Best Pet-Friendly Furniture

 The Best Materials for Homes with Pets

We love our furry companions, they’re part of the family. But if you’ve ever watched your cat knead into your sofa or noticed dog hair woven into your cushions, you know that not all furniture materials are made with pets in mind.

Here’s the thing, you don’t have to sacrifice style for durability. In this post, we’re breaking down the best pet-friendly furniture materials that can stand up to claws, fur, drool, and the occasional accident while still looking fabulous in your home.

1. Performance Fabrics: Your Secret Weapon

Why it's great:
Performance fabrics like Crypton, Sunbrella, or Revolution are engineered to be stain-resistant odor-resistant, and easy to clean. Many are moisture-resistant for the occasional paw print or spill.

Best for: Sofas, sectionals, chairs, and ottomans.

Care tip: Most performance fabrics can be cleaned with soap and water, or even bleach, here at Forward Furniture we have them all!

2. Leather: Stylish & Scratch-Resistant (Mostly)

Why it works:
Leather is sleek, durable, and doesn’t trap pet hair like woven fabrics do. It’s also easy to wipe down and doesn’t absorb smells.

But be careful: Not all leather is created equal. Go for top-grain leather over bonded or faux options as they are more durable and less likely to peel or tear.

Best for: Couches, recliners, dining chairs.

3. Microfiber: The Budget-Friendly Hero

Why it’s pet-approved:
Microfiber (also called micro suede) is tightly woven, so claws are less likely to snag it. It’s also resistant to moisture and super easy to clean.

Best for: Everyday furniture in high-traffic areas. (Long Beach Modular Sofa)

Pet bonus: It repels fur better than traditional woven fabrics and cleans up easily with a lint roller or vacuum.

4. Say No to These Materials (If You Can)

• Velvet: Gorgeous but a fur magnet and hard to clean.
  
  

• Chenille: Softer texture which means it’ll only be easier to snag.
  
  

• Silk & Linen: Too delicate for pet wear and tear.
  
  

Bonus Tips for Pet Owners

• Choose darker shades or patterned fabrics to hide fur and stains.
  
  

• Add washable throws or slipcovers for an easy refresh.
  
  

• Train pets early to stay off furniture or give them their own cozy spot with pet beds that match your décor!
  
  

Shop Smart, Live Stylish

At Forward Furniture, we carry a wide range of pet-friendly furniture that’s both functional and beautiful. Whether you're a cat lover, a dog parent, or both, we’ve got materials designed to hold up to your lifestyle and your furry friends. 

Stop by our showroom or shop online today and find furniture that loves your pets as much as you do.

What to do next

Everything we sell is online, from beds and sofas to desks. We are a Canadian company with showrooms in Kelowna, Calgary and Edmonton, so if you would rather see something before you buy it, find your nearest store.