When Is It Time To Replace Your Furniture?
Most upholstered furniture will last up to fifteen years, but this varies depending on how well you look after it and the quality of materials used in the construction. The upholstery itself usually outlasts the frame, and some materials have a much shorter lifespan than others. Some types of fabric last longer, such as leather, tweed, and velvet, while others such as cotton and linen will need to be replaced more frequently. If you're not sure how old your furniture is, it's always best to check with the manufacturer or retailer before making any decisions.
Signs It's Time To Replace Your Couch
Couch Doesn't Fit: A common sign that it’s time to replace your couch is if it no longer fits in your space. Whether you’re downsizing or upgrading your living space, a new couch should fit in perfectly.
Creaking Noises: Creaking and cracking noises are a sure sign that your frame is wearing down. You may also notice sagging in the cushions. These are telltale signs that it’s time to replace your couch.
Cushions are Flat and Lumbar Support is Gone: If your cushions are lumpy, flat, or your lumbar support has disappeared, it may be time to look for a new couch. A properly constructed couch should have evenly distributed padding throughout its cushions.
Overwhelming Odour or It's Itchy: If you notice an overwhelming odour coming from your couch, this could be a sign that mildew has set in, which means it’s time to replace it. Also, if you start feeling itchy after sitting on your couch, this could be a sign that the fabric isn’t clean or worn out.
Decorating Tastes Have Changed: If you’ve recently changed the look of your home, it may be time to upgrade your furniture to match. Upholstery has a huge impact on the overall look of a room, so if your tastes have changed, it’s time to invest in new furniture.
Upholstery Looks Terrible: If your couch looks dull, faded, or stained, it’s probably time to say goodbye. If you’ve tried cleaning and nothing seems to improve the look of your upholstery, it might be time to invest in something new.
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Cleaning and maintaining your upholstered furniture is essential if you want it to last. Commonly used upholstery fabrics such as cotton, linen, and polyester are all relatively easy to clean. Vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris, spot-clean stubborn stains and spills, and use a steamer or upholstery cleaner to deep clean.
Understanding Fabrics
Not all fabrics are created equal and understanding their different properties can help you decide which ones are right for you. Natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool, and silk are breathable and long-lasting but can absorb spills quickly. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester, olefin, rayon, and acrylic are less expensive and more stain-resistant. Leather is also highly durable and easy to care for, but it is the more expensive option. If you find that you have numerous types of furniture in your home that are of differing materials and you don't have the resources to clean certain types yourself, you may want to contact your local upholstery cleaners. Professionals can help curate a cleaning plan for your upholstery furniture that uniquely complements the fabrics, your budget and the environment.
Is It Better To Reupholster Or Buy New?
Reupholstering can be a cost-effective way to revive old furniture, but it’s not always the right choice. If the frame is weak or broken or the upholstery is heavily damaged, it’s probably more sensible to invest in a new couch or chair. On the other hand, giving new life to furniture you already own can be an excellent way to give a room an updated look. Consider your budget, style preferences, and the condition of the frame when deciding whether to buy new or reupholster.
No matter how well you look after it, all furniture will eventually need to be replaced. It’s important to understand when it’s time to upgrade your furniture, the signs that it’s ready to go, and how to care for it properly. Knowing the different types of fabrics available and whether it’s better to reupholster or buy new can help you make an informed decision about your furniture.
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