Upholstered bed frames have surged in popularity, offering visual warmth, comfortable headboards, and design versatility that hard-surface frames can't match. But the fabric choice affects far more than aesthetics—it determines how the bed feels, how it wears over time, how easily it cleans, and how well it suits your lifestyle. This comprehensive guide examines the most common upholstery options to help you select the perfect fabric for your bedroom.
Understanding Upholstery Basics
Before comparing specific fabrics, it helps to understand how upholstered beds are constructed. A wooden or metal internal frame provides structure, while layers of foam padding create the soft surface. The upholstery fabric wraps over this padding, typically stapled or glued to the frame beneath. Quality varies significantly—budget beds may use thin padding and loosely-woven fabric, while premium options feature dense foam and tightly-constructed textiles.
When evaluating fabrics, consider these key factors:
- Durability: How well it resists wear, pilling, and fading
- Cleanability: How easily stains and dirt are removed
- Feel: The tactile experience against skin
- Breathability: Important in Australian climates
- Appearance: How it looks and suits your decor
Fabric durability is measured in Martindale rubs—how many abrasion cycles the fabric withstands before showing wear. General guidelines:
- Light residential use: 10,000-15,000 rubs
- Regular residential use: 15,000-25,000 rubs
- Heavy residential use: 25,000+ rubs
Velvet: Luxury and Drama
Velvet beds make a bold statement. The fabric's dense pile creates a rich, lustrous appearance that shifts with light, adding depth and glamour to any bedroom. Modern velvet is typically polyester or a poly-cotton blend rather than traditional silk, making it more affordable and durable while retaining the luxurious aesthetic.
Pros
- Stunning visual impact and perceived luxury
- Soft, pleasant texture against skin
- Available in rich, saturated colours
- Modern synthetic velvets are reasonably durable
Cons
- Shows dust, pet hair, and lint readily
- Pile can crush and flatten over time
- Not the easiest to clean—often requires professional treatment
- Can feel warm in hot weather
Best for: Adults-only bedrooms with minimal pet exposure, those seeking a glamorous focal point, rooms with good climate control.
Linen and Linen-Look Fabrics
Linen offers a relaxed, natural aesthetic that suits coastal, Scandinavian, and contemporary farmhouse styles. True linen is woven from flax fibres, while linen-look fabrics may blend cotton, polyester, and other fibres to achieve similar aesthetics at lower cost with improved durability.
Pros
- Natural, breathable material—excellent for Australian climates
- Relaxed, slightly textured appearance
- Available in natural, neutral tones
- Develops attractive patina with age
Cons
- Pure linen wrinkles and creases easily
- May absorb stains quickly if not treated
- Lighter colours show dirt
- Can feel coarse compared to softer fabrics
Best for: Warm climates, natural/coastal decor styles, those who appreciate relaxed imperfection.
Key Takeaway
Linen-blend fabrics often outperform pure linen for upholstery—they maintain the natural aesthetic while resisting wrinkles and staining better than pure flax.
Leather and Faux Leather
Leather bed frames exude sophistication and are prized for their durability and easy cleaning. Genuine leather develops a unique patina over decades, while quality faux leather (PU or PVC) provides a similar look at lower cost.
Genuine Leather
- Extremely durable with proper care—can last decades
- Cleans easily with damp cloth
- Develops attractive patina over time
- Breathable and temperature-regulating
- Significant investment—quality leather beds are expensive
Faux Leather (PU/PVC)
- Much more affordable than genuine leather
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Consistent appearance—no natural variations
- May peel or crack over time, particularly in heat
- Less breathable than genuine leather
Best for: Easy-clean requirements, sleek modern or industrial aesthetics, allergy sufferers (doesn't trap dust like fabric).
In Australian climates, particularly in north-facing bedrooms or rooms without air conditioning, faux leather can become uncomfortably hot and sticky. It may also degrade faster under UV exposure. Consider placement and climate before choosing.
Performance Fabrics
Performance fabrics—developed for contract and outdoor use—are increasingly popular for residential upholstery. Brands like Crypton, Sunbrella, and Revolution offer textiles engineered for stain resistance, cleanability, and durability that far exceeds traditional upholstery fabrics.
Pros
- Exceptional stain resistance—liquids bead rather than absorb
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- Highly durable—typically 50,000+ Martindale rubs
- Resistant to fading and UV damage
- Many options feel soft despite technical construction
Cons
- Higher cost than standard fabrics
- May have slight synthetic feel
- Limited colour/pattern options compared to traditional fabrics
Best for: Families with children, pet owners, anyone prioritising practicality over luxury aesthetics.
Bouclé and Textured Weaves
Bouclé—with its looped, nubby texture—has become a major trend in interior design. This and other textured weaves add visual interest and a handcrafted feel to upholstered beds. The three-dimensional surface creates depth that flat fabrics can't match.
Pros
- On-trend, designer aesthetic
- Interesting texture adds depth to bedroom design
- Available in warm, neutral tones
- Soft, cosy feel
Cons
- Looped texture prone to snagging
- Traps pet hair and lint
- Difficult to clean thoroughly
- Trend-driven—may feel dated in 5-10 years
Best for: Design-conscious adults, pet-free homes, those willing to trade practicality for style.
Colour and Pattern Considerations
Dark vs. Light
Light-coloured upholstery creates an airy, spacious feel but shows every mark and stain. Dark colours hide dirt better but may dominate smaller rooms and show dust more readily. Mid-tones often provide the best balance of aesthetics and practicality.
Patterns and Textures
Patterns and visible textures help camouflage minor stains and wear. They also add visual interest that solid colours can't match. However, bold patterns may limit future decor changes, while subtle textures remain versatile long-term.
- Consider your bedding colours—will they complement or clash?
- Mid-grey, mushroom, and taupe are versatile and forgiving
- Request fabric samples before purchasing to assess in your light
- Remember the headboard is the largest visible surface
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular Maintenance
All upholstered beds benefit from regular vacuuming with an upholstery attachment. This removes dust, dead skin cells, and surface debris before they work into the fabric. Vacuum weekly in high-use areas and monthly elsewhere.
Spot Cleaning
Address spills immediately—blot (don't rub) with a clean, damp cloth. For stubborn stains, use appropriate cleaners for your fabric type. Test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous area first. Keep in mind that some fabrics require professional cleaning only.
Professional Cleaning
Annual professional cleaning extends the life of upholstered furniture and refreshes appearance. This is particularly important for fabrics that can't be wet-cleaned at home, including velvet and some natural fibres.
Making Your Decision
The right fabric balances your aesthetic preferences with practical requirements. Consider honestly who uses the bedroom—if children or pets have access, prioritise performance and cleanability. For adult-only sanctuaries, you have more freedom to choose based on appearance and feel.
Climate matters too. In warm, humid Australian regions, breathable fabrics like linen and genuine leather perform better than synthetic options that trap heat. In air-conditioned environments, you have broader options.
Finally, consider longevity. A bed frame is a significant investment that should serve you for many years. Choosing a classic fabric in a versatile colour ensures your bed won't feel dated as interior trends evolve. Bold velvet in a trendy shade might delight you now but limit your decor options in five years.
With careful consideration of these factors, you'll select an upholstered bed that looks beautiful, feels wonderful, and wears well for years of comfortable sleep.