Best Fabric for Daybeds & Futons: Durable, Easy-Care Upholstery Ideas
Daybeds and futons do double duty as both seating and sleeping spaces. Their flexibility makes them ideal for guest rooms, home offices, and studio apartments. Because they’re used more often than a standard sofa, the fabric you choose needs to be durable, comfortable, and easy to maintain while still complementing your overall style.
Featured Fabric: Reed Ballet
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In this guide, we’ll walk through the best upholstery fabrics for daybeds and futons. Whether you’re furnishing a multi-purpose room, hosting occasional guests, or using your daybed every day, these fabrics are designed to perform.
What to Consider When Choosing Fabric
Before you select upholstery fabric for your daybed or futon, think about how the piece will function in your space. If it’s used daily as your main seating, you’ll want a high-performance fabric that resists pilling, fading, and everyday wear. If it’s mainly for guests, comfort and visual appeal may take priority.
Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Durability: Choose tightly woven fabrics with a high double-rub count (15,000+ for residential upholstery). Performance fabrics or commercial-grade textiles are ideal for high-traffic use.
- Stain Resistance: Washable or stain-resistant fabrics are especially practical for multipurpose rooms and homes with kids or pets.
- Ease of Cleaning: Washable or stain-resistant options are ideal for multipurpose rooms.
- Breathability: Natural fibers and blends, such as cotton or linen, help keep the mattress feeling cool and fresh.
- Texture and Color: Select a fabric that complements your décor and hides everyday use. Textured weaves, darker tones, or patterns can be more forgiving than flat solids.
Common Fabric Types and Their Pros & Cons
- Cotton and Linen: Look for a high double-rub rating (15,000+ for residential use). Contract fabrics are built for high-traffic enviornments while maintaining a stylish finish.
- Polyester and Microfiber: Look for performance weaves or Crypton textiles that resist spills, odors, and moisture.
- Performance Fabrics (Olefin, Crypton, etc.): Solution-dyed synthetics hold up best against UV fading.
- Velvet and Chenille: A soft hand and good airflow make long viewing sessions more enjoyable.
- Wool Blends: Denser, matte fabrics can improve your room’s acoustics.
Are Performance Fabrics a Good Choice for Daybeds and Futons?
Performance fabrics are designed for durability — making them one of the best choices for multifunctional furniture. Many are treated with stain-repellent coatings and can be spot-cleaned with water or mild soap.
Options like olefin,
Best Fabric Recommendations by Use Case
Pet-Friendly Homes
Choose a tightly woven microfiber or performance polyester that resists claw snags and cleans easily. Avoid loose weaves or textured fabrics that trap fur.
Guest Rooms
Cotton-linen blends offer a crisp, welcoming look that feels cool and breathable for overnight stays.
Small Spaces and Studios
A performance velvet or faux-suede fabric adds visual warmth while withstanding daily use.
Family Rooms
Crypton or olefin fabrics handle heavy wear, food spills, and kids’ messes with minimal maintenance.
How Fabric Durability and Maintenance Differ by Fiber Type
Each fiber reacts differently to everyday use:
- Natural Fibers (cotton, linen) age gracefully but may fade faster in direct light.
- Synthetic blends (polyester, olefin) resist moisture and abrasion better.
- Performance textiles maintain appearance longer, even with frequent cleaning.
If you expect your daybed or futon to double as a main sofa, consider upholstery with a commercial-grade double-rub count or a cleaning code W or WS for easier maintenance.
Style and Texture Considerations
Fabric isn’t just about function — it shapes the mood of the room.
A textured weave adds depth to minimalist spaces, while smooth microfiber or linen gives a clean, modern look. Neutral colors are versatile and forgiving, but patterned or heathered fabrics can hide wear and add personality.
When coordinating fabrics for pillows or throws, mix textures rather than competing patterns to maintain visual balance.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To keep your daybed and futon looking new:
- Vacuum upholstery weekly to prevent dust buildup.
- Blot (don’t rub) spills immediately with a clean, damp cloth.
- Rotate cushions or mattress sides every few months for even wear.
- Use removable slipcovers or washable toppers for added protection.
These small habits extend fabric life and preserve comfort for years.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best fabric for your daybed or futon comes down to how you live. If you need low-maintenance performance, opt for a stain-resistant blend. For light use and natural comfort, cotton or linen delivers an airy, inviting feel.
Whatever your style, the right upholstery will help your daybed or futon stay both functional and beautiful — ready for lounging, guests, or an afternoon nap.
