When you have kids, pets — or both — you need furniture and furnishings that look great and hold up to real life. From sticky fingers to muddy paws and the occasional spill, your fabric choices matter.
Here’s a guide to the best types of fabrics for busy households in New Zealand, whether you're choosing upholstery, cushions, squabs, or curtains.
🐾 1. Choose Fabrics That Are Durable
Look for fabrics with a high rub count (Martindale rating) — this measures how well the fabric holds up to wear. For families with kids or pets, we recommend:
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Heavy-duty polyester or poly-blends
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Performance fabrics designed for stain and abrasion resistance
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Commercial-grade velvet or chenille with a tight weave
Avoid loosely woven fabrics that can snag easily or trap fur.
🧼 2. Opt for Easy-to-Clean Materials
Accidents happen. That’s why it’s important to choose fabrics that can handle:
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Spot cleaning or gentle washing
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Moisture or spill resistance
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Steam cleaning (for upholstery)
We offer a range of washable and stainproof fabrics suitable for cushion covers, squabs and family sofas — ideal for everyday mess.
🌞 3. Consider UV Resistance for Sunny Rooms
If your furniture is near windows or doors, fading can be an issue. Choose:
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UV-stabilised fabrics that resist fading
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Solution-dyed acrylics for indoor/outdoor spaces
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Curtain linings that protect your upholstery from sun damage
This is especially important in sunny NZ homes where exposure is high.
🐶 4. Choose Fabrics That Hide Fur and Marks
Neutral tones with texture can be a lifesaver:
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Mid-tone greys, taupes or patterned fabrics hide dirt and hair better than plain darks or lights
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Fabrics with a subtle pattern or weave are more forgiving
Bonus: textures like soft basketweave or fine chenille feel cosy without being high-maintenance.
✅ Best Fabric Types for Family-Friendly Living
| Fabric | Good for | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester blends | Sofas, chairs, squabs | Durable, easy-clean, cost-effective |
| Solution-dyed acrylic | Indoor/outdoor cushions | Fade-resistant and water-repellent |
| Crypton or performance fabric | Upholstery, armchairs | Stain-resistant and family-proof |
| Commercial-grade velvet | Sofas, headboards | Soft and strong, with added glam |
| Denim or canvas | Floor cushions, squabs | Tough and casual, ideal for kids’ zones |
🛠️ Want Help Choosing the Right Fabric?
At Blanchetts, we’ll help you select the best fabric for your lifestyle from our large fabric library — and we’ll guide you on:
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Upholstery upgrades
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New cushion covers
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Motorhome or squab fabrics
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Family-friendly curtains or roman blinds
📍 Visit us at 58 Napier Road, Palmerston North
📧 Email for a fabric consult: info@blanchetts.com
🌐 www.blanchetts.com