One of the reasons we got our Havanese dog was its hypoallergenic qualities, and that it doesn’t shed. We do however know a ton of dog owners who have dogs that do shed and we wanted to share some information about couch fabric to help you out.
The great thing about Havanese dogs is that they don’t shed. As hypoallergenic dogs, they also don’t release allergens into the home. However, we also have a lot of information and fans that have mixed breeds, that do shed a little, and because of that, we thought we would write this article.
What’s the Best Fabric to Repel Dog Hair?
A question every dog owner—or soon-to-be dog owner—eventually asks: What about the hair and my couch?
The good news? If you have a Havanese, you’re already ahead of the game. These charming, hypoallergenic dogs are known for not shedding and for keeping allergens at bay. But for those with mixed breeds or other pups who do shed, pet hair management becomes part of the daily routine. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best couch fabric to keep your furniture looking (and feeling) its best.
So, if you’re shopping for a new sofa or just looking to protect the one you already have—this one’s for you.
Top Dog-Hair-Repellent Fabrics
1. High-Thread-Count Cotton
Tightly woven cotton—especially 100% cotton with a thread count over 500—is a solid option for repelling pet hair. The dense weave doesn’t give hair an easy way to stick. Cotton is breathable, natural, and soft—making it a comfortable and stylish choice. Just be sure to opt for high-thread count to get the best results.
Tip: If you live in a dry climate, static electricity can make dog hair cling to even good fabrics. Consider using a humidifier during dry seasons to minimize static buildup.
2. Microsuede and Microfiber
Microsuede and microfiber are synthetic superstars when it comes to pet-friendly furniture. Because they’re not woven, there’s nowhere for hair to get embedded. It typically stays on the surface, making it easy to vacuum or wipe clean.
Microsuede is:
- Soft and cozy (perfect for cuddles)
- Breathable and stain-resistant
- Durable over time
The only downside? It can be slightly more expensive. But if you value easy maintenance and a clean-looking couch, it’s worth it.
3. Leather
Leather is a go-to for many pet owners, and for good reason. Hair won’t stick—it just sits on the surface until you wipe it away.
Pros of leather:
- Extremely easy to clean
- Doesn’t trap hair or odors
- Resists most stains
Cons:
- Needs regular conditioning to prevent cracking
- Can be scratched by claws, so it may not be ideal for rowdy pups
4. Linen (and Linen Blends)
Linen is another breathable, tightly woven option that does a surprisingly good job at repelling pet hair. It also feels cool and airy—great for warm climates. While pure linen can be pricey, linen-cotton blends with high thread counts are a budget-friendly compromise.
Additional perks of linen:
- Absorbs moisture without feeling damp
- Dries quickly
- Naturally long-lasting and eco-friendly
Fabrics to Avoid If You Have a Shedding Dog
Some materials just aren’t pet-hair friendly, no matter how beautiful they look on a showroom floor.
✘ Corduroy
The deep ridges in corduroy are hair magnets. Pet hair gets trapped easily and can be tough to remove, even with a lint roller or vacuum. While it might work well for a pet bed, it’s not ideal for your furniture or clothes.
Corduroy is not a good choice for clothing and furniture when it comes to pet hair. It’s almost the opposite…it attracts and holds onto the hair. If you have a big dog that doesn’t shed, you’re ok, but if your dog sheds, you might be in trouble.
✘ Velvet and Velour
These fabrics are luxurious to the touch, but unfortunately they love holding onto pet hair. The texture acts like Velcro for fur, and cleaning can be a chore.
✔ Canvas (With a Caveat)
Canvas doesn’t attract hair the way other fabrics do, and it’s incredibly durable. However, it’s not the coziest material to relax on. If comfort is your priority, consider using canvas as a couch cover instead of the primary upholstery. It’s a practical option if your dog spends lots of time on the couch while you’re out.
Final Thoughts
If you’re adding a furry friend to the family—or already have one—your furniture choices don’t have to suffer. From tightly woven cotton to pet-friendly synthetics like microfiber and microsuede, you have stylish and practical options.
Top picks:
- Best overall: Microfiber/Microsuede
- Best natural fabric: High-thread-count cotton
- Easiest to clean: Leather
- Best breathable option: Linen or linen-cotton blends
Choose the fabric that fits your lifestyle (and your dog’s shedding habits), and you’ll spend less time lint rolling—and more time snuggling.