Need opinions on furniture

**mommy4ever** · 04-11-2009, 03:45 PM

We have to replace our furniture soon(a year or so). Our couch fabric has worn right through.

I have no idea what fabric to select. Must be child friendly(home daycare) and pet friendly(2 pooches at about 20 lbs), while the dogs are often allowed on the couch, sometimes, I do snuggle with them

So what are my options? What are your experiences?

**McD** · 04-11-2009, 03:47 PM

I'm a huge fan of microfiber. It's easy to clean and maintain.

**ladykemma2** · 04-12-2009, 12:45 PM

I'm a huge fan of washable custom made slipcovers.

both ethan allen and bassett have a line of sofas that can be washed.

Is the sofa structurally ruined or does it just need to be recovered?

my sofa is sound but the fabric is a mess. I plan this summer to try to make a dark blue denim washable slipcover over the chippendale ball and claw sofa.

**mommy4ever** · 04-12-2009, 01:02 PM

It's still structurally ok, but there are holes in the fabric. It's an odd shaped couch, so I haven't been able to find covers for them.

**Debbie-cat** · 04-12-2009, 02:18 PM

Can you make covers for them? If it is just the seats and not the back or arms, it could probably be easily done.

**Judi Dial** · 04-12-2009, 06:09 PM

Try homereserve.com? I first heard about them from someone here. Not only are their products reasonable, but they have pet friendly fabrics and replacement bits available too.

Judi

**YankeeMom** · 04-12-2009, 06:33 PM

Our sofa is chenille. It sounds fragile and expensive, but it's not. We've had the sofa for 7 yrs now and it has held up under THIRTEEN animals (the most has been 7 at once) and four kids. I've only had to have it cleaned once...and that was pure maintenance.

**MyMelody** · 04-25-2009, 06:27 PM

It might be cheaper to get them reupholstered. I have a small couch and a wingback recliner that no slipcovers would fit, and I paid about $500 to have them recovered by Abilities UNlimited (who offer jobs and training for adults with disabilities) a few years ago, and that was including fabric, labor, and toss pillows. Call around and get some quotes, and if all else fails, call the automotive upholsterers, too! Upholstery fabric is expensive per yard, so ask how many yards you need and then try to find some for cheap on eBay if the upholsterer is willing to work with you in that way.

Another option would be having custom made washable slipcovers and cushion covers made, either by a local seamstress or online (there are websites where you can submit your measurements and have them mailed to you).

**Sara Noel** · 04-25-2009, 06:31 PM

Originally Posted by YankeeMom

Our sofa is chenille. It sounds fragile and expensive, but it's not. We've had the sofa for 7 yrs now and it has held up under THIRTEEN animals (the most has been 7 at once) and four kids. I've only had to have it cleaned once...and that was pure maintenance.

I have chenille too. It's held up wonderfully. Our family is not light on furniture and it's just starting to show wear after 8 years. The cushion covers have a zipper, so I've been able to wash them.

I chose a dark green that almost looks brown. Or is it a brown that looks green? LOL Anyway, it's been a great choice. Our set is Broyhill.

**rainbowgc** · 04-26-2009, 12:53 PM

if your heart is set on new microfiber is probably the best in your circumstance. If you want to recover - I have got a lot of great deals at:
www.fabricguru.com
It has been my secret place but since I am done decorating it's time to share with FV LOL
BTW shipping is only $4.95 no matter how much you buy.