Goodbye Microfiber Couches: Rough, Easy-to-Clean Fabrics Are Taking Over

Microfiber couches used to be all the rage, but times are changing. While they’re durable and simple-looking, microfiber just doesn’t have the same visual appeal as other fabrics. It can pill and look a bit dated. But the real issue isn’t the fiber itself – it’s the colors and styles that tend to make microfiber couches feel like a relic of the 2000s.

For example, those beige and brown microfiber sofas can look pretty blah and lack personality. The overstuffed cushions also don’t vibe with the sleeker, more modern styles or the plush, vintage aesthetics that are making a comeback. Plus, microfiber sofas can easily get dirty and covered in pet hair or crumbs. So people are ditching microfiber in favor of fabrics with more character.

As microfiber falls out of favor, fabrics with more personality are taking over. Velvet, for instance, gives living rooms a luxurious, opulent feel. And while velvet has a rep for being high-maintenance, it can actually be pretty stain-resistant thanks to its dense pile that helps hide discoloration. Mohair velvet is especially trendy right now for its durability.

Bouclé is another material that’s getting a lot of love. The tiny looped and nubby curls give it a ton of texture. While that texture could attract more dirt, it can also better conceal snags or pet claw marks. Some folks may find bouclé a little too much, though.

Wool and shearling offer similar tactile experiences but in a more subtle way. Shearling, made from natural sheep or lamb hide, brings an organic vibe. Some designers think it might even surpass the popularity of bouclé. And natural brown leather is making a comeback too, providing a warm, moody alternative to microfiber. People are really digging authentic leather furniture since it’s a natural material that aligns with the current preference for organic over synthetic.