Let’s face it, no matter how much we love our furry friends when it comes to home design it can feel like a battle. That high-end coffee table you just bought looks stunning to you, but to your pet, it’s the perfect chew toy or scratching post.
That’s why when you shop for new furnishings and decor it may be hard to know where to start. You want something that looks great, but also will be suitable for your pet. Can you have the best of both worlds?
The answer is yes. The best pet-friendly furniture will depend on the type of pet(s) you have and your lifestyle, however, our guide will help you make the best decisions when buying new furnishings.
What to Look For in Pet-friendly Furniture?
There are a few key things you’ll want to be looking for when buying pet-friendly furnishings. Essentially you’ll want to select fabrics and materials that are durable and easy to clean. Some of the main characteristics in these materials will be:
● Scratch-resistance – Ask can this piece or material be stretched easily? Because of pets’ claws, you’ll want to avoid anything prone to scratches. Go for materials that specify they are scratch-resistant.
● Hair is easy to remove – Unless your pet is hypoallergenic, it will shed and get hair on your furniture. That’s why you’ll want to look for materials that are easy to remove hair from. Anything with a tight weave should work.
● Stain-resistance – Pets make messes, whether it’s dirt, drool, or potty accidents your best bet is to look for pieces that are resistant to stains and easy to clean.
What Materials Are Pet-friendly?
So now you know what features to look for in general let’s review in more detail what types of materials are pet-friendly.
● Leather – This is a great option because it’s durable and easy to clean. Spills and messes can be wiped off easily. It can get scratched but hides scratches well, as leather is one of those fabrics that gets better as it ages. If you’re worried about scratches go for a piece that is already in a worn leather.
● Performance fabrics – Originally developed for outdoor use, but now available for indoor furnishings as well, performance fabrics are designed to be stain-resistant, durable, and easy to clean. Perfect to withstand pets.
● Microfiber and synthetics – These fabrics are made with a very tight weave, so they are very strong and durable meaning they hold up well to wear and tear. Microfiber is both water and stain-resistant so it’s very easy to clean.
What Materials Are Not Pet-Friendly?
While we’ve covered the materials you should be looking out for, it’s also helpful to know what to avoid. In short, anything that is not very durable or is difficult to clean. So what sorts of fabrics fall into this category?
● Natural woven materials – Materials like rattan or jute can attract chewing and scratching. Jute also traps pet messes and is difficult to clean.
● Any upholstery with an open weave – Like with jute, any fabrics with loose weave will trap dirt and can get snagged easily.
● Silk – Though beautiful, silk is very delicate and can stain and rip easily.
● Suede – Even though suede is a durable option, it doesn’t hold up to liquids as it stains easily and is hard to clean.
● Velvet – Velvet unfortunately is a magnet for pet hair, so it’s one that you’ll want to avoid.
If you love the look of any of these fabrics, then go for a performance or synthetic version instead, which fortunately many companies now offer.
Other Pet-Friendly Design Tips
With the above information, you’re ready to start shopping for furnishings that find the balance of style and function. When you’re designing your space, here are a few other pet-related tips to keep in mind:
● Give them their own space – Having a dedicated spot (or spots) in your home that are set up for your pet will help keep them off the furniture. That comfortable sofa will be less tempting when your dog has a cozy bed. Or if your cat has a scratching post, it won’t go right to your favorite chair.
● Select colors with your pet in mind – Especially if you have a pet that sheds frequently think about picking your furniture in colors that can help disguise their fur.
● Go for patterned fabric – If you’re worried about scratch marks, then fabric with a pattern can help hide scratches.
● Use throw blankets – Covering furnishings with stylish washable throw blankets is another easy way to add some extra protection to your furnishings.
For more on this subject, check out our articles on pet-friendly design solutions and durable sofa materials.
If you’re an animal lover and want to give back, check out the top pet charities in NYC.
Want some dedicated help to design your home with your pets’ needs in mind? At AHG Interiors we create custom design solutions for our clients. Contact us, if you’re ready to get started.
