:

• Oeko-Tex® assesses harmful substances and environmental factors throughout the supply chain.
• Leather Working Group (LWG) certifies eco-friendly leather processing, focusing on energy and water consumption.

Durability and sustainability of leather

Leather is a robust material used in high-quality seating and home accessories. Its longevity depends on the leather type, tanning method, and maintenance.

• Full-grain leather is exceptionally durable as it comes from the top layer of the hide.
• Top-grain leather has a uniform surface and remains long-lasting.
• Suede is soft to the touch but more susceptible to stains and moisture.

Sustainability of leather

The environmental impact of genuine leather is a debated topic. Tanning processes using chrome or aldehydes can be problematic, which is why sustainable alternatives such as vegetable tanning are preferred. Companies within the Texpertise Network are developing innovative solutions to minimise environmental harm.

Linen: a sustainable natural fibre for upholstery

Linen is breathable and provides excellent seating comfort. It is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. However, it is sensitive to moisture and stains. Coatings can enhance its durability but should not compromise its beneficial properties.

Sustainability aspects of linen

Linen is biodegradable and recyclable. Additionally, flax cultivation requires approximately ten times less water than cotton, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Wool as a durable upholstery fabric

Wool is often associated with clothing but is also a viable upholstery fabric. Its elasticity and thermal properties make it especially comfortable. Moreover, wool is colourfast and highly resistant to wear and tear.

However, wool requires special care to maintain its quality. Processes such as impregnation can improve resistance to moisture and abrasion.

Sustainability of wool

Wool is a renewable, biodegradable natural fibre. Certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) ensure sustainable production practices.

Conclusion: sustainable and durable materials in interior design

Sustainable upholstery fabrics combine eco-friendliness, longevity, and functionality. In addition to natural fibres such as linen and wool, innovative manufacturing techniques play a crucial role. Materials with specialised coatings or compound systems make delicate fabrics more durable.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions

What should I consider when choosing upholstery fabrics?

Key factors include durability, stain resistance, colour fastness, and the absence of harmful substances. Sustainability certifications can help identify environmentally friendly options.

How do I clean upholstered furniture?

Care depends on the material: leather can be cleaned with distilled water or a small amount of alcohol. Woven fabrics can be wiped with a damp cloth. Interior designers should provide customers with tailored care instructions.

Are there stain-resistant upholstery fabrics?

Leather is naturally more resistant to dirt and stains. Many woven fabrics now feature hydrophobic coatings that repel moisture and dirt.

Which types of wool are suitable for upholstery?

• Virgin wool is durable and retains its shape well.
• Merino wool is ideal for decorative spaces with light use.
• Mohair is highly abrasion-resistant and perfect for high-traffic areas.

Which coatings enhance fabric durability?

• Teflon: Water- and oil-repellent, reduces staining.
• Polyurethane (PU): Increases elasticity and abrasion resistance.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Protects against moisture and dirt.
• Acrylic: Enhances UV resistance and prevents fading.
• Silicone: Makes fabrics water-resistant and flexible.