How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Sofa

To most pet owners, their beloved cat or dog is more than just a pet, they are family. They share your home, your heart and sometimes even your sofa. When it comes to choosing a sofa, pet owners face many challenges. From fur and claws, to dirt and odours, pets can really put your furniture to the test. However, with the right choice, you do not have to compromise on style or quality.

Your sofa is key piece of furniture in your home. It is where you relax after a long day, where you and your children watch TV, where you entertain guests, and sometimes even take a snooze.

For pet owners, the sofa often doubles as a playground or resting spot for their furry friends. This dual function means your sofa must withstand the wear and tear that comes with having a pet while also maintaining its appearance and comfort. 

Pets bring joy and companionship, but they also bring a few challenges when it comes to maintaining your home: 

• Fur and Shedding: Pets, especially those with long fur, can shed significantly. This fur often clings to upholstery fabrics, making it difficult to keep the sofa clean. 
• Claws and Scratching: Cats are notorious for scratching furniture, and dogs can also cause damage with their claws. This can lead to unsightly snags, tears and fraying. 
• Stains and Odours: Pets can be messy. They might bring in dirt through muddy paws, have accidents, or leave behind strong odours. All of which can affect your sofa.
• Allergies: Pet dander can be a problem for people with allergies. The right fabric can help minimise allergens in your home.

When shopping for a pet-friendly sofa, the fabric you choose is probably the most important decision. Aquaclean have developed Aquaclean Extreme specifically to withstand the demands of a busy home with pets. Designed with trend-led style in mind, these fabrics are stylish yet practical and are the perfect addition to your home. At Long Eaton Sofas, we offer a number of Aquaclean Extreme fabrics. 

Aquaclean Extreme fabrics have a loop-free surface, which prevents accidental snags from claws. They also make it easier to remove pet hair and are equipped with Safe Front® technology to keep the fabric clean from the inside, free from viruses and bacteria, preventing odours and protecting against allergies caused by dust mites. 

Aquaclean’s Safe Front® technology protects as standard against enveloped viruses and bacteria, effectively reducing its activity by more than 91% against untreated fabrics. This shield permanently maintains optimal levels of hygiene on your sofa.  

One of the biggest concerns for pet owners is that they’ll have to sacrifice style or quality for practicality. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. At Long Eaton Sofas, our furniture is designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind and so you can have the best of both worlds: 

• Fabric Choice: Aquaclean’s pet-friendly fabrics come in a wide range of colours and textures. Whether you prefer a classic look or a contemporary style, you can find a fabric that complements your home decor. 
• Quality Construction: A well-constructed sofa is essential for durability. Our sofas are made on a hand-built hardwood frame with glued, screwed and dowelled joints. Our frames are so strong, that we give a thirty year guarantee on them. Seat springs are made from high-gauge tempered steel and come with a fifteen year guarantee. Combined with high-quality cushioning and durable fabrics, these features ensure that your sofa will last, even with pets. 
• Innovative and Hygienic Technology: Aquaclean offer fabrics with advanced technology that makes cleaning easy. Their fabrics are treated to repel stains and prevent pet hair from sticking to them, making maintenance really easy. 
• Custom Options: At Long Eaton Sofas, you are able to choose the style, size, fabric and comfort that best suits your needs and tastes. You do not need to settle for a generic look to get the durability you need.

Even with the best fabric, regular maintenance is key to keeping your sofa looking at its best. Here are some tips to help you care for your pet-friendly sofa: 

• Regular Cleaning: Use a lint remover, or vacuum your sofa regularly to remove pet hair and dander. Tackle any stains or spills quickly. 
• Protective Covers: Consider using a protective cover or throw on areas where your pet likes to sit. This can help reduce wear and tear and make cleaning much easier. 
• Training: Train your pets to use designated areas, such as pet beds or blankets, to minimise the time they spend on the sofa. 
• Claw Maintenance: Keep your pet’s nails trimmed, to reduce the risk of scratches and snags.

Choosing the right sofa when you have a pet doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or quality. With the right fabric choice and a little maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, durable, and pet-friendly sofa that fits perfectly into your home.

At Long Eaton Sofas, we understand the needs of pet owners and our Aquaclean Extreme fabrics are designed to make life with pets easier and more enjoyable. To see them for yourself, make an appointment today to visit our showroom.