Does This Fabric Resist Stains? What to Know Before You Buy Upholstery

Whether you have kids, pets, roommates, or just a knack for spilling red wine—stain resistance matters.

The good news? Many of our custom upholstery options come in performance fabrics designed to handle real life without adding stress. Here’s what to know before you fall in love with a sofa and start worrying about what might land on it.

Performance fabrics are all about how a material holds up to everyday use. That includes stain resistance, liquid repellency, fade resistance, and durability. These textiles are engineered to stand up to wear and tear—without sacrificing comfort or looks.

But not all stain-resistant fabrics are created equal. Some rely on topical sprays that sit on the surface, which can wear off, require reapplication, and raise some environmental concerns. The better choice? Inherent performance fibers—where the resistance is woven into the fabric itself. No coatings, no re-treating, and no compromise on safety or longevity. That’s the kind we focus on at Fly By Night.

We work with top-tier performance fabric brands like Crypton, InsideOut, Revolution, and Ultrasuede. These offer features like moisture resistance, UV protection, odor blocking, and high cleanability—all while feeling soft and stylish. Gone are the days of stiff, industrial-feeling fabrics. You can have a gorgeous velvet that wipes clean with water or a linen-look weave that shrugs off ketchup and crayon marks.

If you’ve got pets, we’ve got you covered. We help dog owners, cat lovers, and parrot people alike find upholstery that survives muddy paws, drool, and the occasional flying furball. Tighter weaves help fend off claws, while built-in stain resistance makes cleanup easier. We can also steer you toward colors and textures that hide fur without feeling drab—or suggest removable cushion covers where it makes sense.

And if you’ve got kids, don’t worry. You don’t have to settle for scratchy beige or sticky faux leather anymore. Today’s performance fabrics look and feel like the best designer textiles. They’re breathable, soft, and beautiful—just with a little more grit under the glam.

Want help choosing the right fabric?

Come visit us in Northampton—or soon, in Maynard—and explore the hundreds of upholstery options we offer. We’ll help you find something that fits your life, not just your living room. No pressure, no commissions—just smart guidance and materials that hold up.