Living with pets brings joy and companionship, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining a clean and stylish living space. From playful paws to unexpected accidents, pet owners need dog-friendly furniture that can withstand the demands of their four-legged companions.

In this guide, we’ll explore effective ways to clean and care for your sofa when you have pets and delve into the considerations when choosing the right type of sofa for your pet-friendly home.

Jump to:

• • How to Clean and Care for Your Sofa When You Have Pets

  • What Type of Sofa Should You Buy If You Have Pets?

How to Clean and Care for Your Sofa When You Have Pets

Pets can leave their mark on your furniture, but with the right cleaning routine, you can learn how to clean your furniture at home and keep your sofa looking and smelling fresh.

Some furniture warranties, like our 5-year accidental stain and damage protection through Zucaro, cover pet stains, offering peace of mind to pet owners.

Here are some considerations for maintaining a pet-friendly sofa:

Regular Maintenance:

Regular vacuuming is a must to keep pet hair in check. Regularly brushing your pet can also reduce shedding, minimizing the chances of fur becoming embedded in your furniture.

Fabric:

Fabric sofas can be challenging to clean when stained. Blot (do not rub) all spills immediately with a clean, dry white cloth. Spot clean according to the instructions on the label, located on or under the seating deck.

Invest in pet-friendly furniture accessories, such as removable covers or throw blankets that are machine washable, or choose high-performance fabrics that resist stains. Regularly check and clean any removable covers according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Leather:

Leather furniture may not be waterproof furniture; however, leather furniture has a degree of natural water resistance. Leather is a dog-friendly furniture option as it is stain-resistant and generally easy to clean. A damp cloth can usually handle most spills or accidents. However, be mindful of scratches, as leather is susceptible to them.

View our full cleaning and care guide.

What Type of Sofa Should You Buy If You Have Pets?

Choosing the right sofa for a pet-friendly home involves weighing the pros and cons of different materials.

Durable Fabrics:

While no fabric is entirely pet-proof, some are more durable than others. Fabrics such as 100% polyesters with a tight weave, like microfibers and velvets, are more pet-friendly and less likely to snag with claws.

Investing in fabrics with built-in stain protection, like Performance Fabrics, can be a game-changer for pet owners. These fabrics help repel and resist stains and odours, providing an extra layer of defence against pet-related mishaps.

Furniture with Performance Fabrics, like Crypton, are available through Chervin Furniture & Design. Reach out to our team for information.

Leather Options:

Leather, while prone to scratches, is generally a more dog-friendly furniture option. Leather furniture is better at resisting stains and is easy to clean with a damp cloth.

Fully corrected and finished leathers are more scratch-resistant, making them a suitable choice for homes with pets. However, it’s essential to note that individual pets may have unique preferences – some cats may love the feel of leather and decide to scratch at it, while others may hate the feel.

Learn more about the ways of leather.

Consider Allergies:

Fabric tends to trap pet hair and allergens, while leather repels pet hairs from sticking. If allergies are a concern, leather may be a better pet-friendly furniture option for you and your four-legged friends.

In conclusion, creating a pet-friendly home doesn’t mean sacrificing style and cleanliness. By choosing the right sofa materials and implementing a consistent cleaning routine, you can enjoy a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living space with your furry friends.

Whether it’s investing in scratch-resistant leathers or stain-repellent fabrics, finding the perfect balance ensures both you and your pets can coexist harmoniously in your home. Whether choosing fabric or leather, our furniture stores in Waterloo Region has many options for you to choose from.

Need help Selecting your Dog-Friendly Furniture?

Our team is here to help you select the perfect upholstered pet-friendly furniture piece—whether it’s fabric or leather—that aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle.

Reach out to our team for a FREE design consultation!