Why Performance Fabric is Considered Supreme Among Designers

Life is beautifully full—but it can also be messy. From children with sticky fingers to pets tracking in mud, daily living can take a toll on your furniture. The question for many homeowners is this: How can I have a beautiful, refined home without worrying about every spill, scratch, or paw print?

The answer lies in one of the most significant advancements in textiles in recent years—performance fabrics. These innovative materials combine durability and beauty, offering both peace of mind and style.

What is Performance Fabric?

Performance fabric refers to upholstery material designed to withstand significant wear while remaining easy to clean. Once reserved for awnings, marine use, and outdoor furniture, these fabrics have evolved into soft, stylish options ideal for high-end interiors.

Today’s performance fabrics allow you to enjoy sophisticated furnishings without sacrificing practicality—perfect for homes where life is lived to the fullest.

The Benefits of Performance Fabric

• Water-resistant

• Stain-resistant

• Mold and mildew-resistant

• Fade-resistant

• Highly durable

• Antimicrobial properties

• Pet-friendly

• Family-friendly

• Environmentally conscious

• Non-toxic and safe

• Quick-drying

• Low static

• Washable and easy to clean

Types of Performance Fabric

Olefin – Inherently resistant to stains, water, mildew, and abrasions without chemical treatment. Easy to clean and available in smooth or textured weaves.

Acrylic – Resists chemicals, mildew, and water. It takes dye beautifully, offering vibrant colors, but is less abrasion-resistant and prone to pilling.

Nylon – Elastic, durable, and resistant to mold, mildew, and shrinkage. It requires treatment to resist stains effectively.

Polyester – Durable, easy to clean, and resistant to water, abrasions, wrinkles, and stretching. However, it can harbor bacteria if not maintained properly.

Maintenance and Care

Address spills immediately by blotting gently with a soft, clean towel.
Follow manufacturer care guidelines to determine whether water-based cleaning or professional dry cleaning is recommended.
For water-safe fabrics, a mild detergent mixed with distilled water can tackle common stains like coffee or wine. Always test in an inconspicuous spot first.
For deeper or set-in stains, consider professional extraction cleaning.
Rotate cushions weekly and schedule professional cleaning annually to maintain the fabric’s beauty and longevity.

The Designer Perspective

Performance fabrics are beloved by designers because they remove the compromise between style and livability. They allow us to specify furnishings that are both luxurious and practical—perfect for busy households that value elevated design.

It’s easy to see why these textiles are a favorite among discerning homeowners and why they’ve earned their place as a staple in modern luxury interiors.