Upholstery Fabric Guide
Fabric Durability & Rub Tests
When you choose upholstery fabric you"ll want something that stands up to the stresses and strains of everyday life. Fabrics for a private home are rarely used as heavily as those in commercial interiors, but durability still matters.
What Is a Rub Test?
The textile industry uses abrasion, or rub, tests to assess how well a fabric will stand up to wear and tear. The two main international tests are:
- Martindale Test – most widely used in Europe and the UK.
- Wyzenbeek Test – more common in North America.
Because the rubbing methods are different, you can"t reliably convert one score into the other; some fabrics perform better in one test than the other. Higher-end manufacturers will often quote both scores in their specifications.
The Martindale Fabric Rating Explained
In the Martindale test, discs oscillate sandpaper or wool across the surface of the fabric until it shows signs of distress or wear. The result is given as the number of thousands of rub cycles completed (usually in 5,000-cycle intervals).
As a general guide:
- Delicate / decorative use – up to 10,000 rubs. Accent cushions, curtains, light-use pieces.
- Light use – 10,000–15,000 rubs. More delicate fibres (e.g. silk) for occasional chairs.
- Moderate domestic use – around 15,000–25,000 rubs. Most everyday household furniture.
- Heavy use / contract – 30,000+ rubs. Hard-wearing fabrics suitable for commercial or very heavy domestic use.
The Wyzenbeek Fabric Rating Explained
The Wyzenbeek, or double rub, test mounts the fabric in a frame and rubs it along the warp and weft using either a heavy cotton duck cloth or a wire mesh. Wire mesh is more abrasive, so scores from wire tests are lower than cotton duck scores, even when the fabric is very durable.
Again, scores are usually given in 5,000 double-rub intervals. As a rough guide:
- Delicate / decorative – up to 3,000 double rubs.
- Light use – 3,000–9,000 double rubs.
- Moderate domestic use – 9,000–15,000 double rubs.
- Heavy use / contract – 30,000+ double rubs (or 15,000+ for wire-mesh tests).
Any fabric above these heavy-use thresholds is considered highly abrasion resistant.
Limits of Rub Tests
Rub tests are extremely useful, but they don"t tell the whole story:
- A high Martindale or Wyzenbeek score doesn"t mean the fabric will never show visible wear; it simply measures the integrity of the fabric structure.
- Rub tests don"t account for other factors such as sunlight and UV, harsh cleaning chemicals, pet claws, spills or scuffs.
Thread Count, Weave & Fabric Quality
Another specification relevant to durability is thread count – the number of threads per square inch in a woven fabric. A higher thread count usually indicates a tighter weave and more durable cloth. However, it"s only meaningful when comparing fabrics made from the same type of yarn: silk threads, for example, are much finer than wool yarns and cannot be packed as tightly.
Durability is also influenced by:
- The quality of the yarns and dyes used
- The way a fabric is woven or finished
- Higher-quality fabrics from established fabric houses tend to use better raw materials and dyes, and are generally more resilient to sunlight, cleaning and daily life than cheaper alternatives.
Upholstery Fabric Classifications & Uses
Upholstery fabrics are often grouped into broad categories, each suited to different levels of use:
- Non-Upholstery Fabric – not intended for furniture, but ideal for curtains, blinds and decorative cushions.
- Occasional Use Upholstery Fabric – for furniture that is sat on from time to time, but not every day.
- General / Moderate Use Upholstery Fabric – the most common class for everyday household furniture.
- Contract / Heavy Use Upholstery Fabric – hard-wearing fabrics designed for commercial settings and very heavy domestic use.
Manufacturers vary in their exact terminology, so always read the full fabric specification. Within each classification there can still be a wide range of quality and rub test scores.
To translate this into real rooms:
- Family sofas and main armchairs – look for upholstery fabrics in the general or heavy-use categories.
- Occasional chairs and bedroom pieces – consider occasional upholstery fabrics or more delicate weaves.
- Headboards and bed frames – lower wear, so you can explore headboard fabrics and more delicate designs.
Popular Upholstery Fabric Types
There are many upholstery fabric types; a few of the most common include:
Cotton and Cotton Blends
Breathable and comfortable with a natural feel. Can crease and may be more prone to staining without treatment, but a good all-rounder for relaxed schemes.
Linen and Linen Mixes
Beautifully relaxed and cool to the touch, ideal for informal interiors. Expect natural slubbing and creasing – part of linen"s character rather than a fault.
Velvet (cotton, viscose, polyester)
Luxurious with rich depth of colour. Cotton and viscose velvets feel very soft but can be more delicate; modern polyester velvets are often highly durable and stain-resistant while retaining the look of cotton velvet.
Chenille
Soft, tactile yarns with a slightly fuzzy surface that work well on sofas and armchairs. Comforting to touch and generally robust for family living.
Wool & Tweed
Warm, naturally fire-resistant and durable, with a tailored look. A great choice for classic interiors, reading chairs and snug spaces.
Performance & Treated Fabrics
Engineered to resist stains and heavy wear, making them ideal for busy family homes, rental properties and contract use.
The right choice depends on how the piece will be used, the look you want to achieve, and any practical constraints such as pets or young children.
Pattern, Scale and Direction
Pattern choice is just as important as durability:
Pattern scale
Large-scale designs make a statement on generous pieces such as sofas, armchairs and headboards. Smaller-scale patterns are often better suited to compact furniture like dining chairs and footstools, where you want the design to read clearly.
Pattern placement
Pile direction
For velvets and piled fabrics, the direction of the pile will change how the colour appears. Your upholsterer can advise whether the pile should run up or down the piece for the best look and wear.
Fire Retardant Requirements for Upholstery
Each country has its own laws governing the use of fabrics for upholstery. In the UK, for example, upholstery originally made after 1950 is subject to the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations, which apply when re-covering sofas, chairs, nursery furniture, headboards and similar items.
As general guidance:
- Curtains, blinds, bed covers and cushions are usually outside these regulations in domestic settings, but may be subject to stricter requirements in commercial or public spaces.
- Additional rules apply to hotels, nurseries, care homes, yachts, public buildings and other high-risk or vulnerable interiors.
- If you are upholstering furniture yourself, always check the regulations that apply in your region, or work with a professional upholsterer who understands the rules.
Fire Retardancy Ratings
Manufacturers usually show a fabric"s fire performance in the product specification. Typical labels include:
- Not Rated / Unrated – the fabric has not been tested. It is usually unsuitable for upholstery unless treated with an appropriate fire-retardant finish (which is not suitable for all fabrics – for example very fine fabrics, voiles, polyesters, acetates and some velvets).
- Requires a Barrier Cloth – the fabric can be used for upholstery if combined with a compliant interliner (such as a Schedule 3 barrier cloth in the UK). These tests typically simulate a smouldering cigarette and are often used for fabrics with a high proportion of natural fibres.
- Match Tested – the fabric has passed a naked flame test and is generally suitable for ordinary domestic upholstery, but not necessarily for commercial premises or public buildings.
- Crib 5 – the fabric meets higher standards (such as BS5852:1990 in the UK) and is usually required for commercial and public interiors, or other areas where additional fire protection is needed.
If you are unsure, it"s always safest to take professional advice. Local fire officers, health and safety professionals, or official government guidance can be useful starting points.
How TM Interiors Can Help
Furniture and made-to-measure items supplied by TM Interiors are produced to comply with the relevant UK regulations for domestic use as standard. If you need fabrics for commercial or public spaces, let our customer support team know when you order so we can:
- Recommend suitable contract upholstery fabrics
- Arrange fire-retardant treatments where appropriate
- Ensure the correct barrier cloths and fillings are specified
Caring for Upholstery Fabrics
Good care can significantly extend the life of your upholstery:
- Vacuum regularly using an upholstery attachment to remove dust and grit from the surface and crevices.
- Blot spills immediately rather than rubbing, and always follow the care instructions for your specific fabric.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and over-wetting, which can damage fibres and finishes.
- Where possible, rotate and flip cushions so wear is spread evenly.
- Protect fabrics from intense direct sunlight to minimise fading, especially on darker or more saturated colours.
Your upholsterer or our team can advise on suitable cleaning methods and products for particular fabric types.
Samples, Reupholstery and Design Support
Before you commit to an upholstery fabric, we always recommend ordering samples to see the colour, texture and pattern in your own space and light. This is particularly important for large items such as sofas and headboards.
If you are re-covering existing furniture:
- A professional upholsterer can advise on fabric suitability, fire regulations, and how much fabric you need.
- We can work with your upholsterer to ensure the correct treatments and barrier cloths are specified.
If you would like help choosing fabrics or planning a scheme, our team can offer design advice and suggest upholstery fabrics from leading designers that fit your style, budget and practical needs.
Featured Upholstery Collections
To help you get started, here are a few of our favourite upholstery-ready fabric collections:
Linwood Omega Upholstery Fabric
The Linwood Omega collection offers a range of sumptuous, richly coloured velvets designed specifically for upholstery. Woven in durable polyester, they retain the luxurious look and feel of cotton velvet while being highly practical and stain-resistant – ideal for family sofas, armchairs and footstools.
Casamance Paddington Upholstery Fabric
The Casamance Paddington collection is a playful mix of smart stripes, bold geometrics and abstract designs. These characterful weaves and prints are perfect for adding pattern and personality to upholstery, from tailored dining chairs to standout occasional chairs.
Zoffany Kensington Walk Upholstery Fabrics
Zoffany"s Kensington Walk collection brings together three distinct stories – Eastern Palace, Paradise Row and Artist"s House – across a range of sophisticated upholstery fabrics. Produced using the finest materials, artisan techniques and modern processes, these designs are ideal for creating layered, luxurious schemes.
Mulberry Home Long Weekend Upholstery Fabrics
The Mulberry Home Long Weekend collection is an eclectic mix of prints, stripes, embroideries and velvets. Inspired by the golden age of English country house parties in the 1920s and 1930s, the fabrics combine a sense of adventure and exoticism with relaxed, indulgent comfort – perfect for statement upholstery pieces.
Browse upholstery fabrics by colour
Upholstery Fabric FAQs
Q1. What Martindale rating do I need for a family sofa?
For a main family sofa or everyday armchairs, we generally recommend a Martindale rating of at least 20,000 rubs, and ideally 25,000+ if the piece will get heavy use. Fabrics marked for general or heavy domestic use, or contract upholstery, are usually the safest options. You can always choose a higher rating than you need, but avoid using delicate, low-rated fabrics on furniture that will be sat on every day.
Q2. Can I use curtain fabric to upholster furniture?
Curtain fabrics are often lighter weight and not designed to withstand the same level of abrasion as upholstery cloth. Some multi-purpose fabrics are suitable for both curtains and light-use upholstery, but you should only use a fabric for upholstery if the manufacturer states it is appropriate. Otherwise, it may wear, fray or fail prematurely, and may not meet the required fire regulations.
Q3. Which fabrics are best if I have pets or young children?
For busy homes, look for tightly woven, hard-wearing fabrics with good rub test ratings. Performance velvets, durable chenilles and practical weaves in man-made fibres are often good choices. Avoid very open weaves, loose bouclés or highly textured yarns that claws can catch on. No fabric is completely pet-proof, but a robust weave and sensible colour choice will help your upholstery look good for longer.
Q4. What"s the difference between Martindale and Wyzenbeek tests?
Both tests measure abrasion resistance, but they use different methods. Martindale rubs the fabric in a circular motion with wool or sandpaper, while Wyzenbeek rubs the fabric back and forth along the warp and weft using cotton duck or wire mesh. Because the stresses applied are different, you can"t directly convert a Martindale score into a Wyzenbeek score, but in both systems higher numbers indicate greater resistance to wear.
Q5. Do I need fire-retardant fabric for my home?
In the UK, any upholstered furniture made after 1950 must comply with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations, which set standards for covers, fillings and interliners. Fabrics used for curtains, blinds, bedcovers and cushions are usually outside these rules in domestic settings. If you"re unsure whether a fabric is suitable or what treatments are required, it"s best to consult a professional upholsterer or speak to our team for guidance.
Q6. How much fabric do I need to re-cover a sofa or chair?
The amount of fabric required depends on the size and shape of the furniture, whether the piece has loose or fixed cushions, and whether the fabric is plain or patterned. As a rough guide, a small armchair may need 5–7 metres of fabric, while a large three-seater sofa can require 12–16 metres or more. Because every piece is different, we always recommend checking the measurements with your upholsterer before ordering fabric.