What to Look For When Selecting a Fabric

Alexander Blank Fabrics & Design • October 15, 2019

When someone is looking for a fabric , there are a lot of choices to select from. It can be easy to become overwhelmed by all of the different options. People need to take their time when selecting a fabric because this is going to impact their home in multiple ways. Fortunately, there are a few key factors that people should consider to ensure they make the right choice.  

The Durability of the Fabric

It is important to consider the durability of the fabric. Is this fabric going to be attached to something that is going to be used every day? In this case, the fabric needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes from constant use. Are there going to be children or pets involved who might damage the fabric in some way? The fabric needs to have extra strength. On the other hand, if the fabric is going on a piece that is purely decorative, people might have a little bit more flexibility with their fabric choice. Consider the durability of the fabric and its potential use.

The Cleanability of the Fabric

Individuals also need to think about how easy the fabric is to keep clean. This is a common concern because a spill or stain can happen at any time. In general, professionals are going to recommend fabrics that can be dry-cleaned. Some of the common stains that people might face with their fabric include paw prints, marker ink, wine stains, and ice cream. Some fabric stains set to a higher degree than others, making them harder to clean. Individuals who are concerned about removing stains from their fabric need to ask about the cleanability of the material before making a decision.

The Potential of the Fabric to Fade

One of the most common complaints that people have regarding their fabric is how much it fades. When an individual is considering a specific fabric material, they need to consider where in their home this fabric is going to be located. If the fabric is going to be exposed to a lot of sunlight, the fabric is more likely to fade. To mitigate this, it might be better to select a fabric that is already light in color. That way, the faded appearance will not look as apparent. Think about where the fabric is going to be located and how big of a problem sun exposure is going to be. This is going to impact how much the fabric is going to fade.

Consider the Various Fabric Options

There are a lot of choices when it comes to looking for the right fabric. Individuals need to take the time to consider all of these factors before making a decision. Think about the durability, the cleanability, and the fabric’s fade potential. Nobody wants to have to replace their fabric before they are ready. Investing the time upfront in a high-quality material will reap rewards in the future. 

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