With 69% of Australian households owning pets, selecting furniture that caters to the needs of both pets and their owners is paramount. Pet owners juggle the demands of furniture that must endure scratches, pet hair, odour, and spills without sacrificing style or comfort. Pet-friendly furniture has therefore evolved to feature fabrics and designs that are durable, washable, scratch-resistant, and odour-resistant, perfect for maintaining a stylish and functional home environment.

Best Fabrics for Pet-Friendly Furniture

Microfiber

Microfiber is prized for its tightly woven texture that resists scratches, stains, and excessive fur buildup. This fabric’s suede-like feel discourages cats from scratching, while its dense weave is less likely to trap pet hair and allergens. Microfiber sofas and chairs are a favourite among Australian pet owners due to their balance of comfort and practicality.

Leather

Genuine leather is naturally durable, easy to clean, and resists pet hair and odours. While not impervious to scratches, leather develops a patina over time that can disguise minor claw marks. Its smooth surface prevents pet hair from embedding, and spills can simply be wiped away, making leather one of the most dog-proof and cat scratch-resistant couch materials available in Australia.

Canvas

Canvas fabric offers exceptional resistance to wear and tear, ideal for households with active pets. It does not attract pet hair and is generally washable, especially when used as a slipcover. Canvas provides a casual, laid-back aesthetic while offering practicality for pet owners who prioritise easy maintenance.

Velvet

Surprisingly pet-friendly, velvet’s dense pile helps conceal claw marks while providing a soft lounging surface for pets. It is somewhat stain-resistant and easy to spot-clean, making it a great option for owners who want to mix elegance with pet durability.

Denim

Denim’s twill weave is robust and resistant to scratching and chewing, offering a casual and pet-proof option. Its durability and ease of cleaning make denim a smart choice for homes with playful pets.

Performance Fabrics (Crypton, Sunbrella, FibreGuard)

Specialty performance fabrics have revolutionised pet-friendly upholstery. Treated to resist stains, odours, and bacterial build-up, these fabrics prevent pet hair from sticking and are easy to clean. FibreGuard, Crypton, and Sunbrella fabrics are highly durable, making them perfect for busy Australian households with pets. They also incorporate non-toxic treatments safe for pets.

Materials Pros and Cons for Pet Owners

Material	Pros	Cons
Microfiber	Durable, stain-resistant, repels pet hair, easy to clean	It can attract dust and lint, less durable than leather
Leather	Durable, easy to clean, resistant to pet hair and odours	Scratches easily, more expensive, can feel cold in winter
Canvas	Strong, easy to wash, hides pet hair well	Limited colours and textures can be rough
Velvet	Soft, hides scratches, easy to vacuum pet hair	Fibres can crush, need regular cleaning, and can be expensive
Denim	Very durable, scratch-resistant, casual and easy to clean	Heavier fabric, limited style options
Performance Fabric	Stain and odour resistant, antimicrobial, and very durable	Synthetic (less eco-friendly), the upfront cost can be higher

Key Features to Consider for Pet Owners

Scratch Resistance

Choose fabrics that have tight weaves and reinforced stitching to withstand the sharp claws of cats and active dogs. Materials like microfiber, leather, and performance fabrics excel in this regard.

Washability

Removable and machine-washable cushion covers are a godsend for pet owners. They make cleaning fur, stains, and spills easy and can significantly extend the lifespan of sofas and chairs.

Odour Resistance

Pet-friendly furniture often includes fabrics and treatments that inhibit odour retention from fur, dander, and pets themselves, keeping the home fresh and inviting.

Durability

Upholstery with a high Martindale rating (above 100,000 cycles) can endure the daily rigours of pets jumping, scratching, and lounging without quick wear.

Comfort for Pets

Don’t overlook the comfort factor for your pets; plush, soft, and warm materials encourage pets to rest peacefully, reducing their tendency to scratch or damage furniture.

Pet-Accommodating Furniture Designs

Integrated Pet Spaces

Some couches and lounges incorporate built-in pet beds or dedicated spots where pets can relax safely. This creates a designated area for pets, lessening damage to other furniture zones.

Modular and Slipcovered Furniture

Furniture pieces with removable covers or modular construction allow easy cleaning and replacement of damaged parts, making maintenance straightforward and cost-effective.

Raised Legs for Easy Cleaning

Sofas with raised legs facilitate easy vacuuming under the furniture, preventing the buildup of fur and dirt. This design also helps give pets cozy spaces to retreat.

Smooth Surface and Minimal Seams

Fewer seams and smooth upholstery reduce places where pet hair, dirt, or liquids can accumulate, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.

Popular Pet-Friendly Furniture Types in Australia

Microfiber Sofas

With their dense weave and high durability, microfiber sofas are well-suited for Australian pet owners who want a balance of softness and resilience.

Leather Lounges

Leather remains a top pick for pet owners because of its easy-to-clean surface and ability to age gracefully despite minor scratches.

Outdoor-Style Furniture Indoors

Furniture designed for outdoor use, such as metal or teak-framed sofas with washable cushions, offers excellent durability and is increasingly used indoors in pet-friendly homes.

Slipcovered Sofas and Armchairs

Fabric slipcovers in pet-resistant materials like cotton blends or canvas allow easy washing and quick furniture refreshes.

Low-Profile Upholstery with Textured Patterns

Patterns and textured upholstery hide pet hair and minor marks better than flat weaves and plain colours. Mid-tone shades such as greys, browns, and charcoals are popular for camouflaging fur.

Product Recommendations for Australian Pet Owners

• Sofas upholstered in FibreGuard fabric, offering scratch resistance and easy cleaning.
• Leather lounges from brands that treat leather to enhance scratch and odour resistance.
• Modular sofas with washable slipcovers made from Crypton or Sunbrella fabrics.
• Outdoor-style metal-framed lounges with removable cushions in waterproof and washable fabrics.
• Couches with built-in pet beds or integrated storage for pet toys and accessories.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Pet-Friendly Furniture

To prolong the life and maintain the appearance of your pet-friendly furniture, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential. Below are step-by-step tips tailored for pet owners.

1. Routine Vacuuming

• Use an upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
• Vacuum all fabric surfaces thoroughly at least once a week.
• Pay special attention to seams and corners where hair often accumulates.

2. Spot Cleaning

• For spills or pet accidents, blot immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb moisture.
• Use mild soap and lukewarm water to gently clean the area; avoid harsh chemicals that may damage fabrics or be toxic to pets.
• For microfiber, a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth can help lift stains effectively.

3. Washing Removable Covers

• Remove slipcovers or cushion covers regularly for machine washing as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use pet-safe detergents to avoid skin irritation for pets.
• Air-dry covers to preserve fabric integrity.

4. Leather Care

• Wipe down leather surfaces weekly with a damp cloth to remove pet hair and dust.
• Use a leather conditioner every 6 months to keep leather supple and prevent cracking.
• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or sunlight that can dry out the leather.

5. Preventing Scratches and Damage

• Provide scratching posts and pet beds away from furniture to divert pets from claws and nail biting.
• Trim pets’ nails regularly to reduce the severity of scratches.
• Use washable throws or blankets on sofas to protect upholstery surfaces.

6. Odour Control

• Sprinkle baking soda on fabric furniture; leave for 15 minutes, then vacuum to neutralise pet odours.
• Use enzyme-based pet odour removers safe for upholstery on accident spots.
• Maintain good ventilation and clean pet bedding frequently.

Choosing the Right Style

Australian pet owners do not need to sacrifice style for functionality. Contemporary, coastal, and minimalist styles can all be achieved with pet-friendly fabrics and designs. The key is selecting durable materials, practical upholstery colours, and thoughtful furniture shapes that align with your home’s aesthetic and your pet’s needs.

In summary, pet-friendly furniture for Australian homes should combine durability, easy maintenance, and comfort. Fabrics like microfiber, leather, canvas, velvet, and performance textiles meet these criteria effectively. Design considerations such as integrated pet spaces, washable covers, and raised legs enhance practicality and cleanliness.

Affordable Options

Seconds Furniture offers factory seconds furniture at reasonable prices, making durable and stylish pet-friendly furniture accessible for Australian pet owners without compromising quality.

This comprehensive approach ensures that pet owners can enjoy beautiful, comfortable homes while caring for their furry family members effectively.