5 Simple and Pretty Ways to Use Performance Fabrics in Your Home
Have you ever spilled red wine or coffee on new bedding, a sofa, or chair? How did you feel in that moment? Angry? Regretful?
The very first client I ever had (back in 2003) wanted a built-in banquet in her breakfast area. We had a wonderful cushion made to go in the banquet. She has two boys who were very young at the time and so something in me told me to recommend she have the window seat cushion scotch guarded. She did and it wasn't even a week later that one of her sons spilled red fruit punch on the cushion. I am pleased to report the cushion cleaned up perfectly.
I am fortunate to have experienced that scenario early on since it prompted me to encourage my clients to scotch guard everything. And we always make certain to use appropriate fabrics in areas that will see more wear.
Here are my top tips for the best applications of performance fabrics in your home…
1. Protect Your Sofas, Chairs & Ottomans
We always use upholstery weight fabrics on furniture and all our fabrics have a certain amount of treatment on them. When specifying fabrics for homes with children or pets we will recommend a Crypton fabric or indoor/outdoor fabric to allow for longevity, especially on items that see a lot of use…like sofas, chairs, and ottomans.
2. Lengthen the Life of Your Curtains & Drapes
We live in Texas ya'll and it is hot here most of the year. Our firm always blackout lines our window treatments, unless a client just flat-out does not want this lining. A quality lining will protect window treatments and extend their life.
3. Choose Your Indoor Area Rugs Carefully
I have had clients with children and pets want hand-knotted rugs, but the majority of my clients in this situation want rugs that are easy to keep. There are plenty of synthetic rugs out there that look nice. They will hold up better than a lot of the natural fibers, and when they do finally wear out, they are easier to replace since the price point is reasonable as well.
4. Keep Your Bedding Safe from Kids and Pets
I have had custom bedding made with special treatments or special throws to protect client's beds from their pets. The bedding we sell, as designers, is of a much better quality than anything available on the retail market and therefore it looks better and lasts longer.
5. Invest in Your Outdoor Furnishings
Outdoor fabrics are created to withstand the weather. They do come in different quality levels. You can usually tell the fabrics that will hold up better by their higher price point. The better outdoor fabrics can even be bleached and power washed. These fabrics can also be used on indoor furniture in high traffic areas with young kids.
Performance fabrics are functional and beautiful. You don't need to sacrifice one for the other. Request them where needed. You will be glad you made the investment.
If you're ready for an expert to bring function, durability, and beauty to your space, we've got your back! Contact us and let's get to know each other.
Warmly,
Robin