How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Sofa or Chair: A Guide by Rico Furniture

When it comes to customising your dream sofa or armchair at Rico Furniture, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right fabric. While colour and pattern often catch the eye first, the true value of your choice lies in the fabric's composition, durability, and functionality.

Form Meets Function

At Rico, we offer a wide range of fabric options that balance style with practicality. With support from top fabric houses like Warwick, Zepel, Wortley, Profile, and more, you'll find premium selections from Australia and around the globe.

But remember, not every fabric is right for every lifestyle. That’s why our expert consultants are here to help guide you through the process, ensuring your upholstery suits your home, needs, and daily life.

More Than Just Price Tags

While you might assume that a higher price equals better quality, that’s not always the case. Fabric prices are influenced by design complexity, fibre type, and manufacturing origin. Natural fibres like linen and cotton are usually more expensive than synthetic fibres, and intricate woven patterns typically cost more than plain weaves. However, pricing doesn’t always indicate how durable a fabric will be.

Understanding Durability: Fabric Ratings & Testing

The Martindale Test, commonly used in Australia and Europe, is a great measure of fabric strength. It indicates how well a fabric stands up to abrasion. For pieces that will experience frequent use—such as family sofas or lounge chairs—look for fabrics rated as "heavy domestic" or "commercial."

Weave & Fibre Matter

A tightly woven fabric generally means greater durability. However, weave strength must be considered alongside fibre type. If you have pets, avoid loose weaves or threads that can easily catch claws, regardless of the material's abrasion rating.

Stain Resistance: An Everyday Essential

Dining chairs, family room couches, or any high-traffic area call for fabrics with strong stain resistance. Synthetic fibres like polyester are more stain-resistant than natural fibres, as they're harder to dye—which means they’re less likely to hold onto spills.

Many of our upholstery fabrics blend synthetic and natural fibres to give you the best of both worlds: durability, ease of maintenance, and a natural, luxurious feel.

Need Help Choosing?

Choosing the right fabric doesn't need to be overwhelming. With Rico Furniture, you're never alone in the process. Visit our Sydney showroom or book a consultation with one of our experienced team members. We'll help you find the perfect balance between design, durability, and comfort—so you can love your furniture for years to come.