What Is Performance Fabric, and What Makes It Perform?
When shopping for a new sofa or sectional, you've probably heard the term performance fabric. But what exactly makes a fabric perform? Is it durability, stain resistance, easy cleaning, or a combination of all three?
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right upholstery for your lifestyle.
What Makes a Fabric a Performance Fabric?
Performance fabrics are designed to withstand everyday living. Their performance comes from durable fibres, specialized weaving techniques, protective finishes, or a combination of these technologies.
However, a durable fabric isn't necessarily an easy-to-clean fabric.
What Is Rub Count, and Why Does It Matter?
Rub count measures a fabric's resistance to abrasion caused by repeated friction. Generally, a higher rub count indicates greater resistance to surface wear under laboratory testing.
But here's something important: a fabric with an exceptionally high rub count can still stain easily.
For heavily used seating, abrasion resistance matters. For families with children, pets, or busy households, cleanability may be even more important.
What Makes Performance Fabrics Easier to Clean?
Different performance fabrics use different technologies to resist spills and stains.
Corsica Collection with Gladiator Finish
Corsica upholstery with Gladiator finish offers a specialized performance treatment designed for practical everyday use.
Ennis Performance Fabrics
Ennis offers performance upholstery options featuring protective technologies such as Endurepel, designed to help repel moisture and resist everyday stains.
Revive Performance Fabrics
Revive highlights the benefits of advanced cleanability. Certain bleach-cleanable Revive fabrics allow common stains such as ketchup and coffee to be treated with a properly diluted bleach solution, potentially removing them in approximately five minutes when following the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.
Which Is More Important: Cleanability or Rub Count?
The answer depends on how you live.
A high rub count helps protect against abrasion, while easy-clean technology helps protect against everyday spills.
For most family homes, a balance of durability, stain resistance, comfort, and easy maintenance is the smartest choice.
Discover Performance Fabrics at Pallucci Furniture Vancouver
When it's tough to make a decision, come talk to us. We'll be happy to answer your questions and help you find the solution that best suits your home and lifestyle.