Best Fabric Protector for Furniture

Best Fabric Protector for Furniture & Upholstery

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Brenda Nyawara

Brenda Nyawara is an editor at Archute. She is a graduate architect with a passion for edge-cutting ideas in design, fashion, art and modern world interests.
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Some things are bound to happen, like accidentally spilling your food or drink on your expensive couch or linen sheets. Similarly, your pet can leave messes on your upholstered furniture fabric. To prevent this, you need to invest in the best fabric protector for furniture. And why would you need furniture fabric protection? Here are some of the reasons. Also, check out the best fabric protectors for furniture and factors to consider when buying one.

Why Would You Need Furniture Fabric Protection?

Furniture is expensive, so maintaining and caring for it will boost its durability. With the best fabric protector for furniture, you will maintain its beauty and enjoy stain-free furniture.

Fabric and upholstery protectors will protect your furniture from stains as well as protect it against any degradation caused by UV to your furniture. Besides, some even prevent the growth of mold or mildew. They also make cleaning furniture easier, so you will save time because dirt will come off more easily.

Now that we know why we need furniture fabric protectors, let's check out the best ones, tried and tested.

Best Furniture Protection Sprays

1. Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield

Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield, Water Repellent Spray...
  • WATER REPELLENT SPRAY: Two Scotchgard Fabric Water Shields, 10 oz...
  • IDEAL FOR MANY HOUSEHOLD ITEMS: Water repellent spray is ideal...
  • USE ON CLOTHING: Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield is perfect fabric...
  • SAFE FOR DELICATE CLOTHING: Fabric cleaner is safe for use on...
  • BREATHABLE AND DOESN’T FADE: Odorless water repellent spray...

Employing the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield was not complicated. The treatment can be applied to several pieces of the furniture in your living room and the process is easy. A few minutes after application the spray is dry, making it ideal for a no spillage area within a few minutes of application.

After using it any stains could be wiped off easily as it was able to easily repel water through wiping. It is also convenient to wear over clothes, which may be helpful in outdoor activities or in the case of rain.

Although you will be getting reliable protection, you should be careful of the smell when applying the spray. It’s recommended to do it in an area with adequate ventilation. All in all, Scotchgard offers a reasonable solution to seasonal fabric management and letting you deal with messy incidents without worries.

Pros:

  • Easy to apply
  • Generates a waterproofing layer for long-lasting fabric protection
  • Offers stain and moisture resistance
  • Dries clear and odorless

Cons:

  • Not very effective for outdoor furniture

2. RepelWell Upholstery Protect Stain & Water Repellent Spray

RepelWell Upholstery Protect Stain & Water Repellent...
  • ➤ Safe for you and everything you spray it onto; provides...
  • ➤ Hydrophobic, cutting-edge technology creates an ultra-thin,...
  • ➤ Environmentally-friendly, crystal clear stain and spill...
  • ➤ Non-aerosol, non-flammable; safe for you, your pets, and the...
  • ➤Includes (1) 12oz bottle of RepelWell Upholstery Protect

The use of the RepelWell Upholstery Protect Spray was quite easy and the difference was fairly obvious right after. It lays a definitive layer that seems capable of repelling everything from juice, to coffee, to pet mishaps, and so on. This feature is especially useful for households with children or animals because spilling things is a given.

Using it on a light colored sofa, even when spills are made, they do not penetrate deeper but rather they bead up for easy cleaning. The product dries relatively quickly, and so your furniture can be used again soon without having to wait for too long. Also, it’s always good to know that it’s safe for the environment and does not release any toxic gases.

However, one must be careful as a few accidents may not be prevented even with this product’s effectiveness against many types of stains. However, if you are in need of a fabric protector, then this spray is one for the taking.

Pros:

  • Safe for children and pets, ensuring peace of mind.
  • Advanced technology creates an invisible shield against spills.
  • Easy to apply without any messy aerosols or strong odors.

Cons:

  • Does not guarantee total stain resistance.
  • Initial application may have a temporary odor.

3. Guardsman Fabric Defense & Upholstery Water Repellent Spray

Sale
Guardsman Fabric Defense & Upholstery Water Repellent...
  • Provides ultimate stain; dirt; and waterproofing defense for any...
  • Creates an ultra-thin; odorless; invisible shield that repels...
  • Will not alter the color or shade of your fabric or leave any...
  • Simple; one-step application; reapply annually or after washing;...
  • Since 1915; Guardsman has been trusted worldwide by furniture...

The first thing through which you realize when you apply Guardsman Fabric Defense is how simple the process is. The upholstery is protected after a simple spray, while the color and texture of the furniture remain intact. You will be confident knowing that it prevents liquids and stains from penetrating through the fabric, very useful in homes with kids or dogs.

Most users like the fact that this spray delivers a high coverage of the area being sprayed. The guidelines specify that the procedure should be repeated twice for maximum efficiency and adhesion, which might be needed for your furniture to layer enough protection. Despite the apparent smell in the initial stages after applying it, one can comfortably use the furniture as it is, after applying the solution.

Despite its overall efficiency, make sure to look at the product labels for possible side effects on ingredients. Nonetheless, most people consider it worthwhile for the added protection, considering its performance in maintaining upholstery. 

Pros:

  • Forms an invisible shield against common stains and spills.
  • Easy application process that requires minimal time.
  • Will not change fabric color or leave behind a sticky residue.

Cons:

  • Strong odor during application that requires good ventilation.
  • May need multiple coats for optimal protection.
  • Contains ingredients that come with safety warnings

4. TriNova Non-Aerosol Stain Guard - Fabric Protection Spray

Sale
TriNova Non-Aerosol Stain Guard - Fabric Protection...
  • SPILLS DON'T MEAN STAINS - If your fabric surfaces are protected,...
  • EASY TO APPLY - Just spray, let it dry, and then live your life....
  • A SAFER ALTERNATIVE - Unlike most stain guards, our protectant...
  • CLEAR and ODORLESS - you don't want your stain guard CAUSING a...
  • PLEASE NOTE - Due to the pandemic, it has been challenging...

Applying the TriNova Non-Aerosol Stain Guard was quite easy and was just a one-process to execute. It’s as simple as giving the couch a few sprays, and you can rest easy knowing that should a drink spill on the couch, the liquid will simply sit on the surface of the fabric waiting to be mopped up. This simple to use application will have a big improvement in everyday life especially when children or pets are present.

This is especially true when it comes to coverage time where the product does not take so long to dry up. It took us roughly ten minutes to dry and we were able to resume the use of the sofa immediately. The best thing of all is that the liquid formula is odorless which means that furniture wont smell bad.

Again, with the protectant its quality is superb, but some users have complained of problems with the sprayer. However, it is essential to understand if you get a defective bottle, there are ways you can get a new one. In general, TriNova can be recommended as a rather efficient means of protection, helping to maintain upholstery in proper condition.

Pros:

  • Spills can be easily blotted away without leaving stains.
  • Simple application that dries quickly and is easy to use.
  • Water-based formula makes it safe for indoor use.

Cons:

  • Price may be higher than comparable products.
  • Limited effectiveness reported on certain fabric types.

5. SoftClad Extra Strength Fabric Protector Spray for Furniture and Upholstery

Extra Strength Fabric Protector Spray Prevents Stains...
  • FABRIC PROTECTOR SPRAY AND STAIN GUARD - prevents stains and...
  • WORKS ON ALMOST ALL FABRICS: Cloth, Shoes, Knits, Suede, Felts,...
  • Proudly Made in the USA
  • SAFE TO USE - SoftClad is non-flamable and safe to use indoors....
  • 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE - If you are not satisfied, request a...

SoftClad Extra Strength Fabric Protector is an excellent option for repelling water-based spills such as coffee or wine. You can use it on various materials, including upholstery, canvas, suede, leather, and felt. Besides, the upholstery protector is designed for interior usage to protect furniture, carpets, curtains, clothing, shoes, and other fabric materials.

The upholstery protector spray bottle has three finger grip making it convenient to use. Besides, I love how fast it dries and with no tackiness. This usually prevents dirt and dust from sticking to the surface after applying. Also, being odorless is a plus for me.

Pros:

  • Easy to use, has a user-friendly handle
  • Dries clear and odorless
  • It doesn't hold on to dust or dirt
  • Water-based upholstery protector

Cons:

  • Multiple coatings needed to get full coverage

Steps on How to Effectively Use a Fabric Protector

Image Source: impressiveinteriordesign.com

Step 1: Shake the fabric protector bottle vigorously.

Step 2: To avoid over-spray, ensure you cover the non-fabric material in the surrounding section with plastic.

Step 3: Spray the hidden areas of the fabric properly and wipe it with a towel. If you detect the fabric color rubbing off, don't use the spray.

Step 4: Spray at a distance of 25 to 30 cm from the fabric.

Step 5: In a steady and sweeping motion, overlap the spray to cover the surface uniformly.

Step 6: Allow the fabric to dry for about an hour.

Step 7: To retain protection, use the fabric protector every three to four months or after each thorough cleaning.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing the Best Fabric Protector for Furniture

1. Ingredients

Before buying the best fabric protection spray for your upholstered furniture, it's wise to read the ingredients list. Check to see if the ingredients are fit for the type o fabric you're dealing with. The wrong ingredient might ruin your furniture's fabric and possibly the wood.

2. Ease of Application

Most fabric protectors are usually available in spray form, allowing you to quickly and uniformly cover the fabric surface by depressing a trigger or holding a button. And since fabric protector sprays are reapplied regularly, the convenience of use is essential.

3. Dry-Time

When shopping for the best fabric protector for furniture, look for one with a short dry time. One that you won't have to wait long to repeat layers. Quick-drying also ensures that your furniture isn't damp for too long.

Besides, to provide adequate protection, the spray must completely dry. With quick-drying fabric protectors, you can use them on high-traffic, heavy-use pieces like a family room couch or entranceway rug, which you need to use soon after treatment.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Look for fabric protectors that are eco-friendly. Though aerosol sprays are convenient to use, they have environmental implications. This is because aerosol products no longer have ozone-depleting ingredients such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Still, you can find some with hydrocarbons, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and compressed gases, which are known to be unfriendly to the environment.

Some fabric protection products have a strong odor due to their chemical constituents. Though the odor fades with time, it might be unpleasant for some, especially when used indoors. Luckily, there are low-odor options that dry without a strong odor for those with olfactory sensitivity.

5. Fabric Variety

Different protectors work on specific types of fabrics. Therefore, look for a fabric and upholstery protector spray that you can use on more than furniture or upholstery. All-purpose protection sprays are handy since you can use them on rugs, curtains, indoor and outdoor furniture, and household items like shoes, backpacks, and hats. Generally, you can use these types of protection sprays on any fabric.

We recommend reading the label guidelines before spraying to ensure it's suitable for your intended surface, especially for delicate fabrics such as velvet, silk, and some leathers. Also, check if the spray is designed indoors, outdoors, or both. Outdoor fabric sprays often provide superior weatherproofing and UV fading protection, making cleaning and maintaining outdoor furniture easier.

6. Coverage

Fabric protectors are usually applied to fabrics to keep liquids and dirt from getting deep into the fibers. Besides, some protectors protect against UV damage, which causes fading. We recommend reading labels to find a product that solves your main concerns and ensures you get enough to cover the whole surface.

On the other hand, the best fabric protectors come with high-quality spray systems to disperse a fine, wide mist. Fabric protectors come in two common containers; a pump spray bottle or an aerosol spray container. Both types of spray can offer great coverage, although aerosols provide a finer mist.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Fabric Protector for Furniture

1. Is a fabric protector for furniture permanent?

Most people might think you are done once you sprayed a fabric protector on your furniture. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. A fabric protectant is simply a temporary solution. It needs to be reapplied depending on how frequently you use your furniture.

The best way to check whether you need to reapply the fabric protector is by splashing a few water droplets on the upholstered furniture. The application is still effective if the water pills don't get absorbed by the couch. But if the liquid penetrates the upholstered furniture, it's time to reapply the protector.

After treating your sofa with a fabric protector, ensure you do regular maintenance to eliminate dust, dirt, and pet hair. We recommend using pet hair vacuum to clean your upholstered furniture weekly to monthly, depending on how often you use it.

2. Can you clean upholstered fabric furniture protected by a fabric and upholstery protector?

Though you can, it is not recommended. The reason is that you can easily clean the upholstered furniture and clothing, which are treated with a stain-resistant coating with a wet sponge or towel. And vacuuming will be enough for the rest of the task.

3. Can I use a fabric protector on old upholstered furniture?

Yes, if the furniture is in decent shape and you haven't considered reupholstering it yet. However, it's crucial to wash the fabric first to get rid of any stains. Check the washing guidelines to understand how to care for your fabric.

Though you can wash some fabrics in a washing machine, hiring a professional upholstery/dry cleaner is wise. They have the necessary chemicals to remove stains. After your furniture fabric has dry, apply a protectant for future use.

4. What can a fabric protection product be used on?

Most fabric protectors are usually safe to use on various household materials, including upholstered furniture, carpet, rugs, and curtains. Besides, you can use some even on bags, shoes, and outdoor gear; check the product label to verify which surfaces are suitable to use.

Featured Image Source: homeadvisor.com

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About the author

Brenda Nyawara

Brenda Nyawara is an editor at Archute. She is a graduate architect with a passion for edge-cutting ideas in design, fashion, art and modern world interests.
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