Living in Calgary comes with plenty of perks—mountain views, fresh air, and wide open skies. But if you own pets or live near construction zones or rural roads, Alberta’s dry, dusty climate can be a hassle inside your home. Add shedding pets to the mix, and your furniture takes a beating.
Choosing the right fabric makes a big difference. The good news? You don’t need to give up comfort or style for durability. Let's look at what fabrics can handle fur, claws, and everyday dust without constant cleaning.
What Makes a Fabric Pet-Friendly and Dust-Resistant?
When shopping for pet-friendly furniture in Calgary, you’ll want to consider three key things: texture, weave, and static. Avoid fabrics that trap hair or hold onto dust. Tight weaves, smooth surfaces, and anti-static materials are your best bets.
Fabrics should be easy to vacuum or wipe clean. Bonus points if they don’t show paw prints or dust streaks. Calgary's dry climate often stirs up dust, so think ahead before buying light or overly textured materials.
Best Furniture Fabrics for Homes with Pets and Dust
1. Leather
Leather is one of the easiest materials to clean. Pet hair doesn’t stick, and dust wipes off fast. It doesn’t absorb smells, and you can usually remove scratches with conditioner or polish. If your dog or cat often jumps on the couch, look for top-grain or full-grain leather. It’s thicker and more durable.
Some people worry that leather feels cold or stiff, but high-quality leather softens over time. It also holds up well in Calgary’s fluctuating temperatures.
2. Microfibre (aka Microsuede)
Microfibre is soft but tightly woven, which means pet hair doesn’t dig in. It resists moisture and can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water. Microfibre doesn’t create much static, so it won’t attract dust as easily.
It’s also an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers. Many Calgarians love it for family rooms or basements where kids and pets spend time.
3. Canvas
Canvas is rugged and naturally pet-friendly. It has a smooth surface that repels pet hair and doesn’t hold onto dust. Some canvas covers are removable and washable, which makes upkeep simple.
This fabric works well in casual or rustic spaces. Think of it as a practical choice if you want something long-lasting without the fuss.
4. Crypton
If you want to avoid stains, smells, and hair buildup, Crypton is worth a look. It’s a high-performance fabric that resists everything from drool to red wine. It’s moisture-resistant, anti-microbial, and doesn’t trap dust or odours.
You’ll find it used in many pet-friendly furniture options in Calgary, especially custom sectionals and chairs. Showhome Furniture in Calgary carries several Canadian-made pieces that can be upholstered in Crypton.
5. Outdoor Fabrics (Yes, Indoors!)
Outdoor fabrics like Sunbrella aren’t just for patios. More homeowners are using them indoors for their tough, fade-resistant finish. These fabrics repel moisture, don’t trap dust, and are super easy to clean.
They come in stylish colours and textures now, so your sofa won’t look like patio furniture. This is a smart option for high-traffic areas or pet zones.
Fabrics to Avoid
Some materials are magnets for fur and dust. Avoid velvet, chenille, and corduroy. These fabrics trap everything and are hard to clean. They also show signs of wear and shedding over time.
Loose weaves like linen can snag easily on claws and tend to hold onto smells. If you love the look of these fabrics, use them for accent pillows that can be replaced or washed often.
Tips to Keep Furniture Clean in Alberta Homes
- Use throws or washable covers in areas where pets like to nap.
- Vacuum often with a brush attachment to lift hair and dust without damage.
- Brush your pets regularly to reduce loose fur.
- Keep windows closed on windy days to reduce dust blowing in.
- Add air purifiers to help with airborne particles that settle on furniture.
Where to Shop for Pet-Friendly Furniture in Calgary
Showhome Furniture at North Hill Centre has Calgary’s largest furniture showroom at 70,000 square feet. They specialize in high-quality, pet-friendly furniture, including custom-made Canadian sectionals, sofas, and chairs.
You can choose from dozens of fabrics designed to handle pet wear and Alberta dust. Their team offers a free design consultation to help if you’re not sure which style or fabric best suits your space.
Pick furniture that can stand up to your daily life—pets, dust, and all.
Conclusion
Choosing pet-friendly and dust-resistant furniture doesn’t mean you need to compromise on style. Fabrics like leather, microfibre, Crypton, and canvas offer good looks with less upkeep. If you live in Calgary and deal with fur and dust, the right fabric can make life easier.
So next time you're shopping, ask yourself: How easy will this be to clean next week?
If the answer isn’t clear, keep looking. The right fabric is out there, and it can make all the difference.
FAQs
1. What is the best furniture material for homes with both pets and dust in Calgary?
Leather and microfibre are top choices for homes with pets and dust. Leather doesn’t attract pet hair, and dust wipes off easily. Microfibre resists static, so it won’t collect dust or fur, and it’s simple to clean. Both hold up well in Calgary’s dry climate. Look for tight weaves and smooth textures when choosing any fabric. These options reduce the amount of fur and dirt that get stuck in the fibres, making upkeep easier.
2. Can I get stylish furniture that’s also pet-friendly in Calgary?
Yes, there are many stylish and pet-friendly furniture options available in Calgary. Showhome Furniture, located in North Hill Centre, offers a wide selection of Canadian-made sofas and sectionals that come in fabrics like Crypton, leather, and microfibre. These materials are durable, easy to clean, and come in modern designs and colours. With a free design consult, you can choose furniture that matches your style while still being practical for a home with pets and dust.
3. How do I keep pet hair off my couch?
Start by choosing the right fabric—leather, microfibre, or canvas all help repel pet hair. Then, add a washable cover or throw where your pet likes to sit. Brush your pets regularly to reduce shedding. Use a lint roller or vacuum with a brush attachment weekly. If you live in Calgary, where dust and dry air make shedding worse, an air purifier can help cut down on floating hair and particles that settle on furniture surfaces.
4. Does Alberta’s dry climate affect how furniture fabrics wear over time?
Yes, Alberta’s dry climate can affect certain fabrics. Materials like linen and wool may dry out or become brittle faster, especially near heating vents. Dust in the air also settles more easily on textured fabrics. Smooth, tightly woven fabrics like microfibre and leather are more resistant to dryness and dust buildup. If you're buying new furniture in Calgary, it’s smart to consider how well the fabric holds up in low humidity and whether it’s easy to clean.
5. Where can I find custom pet-friendly furniture in Calgary?
Showhome Furniture in Calgary is a top spot for custom pet-friendly furniture. Their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom features a wide range of custom Canadian-made sofas, sectionals, and chairs. You can choose fabrics like Crypton, leather, and microfibre—perfect for homes with pets and dust concerns. Their free design consultation helps you find the right fit for your lifestyle. With repeat customer perks and a large inventory, it’s a solid option for pet owners looking for durable furniture.
Book Your Free Design Consult at Showhome Furniture in Calgary
Not sure which fabric or furniture style works best for your pets and your space? Book a free interior design consultation at Showhome Furniture in Calgary. Their expert team will help you choose pet-friendly options that match your style and lifestyle. You’ll also get access to their wide selection of custom Canadian-made sofas, sectionals, and more. Visit their 70,000 sq. ft. showroom at North Hill Centre and explore high-quality furniture built to handle Alberta dust and pet hair.
