Spills from snack time, muddy paw prints after backyard adventures, and the general whirlwind of daily family life... If this sounds familiar, you're not alone.
For households with kids and pets, choosing the right fabric material sofa is all about finding a balance between durability, easy maintenance, and cozy comfort. The wrong fabric can wear out fast or become a magnet for stains and fur, but the right choice can stand up to the chaos and still look great.
Let us help you zero in on the best upholstery for a pet-proof couch while highlighting the most practical and stylish options for families.
From exploring the most resilient materials to offering care tips and recommending top picks from Urner’s sofa collection, this guide will help you find a fabric material sofa that truly fits your busy, love-filled home.
What Makes a Sofa Fabric Family- and Pet-Friendly?
Going shopping for a fabric material sofa? Of course, you want something that can keep up with your busy household. But what truly makes a sofa "family-friendly" is not just about how it looks, but also about how it holds up to life's daily messes.
A family- and pet-friendly sofa should be durable, stain-resistant, easy to clean, and of course, comfortable enough for movie nights, nap times, and everything in between.
Here are some features to look for when choosing a fabric material sofa for homes with kids and pets:
- Tight weaves that make it harder for dirt and fur to stick
- High rub count (also known as double rubs), which indicates a strong fabric built to withstand wear
- Removable, washable covers for quick and easy cleaning
- Non-absorbent materials that repel spills and reduce staining
- Scratch-resistant finishes that stand up to curious claws
- Pet hair–resistant surfaces that don’t trap fur
If you’re asking, “What’s the most durable sofa fabric for a family with pets?” the answer usually comes down to high-performance materials—crafted to resist wear, keep their fresh look, and wipe clean with ease. Many of these tough-yet-stylish options can be found in Urner’s living room collection, where every sofa is built to stand up to the happy chaos of everyday life.
Best Sofa Fabrics for Households with Kids and Pets
If you’re shopping for furniture that can handle life with kids and pets, choosing the right material is a must. But how to choose a sofa fabric that is easy to clean with kids?
Start by considering these top five materials that combine durability, comfort, and low-maintenance care:
- Microfiber: Microfiber is a top pick for families thanks to its ultra-tight weave, which makes it resistant to spills, stains, and pet hair. It’s also incredibly soft and cozy.
- Polyester-Synthetic: Polyester and other synthetic blends are known for their strength and resistance to fading, wrinkling, and stretching. These fabrics tend to be budget-friendly, easy to clean, and great for high-traffic areas.
- Leather Alternatives (Faux Leather/Polyurethane): Faux leather offers the look of real leather without the maintenance. It doesn’t trap pet hair and can be wiped clean easily, though it may be more prone to scratches from claws compared to woven fabrics.
- Velvet: While it may seem like a luxury choice, performance velvet is a surprisingly durable option. Many modern velvets are treated to resist stains and moisture, and the dense pile helps conceal wear and pet hair.
- Chenille: Chenille is soft, textured, and family-approved. It feels plush and welcoming, while still offering good durability, although it’s best to pick a version with a tighter weave to prevent snagging from claws.
➜ Learn More: Which Couch Fabric Really Holds Up to Dogs?
Sofa Fabric Comparison: Which One Suits You Best?
| Fabric Type | Pet Hair Resistance | Stain Resistance | Comfort | Scratch Resistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microfiber | High – resists most pet hair | High – easy to spot clean | High – soft and cozy | Medium – tolerates moderate wear | Low – minimal upkeep |
| Polyester (Synthetic) | Medium–High – hair brushes off easily | High – resists spills | Medium – comfortable but less plush | Medium – holds up well | Low – simple cleaning |
| Faux Leather / Polyurethane | High – hair won’t cling | High – wipes clean effortlessly | Medium – firm but comfortable | Low – can show scratches | Very Low – easiest to maintain |
| Velvet (Performance) | Medium – some hair may cling | Medium–High – better than traditional velvet | High – plush and luxurious | Medium – moderate scratch resistance | Medium – occasional care needed |
| Chenille | Medium – pet hair can collect | Medium – resists light stains | High – soft texture | Low–Medium – may snag with claws | Medium – requires regular upkeep |
How to Keep Your Family Sofa Looking New
Even the most durable sofa needs a little care to stay fresh and inviting. With the right habits, you can extend the life of your couch, even in a home full of kids and pets.
Here are some smart maintenance tips to help you protect your investment:
- Vacuum regularly to remove crumbs, fur, and dirt before they become embedded in the fabric
- Spot clean spills immediately with a damp cloth or fabric-safe cleaner to prevent stains from setting
- Use throws or slipcovers in high-traffic areas to minimize wear and tear
- Rotate and fluff cushions to avoid sagging and uneven wear
- Choose sofas with removable, washable couch covers for kids for quick cleanups after messy playdates or snack time
Fabric Choice Helps Your Sofa Maintenance
Material choice highly influences how easy your sofa is to maintain. For example, a durable sofa fabric for pets will better withstand claw marks and roughhousing, while a stain resistant couch material makes cleanup a breeze after accidental spills. An easy to clean sofa fabric for families can save you time and reduce stress.
Some of the best pet-friendly sofa materials include synthetics, treated fabrics, and tight weaves that repel hair and dirt. A microfiber sofa for dogs and cats is especially helpful, as it resists staining, repels pet fur, and can often be cleaned with just water and mild soap.
➜ Learn More: 6 Most Popular Leather Sofa Bed Styles (What's Trending Now)
Kid & Pet Friendly Sofas You Can Buy Right Now
Explore some living room sofa ideas with this review as your upholstery material guide. Below are six standout options of fabric material sofa for households with kids and pets.
Signature Design by Ashley Barnsana Ash Power Reclining Sofa
Shop Signature Design by Ashley Power Reclining Sofa
The Barnsana Power Reclining Sofa by Signature Design by Ashley is built for busy households that need comfort and durability in one.
Upholstered in faux leather with a gently weathered look, it offers a soft touch while resisting daily wear.
Dual power recliners let family members unwind their way, and high-resiliency cushions provide lasting support. A winning feature of this sofa is its wipeable surface that easily clears messes from pets or kids.
Best For: Households with pets and teens
Top Features
- Dual-sided power recline
- Easy-to-clean faux leather
- Supportive, high-resiliency cushions
Signature Design by Ashley Next-Gen DuraPella Sand Power Reclining Sofa with Adjustable Headrest
Shop Signature Design by Ashley Next-Gen Power Reclining Sofa
This Next-Gen DuraPella Sand Power Reclining Sofa delivers the perfect balance of comfort, durability, and modern design for busy homes.
Upholstered in a sand-toned performance fabric, it resists moisture, stains, and daily wear—no worries for families with rambunctious kids or pets.
The dual power recliners and adjustable headrests provide personalized comfort, while the smooth texture and supportive cushions elevate everyday lounging.
Best For: Homeowners with pets or messy toddlers
Top Features
- Moisture- and stain-resistant fabric
- Power recline and adjustable headrests
- Soft, pet-friendly upholstery
Homelegance Brown Microfiber Sofa
Shop Homelegance Brown Microfiber Sofa
Looking for a sofa with overstuffed cushions and padded armrests for the ultimate relaxation?
This Homelegance Brown Microfiber Sofa has it, giving your casual living spaces a touch of elegance while keeping it family-friendly.
Furthermore, the warm tone makes it easy to coordinate with other pieces. Best of all is the material: soft microfiber that stands up well to daily household chaos, resists pet hair, and is simple to maintain. We recommend this for every living room.
Best For: Families with pets and casual lifestyles
Top Features
- Easy-care microfiber upholstery
- Overstuffed seat and back cushions
- Pet- and kid-friendly surface
Signature Design by Ashley Foreside Charcoal Manual Reclining Sofa
Shop Signature Design by Ashley Manual Reclining Sofa
Another standout piece from Signature Design by Ashley, this Foreside Charcoal Manual Reclining Sofa is designed for those looking for durability and simplicity.
Its deep charcoal upholstery, crafted from sturdy fabric, resists stains while maintaining a refined appearance.
Dual manual recline handles let you find your perfect angle, and padded armrests and plush cushions deliver maximum comfort. If you have high-traffic spaces, this sofa will endure.
Best For: Households with active kids or pets
Top Features
- Manual dual recliner
- Stain-resistant, durable fabric
- Plush seating with padded arms
Coaster Avonlea Sofa
If you're craving a classic look with family-ready features, this Coaster Avonlea Sofa is your solution.
Crafted for both comfort and resilience in busy living rooms, its tightly woven upholstery resists spills, pet hair, and daily wear, while roll arms and plush seat cushions create cozy seating.
The supportive back cushions bring a comfy posture for reading or lounging. This sofa’s durable construction and easy-to-clean fabric make it a dependable choice for everyday use.
Best For: Families with kids and pets
Top Features
- Tightly woven, resilient upholstery
- Plush seat and supportive back cushions
- Rolled arms and classic silhouette
➜ Learn More: 8 Perks of The Maytag Pet Pro Washer
Ready to Find the Right Sofa for Your Family?
For busy households, the right fabric material sofa works hard behind the scenes. From movie nights and snack breaks to unexpected spills and zooming pets, your sofa should offer the comfort you crave with the toughness you need. The key is choosing family friendly furniture that blends style with smart design and, most importantly, low-maintenance fabric.
Good news: Urner’s has an excellent selection of sofas made for real life. Our in-store experts and online shopping guide will go through fabric options, cleaning needs, and layouts with you. Find the best couches for durability without giving up comfort or style at Urner's.
No more stressing over muddy paws or messy hands—just a sofa the whole family can enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Look for tightly woven performance fabrics like microfiber, polyester blends, or faux leather. They resist scratches, stains, and wear better than delicate materials.
Go for stain-resistant fabrics with washable or removable covers. Bonus points for darker colors and moisture-repellent finishes.
Yes, microfiber is great for both! It repels most spills and makes pet hair easy to brush off or vacuum.
Absolutely. Many sofas come with removable, machine-washable covers or offer custom-fit slipcovers for easier upkeep.
Durable options like performance velvet, microfiber, polyester blends, or faux leather hold up best in busy spaces with kids and pets.
Why Trust Urner's and Urner's Mattress?
Urner’s started on the back of a bicycle - yup! A bicycle! David E. Urner, a local high school teacher, who spent his summer months selling Wear Ever cookware off the back of a bicycle (think 100+ degrees). David teamed up with another local teacher, Errol P. Janes to create “a new type of store – one that would cater exclusively to providing an easier way of living for the women of Kern County”, and on September 19, 1919, Home Appliance Store was opened to the public. The store boasted a rather impressive selection of “modern” appliances, including a washing machine, a freezer, a gas range, an automatic dishwasher, and an assortment of small appliances. Since then, Urner’s has expanded selections to appliances, furniture, mattresses, and cabinetry!
For nearly one century, the Urner family and Urner’s business have both been an integral part of Bakersfield and Kern County, with contributions to community (Better Business Bureau, Sister City Projects, Bakersfield Symphony), charity (Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude’s Dream Home, House of Hope) and education (CSU Bakersfield, Ray Dezember Leadership Development Center. Explore the website, visit the store, or join us socially. We’re all about home, all about fun, and all about you… and we’re ready to make you a part of the Urner’s family today.
Shop the Best Sofas at Urner’s
Stop by any of the 6 Urner’s and Urner’s Mattress locations in Bakersfield, CA, to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop sofas online! Let our friendly experts guide you to the best sofa—tailored to your living room’s style and space, whether you call us at 661-396-8400, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.