material: If you're looking for a sofa cover that both protects your sofa and is comfortable enough to lounge on, there are a few materials and constructions that make the most sense. According to Sean Cormier, director of textile development and marketing at the New York Fashion Institute of Technology and former director of textile quality at SureFit, the main thing to look for in pet products is durability. For this reason, he recommends polyester or heavy cotton canvas as the best material options, and if you're looking for something less expensive, polyester is the way to go.
A dense, thick polyester weave is durable – not easily torn by rambunctious dogs – but if you want a stain-resistant polyester fabric, Cormier says you should look for an anti-microbial fabric with a stain-resistant coating. says Mr. If you want a natural, breathable material, Cormier suggests his canvas, a durable cotton with a weight comparable to heavy denim.
For a sofa cover that protects against spills and accidents, look for a cover with a waterproof or water-resistant lining or membrane. This will prevent the liquid from pooling on the surface and seeping into the sofa, but keep in mind that you will need to clean the liquid before it drips onto the floor.
Ease of maintenance: Machine washing is the easiest way to clean fabrics that have been soiled or dampened by pets. Some sofa covers can also be tumble dried on a low setting, but to maintain the shape and size of the material we recommend washing in cold water and laying flat or line drying to dry. .
In general, sofa covers should be cleaned every 1 to 2 weeks using standard laundry detergent and fabric softener, as often as bed sheets, pillowcases, and blankets. If you need even more odor-eliminating power, add a cup of distilled white vinegar to the washing machine with your sofa cover and launder as usual.
fit: Sofa covers come in a variety of fits, from completely custom pieces that zip onto each cushion to oversized blankets that cover the entire sofa. As for which fit is best, it comes down to personal preference. If you tend to adjust your position frequently or get irritated by a crumpled look, we recommend a sofa cover that fits snugly over the entire sofa or each cushion. Some covers feature a non-slip lining on the underside of the fabric to prevent slipping and sliding, while others stay in place thanks to a snug fit and elastic bottom. there is.
aesthetics: A sofa is often the main focal point of a living room, so keep aesthetics in mind when choosing a cover. Luckily, there are plenty of stylish options on the market to protect your sofa from spills, scratches, and accidents. Custom options are your best bet when it comes to looks, as they're more likely to fit snugly and properly over the entire sofa or individual cushions, have fewer wrinkles, and look like a new sofa.
However, if your home has a more laid-back vibe, a slipcover with a tie-down or an oversized blanket is a great option. If you want to cover the entire sofa, you can also define the seat and cushions with slipcover holders to keep the fabric in place.
