How to Choose the Best Fabric for Your Dining Chairs and Sofas

When it comes to personalizing your furniture, one of the most exciting decisions is choosing the fabric. From cozy dinners to family movie nights, finding the best fabric for dining chairs and sofas means combining comfort, durability, and style in one thoughtful choice.

But with so many options out there..standard? crypton? leather?—how do you know what’s right for your lifestyle?

Let’s break it down, starting with the dining room.

Dining Chair Fabric Options

Dining chairs get a lot of use. Think spills, scuffs, crumbs, and cozy conversations that stretch into the night. So when choosing the best fabric for dining chairs, durability and cleanability are key.

Here are three common types of fabrics to consider:

1. STANDARD FABRICS

These are high-quality fabrics that come with specific abrasion levels and washability codes. Look for a fabric that matches the kind of use your dining space gets.

Abrasion Levels: 

  • M – Medium Duty
  • H – Heavy Duty (15,000+ double rubs is considered heavy duty; some go up to 100,000)

Washability Codes:

  • W – Clean with water-based solutions
  • S – Use solvent-based cleaners or dry clean
  • W/S – Both water or solvent-based cleaners work
  • X – Vacuum or light dry brushing only
  • D – Dry clean only

2. CRYPTON FABRICS

Imagine an invisible shield on your chair. That’s basically Crypton—a performance fabric that resists stains, moisture, and odors thanks to its top-layer coating. Perfect for homes with kids, pets, or dinner parties.

3. REVOLUTION FABRICS

Made from recycled plastic, Revolution fabrics are a smart and eco-friendly option. They’re durable, easy to clean, and made to last without compromising on comfort.

Sofa & Upholstery Fabric Options

The type of sofa you choose, stationary or reclining can influence your fabric options.

Stationary Sofas

Some of our favorite stationary sofas feature performance fabrics (like polypropylene or polyester) and even include a hint of linen for added texture. Many of these fabrics are priced within the standard category so you’re not sacrificing quality for cost.

Want something totally unique? You can even bring your own fabric to make your piece one-of-a-kind.

Reclining Sofas

Leather is king here when it comes to reclining sofas. You’ll usually find a mix of:

  • Ultra Leather: A synthetic option, sleek, but not quite as rugged

  • Genuine Leather: Real cowhide that brings classic appeal and long-term durability

Some of our builders are a bit like coffee connoisseurs… but for leather. Ask us about Italian leathers if you want top-tier quality.

Tips to Help You Choose

Choosing fabric doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few simple steps to help you get started:

  • Bring Your Samples: Paint swatches, flooring, tile or anything from your space that helps us match the tone and mood.

  • Take Fabric Swatches Home: See how the fabric looks in your lighting, with your colors, in your home.

  • Ask Questions: Our sales team knows their stuff and can help you weigh the pros and cons based on your space and lifestyle.

  • Take Your Time: You’re building something meaningful. Don’t rush, when you know, you know.

When you’re trying to decide on the best fabric for dining chairs and sofas, remember that it’s about more than looks—it’s about how you live. Whether you’re raising little ones, hosting big meals, or sinking into your sofa at the end of a long day, your fabric should fit your story.

At King’s Amish Furniture, we’re here to help you create a space that feels like you. 

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