What Are Performance Fabrics and Why Use Them?

Rose Morrison

Dec 19, 2024

performance fabrics

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It’s comforting to know that you can always sit comfortably in your armchair or lie on the sofa at the end of the day. That said, quality furniture is hard to come by and expensive, so you want to ensure you get the best padding and components to build it. Performance fabrics are a quality investment among textile options.

What is a Performance Fabric?

Performance fabric is a textile built to last against wear and tear. Numerous materials, such as acrylic and polyester, can fall under this category. While these vary in results, they all generally have the same traits of moisture resistance and durability. Most people use performance fabric for upholstery and interior design, but some manufacturers incorporate them into clothes.

Why Use Performance Fabrics?

Performance fabrics have a reputation for being great for maintenance and styling. They’re also reasonably good for the environment, making them the ideal textile choice.

Easy to Clean

It’s frustrating when liquids and sauces get on the couch. Spills and stains caused 55% of furniture damage in 2024, and that trend will likely continue in the future. Thankfully, most performance fabrics are waterproof, keeping most of the gunk on the surface.

Whatever seeps into the upholstery should come off with a little soap and water. You can also use bleach to remove any lingering stains, though it’s safe to use high-performance fabrics to avoid discoloration. 

Style with Texture

Textiles should add interest to the design. Certain performance fabrics are woven, which offer great texture to make eye-catching furniture. If you also find a good supplier, you can find an exact color and pattern that suits your style. Since the fibers repel liquids and dirt, the furniture can stay pristine and stylish for a long time. 

Good for the Environment

It’s important to seek sustainable options with your furniture. Performance fabrics are dubbed as PFAS-free, so they are formulated without common chemicals like fluorine. A durable and simple-to-clean material also means fewer repairs and replacements, which minimizes waste and emissions. 

white performance fabric

Can Performance Fabrics Be Used Outdoors?

Performance fabric suits outdoor furniture like hammocks and patio seats, as they can withstand rain much better. You can still use a waterproof container to prevent mildew and fading in the future. It’s also ideal to wipe down the items after rain to prevent water accumulation and excessive moisture.

How Do Performance Fabrics Compare to Regular Fabrics? 

Regular fabrics focus more on looks rather than performance. For instance, velvet fabric focuses more on offering visual warmth and a luxurious touch. While there is merit to their usage, you want to gravitate more toward a high-performance fabric like olefin to resist water and stains if you want durable upholstery.

off-white performance fabric

What to Look for in Performance Fabric

Durability and texture are the main factors. If sustainability matters to you, assess which fabrics have undergone chemical treatment. Some manufacturers add extra coatings to heighten the performance factor of these fabrics. 

You should also look for fabrics that match your style. Homeowners must select an option based on compatibility with the furniture’s design to keep the interior design cohesive. The final product will also appear more bespoke.

Are Performance Fabrics Worth the Investment?

A performance fabric stands the test of time and moisture when paired with proper care and maintenance. Americans throw out over 12 million tons of furniture annually, accumulating waste and costs. You can get performance fabric by the yard to get only as much as you need for your upholstery.

Elevate Your Upholstery

Whether renovating or curating your first home, performance fabrics take your upholstered furniture to the next level. The investment is excellent for both outdoor and indoor fixtures and can save you money in the long run. 

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