What a rub count measures
Abrasion tests rub a sample of fabric until it shows visible wear or a set number of threads break. The result is given as a number of rubs or cycles. Higher means the fabric resisted abrasion for longer in the test. It doesn't measure pilling, fading or stain resistance, which are tested separately.
Martindale
Used mainly in the UK and Europe. The sample is rubbed in a figure-of-eight pattern against a standard wool or abrasive cloth. Typical guidance for furniture fabric:
| Martindale rubs | Typical description |
|---|---|
| Under about 10,000 | Decorative use, such as cushions and throws |
| About 10,000 to 15,000 | Light domestic use, occasional seating |
| About 15,000 to 25,000 | General domestic use |
| About 25,000 and above | Heavy domestic use; a sensible minimum for a sofa bed in daily use |
| About 30,000 to 40,000 and above | Commercial and contract seating |
Wyzenbeek
Common in North America. The sample is rubbed back and forth in a straight line, and the result is given in double rubs. A common rule of thumb is that 15,000 double rubs or more suits heavy residential use, and 30,000 or more suits commercial use.
Martindale and Wyzenbeek use different machines and motions, so the numbers can't be converted reliably from one to the other. Compare fabrics using the same test.
Common fibres compared
| Type | Abrasion | Stain resistance | Pets | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polyester and microfibre | Good | Good | Good | Smooth, soft |
| Cotton | Fair | Limited | Limited | Breathable, natural |
| Linen and linen blends | Fair | Limited | Limited | Crisp, creases |
| Wool and wool blends | Good | Fair | Fair | Warm, resilient |
| Chenille | Fair | Fair | Poor | Plush, snags easily |
| Leather | Good | Fair | Fair | Cool, scratches show |
Weave and finish
- Tight, flat weaves resist snagging from claws and buckles better than loose or looped weaves such as bouclé.
- Performance finishes resist spills for a time. They wear off with cleaning, so check whether the finish can be reapplied.
- Pattern and texture hide wear and marks; flat pale colours show them.
Extra points for sofa beds
- Seat cushions on pull-outs come off every time the bed opens. Zipped, removable covers are easier to keep straight and to clean.
- On click-clacks and pull-forward beds you sleep on the upholstery. A smoother, breathable fabric is more comfortable against bedding.
- Ask for the cleaning code before you choose a pale colour. See care and cleaning.
Fire safety labels
Upholstered furniture sold in the UK must meet fire safety regulations and carry a permanent label. Rules elsewhere differ, and some have changed in recent years. Check the label on the item and the current rules where you live rather than relying on a general summary.