When it comes to choosing furniture and homewares for a space, our beloved furry friends need to be considered! This is because pets can often (accidentally) cause damage and unwanted wear and tear, with everything from scratches and claw marks to shedding hair and leaving dirt on your favourite pieces.
However, by selecting pieces designed with durability in mind to withstand the playful and sometimes messy nature of pets, you can maintain a stylish, comfortable, and functional space.
We decided to consult the experts, our resident Interior Designers, to bring you their top tips to help you choose the best furniture and homewares for a pet-friendly space.
Washable Designs
Incorporating washable pieces into your interiors is one of the best things you can do for a pet-friendly home. Rugs, throws, and cushion covers that can be tossed into the washing machine allows you to keep your space fresh, and reduces the allergen buildup our pets bring in. Opt for machine-washable items that are made from materials that can handle frequent laundering without losing their shape or colour.
The Contour Chenille Washable Rug by Double is a perfect example of a stylish, yet practical piece with its washable design. Stain-resistant and machine washable, this rug features a versatile, neutral palette with a unique geometric motif to bring visual interest into any space.
Scratch-resistant materials
Cats and dogs alike can be notorious for scratching our favourite furniture pieces, so its important to opt for scratch resistant materials in all furniture and homewares. Leather is a great option that can handle scratches and scuffs thanks to its worn patina that naturally develops over time, allowing any scratches and marks to blend right in. Plus, because there is no pile, weave, or excess fabric with leather, your pet won’t be able to pull on anything!
Despite its luxurious and delicate appearance, velvet is another incredibly durable material that is resistant to scratches from your pet. Its thick pile and short fibres ensure that your pet’s claws won’t get caught, counteracting the snags and pulls they can sometimes create in other looser fabrics.
With a low backrest and deep seat, the Memphis 3-Seater Sofa is a timeless sofa with considered design elements, ideal to elevate any living space. Its understated velvet upholstery adds a subtle element of texture into any home, whilst adding to its overall practicality with its hard-wearing nature.
Stain-resistant fabrics & colours
Whether your pet has brought in their muddy paws, had an accident, or simply made a little mess, we all know that accidents happen! However, they don’t have to ruin your favourite sofa or armchair. Stain-resistant fabrics like treated leather, acrylics and synthetic blends are designed to repel spills and stains, making them easy to maintain with pets in the house.
Additionally, picking mid to darker colour fabrics is also a great option for camouflaging stains. Darker colours are also useful for those with pets that shed particularly heavily, as they generally hide the hair and dirt more effectively than lighter colours.
The Cotton Star Armchair by Kolbi is an elegant and curvy statement piece that will add both style and comfort to any living space or bedroom. Its soft, tactile upholstery is crafted with 100% polyester fabric, and will last your home for years to come with enduring quality.
By choosing washable pieces, scratch-proof materials, and stain-resistant fabrics, you can maintain a beautiful and inviting space for both you and your furry friends.
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Love, Life x