How to Check Upholstery Fabric

Read the tag to determine the fiber type of an upholstery fabric. If the tag doesn't indicate the fiber, ask a salesperson for the information. Flat, delicate fabrics such as silk, brocade and rayon show wear quickly and usually require dry cleaning. Relegate them to low-traffic areas, such as a formal living room. Plush fabrics such as velour and nylon, polyester and olefin blends withstand stains and are easy to clean.

Check the tag for a durability code. More expensive and usually more durable fabrics have a higher letter or number than cheaper fabrics. Fabrics labeled with "J" or "10" are probably better quality than those labeled with "D" or "3."

Inspect the tag for a cleaning code. "W" means the fabric is washable, using foam or water-soluble cleaners, such as mild dishwashing soap or ammonia diluted in water. Clean those fabrics labeled with "S" with drycleaning solvents only. These fabrics may require professional care. "WS" means either solvents or water-based cleaners are appropriate, while the letter "X" means vacuuming only. Leather couches fall into this category.

Inspect the tag for information on stain resistance. Many upholstery fabrics are treated with a stain-resisting chemical to keep the fabric looking new longer. These surfaces may even repel spills instead of absorbing them.

Hold the fabric up to the light and look at the weave. Closely woven fabrics are more durable than loose ones. Inspect a fabric sample's raw edges. Those that fray easily probably won't wear well.