In high-traffic environments—whether an airport terminal, public library, or university study lounge—fabric performance is key to maintaining both comfort and visual appeal. Every day, these spaces welcome hundreds or even thousands of users, putting every surface to the test. The right fabric can make the difference between furniture that wears beautifully and furniture that quickly shows fatigue.

At Ergonomic Home, we design for endurance. From foam density to upholstery finish, every element of our furniture is engineered to balance comfort, aesthetics, and long-term durability. Selecting the proper fabric is one of the most impactful choices in achieving that balance.

Understanding Fabric Durability: The Double Rub Rating

The double rub rating is the industry standard for measuring how well a fabric resists wear. The test counts how many times a material can be rubbed before showing visible signs of wear—simulating someone sitting and standing up repeatedly over time.

According to the Association for Contract Textiles (ACT):

• 30,000 double rubs (DR) – suitable for general woven fabrics
• 50,000 DR – suitable for coated fabrics in commercial use
• 100,000 DR – ideal for high-traffic environments such as airports and libraries

While some materials claim to exceed 100,000 DR, this threshold already represents an excellent balance of comfort and performance. Beyond that point, other factors—like fiber composition, weave tightness, and surface finish—play an equal role in determining longevity.

Summary: Choose a fabric with a double rub rating near 100,000 for dependable performance in high-use settings.

Woven vs. Coated Fabrics

Both woven and coated fabrics have distinct advantages depending on your application and maintenance needs. Understanding their properties helps ensure your choice performs as intended for years to come.

• Woven Fabrics – Comfortable, breathable, and rich in texture. Excellent for screens, panels, and accent seating. However, they can collect dust or crumbs and are more prone to stains. Adding a performance finish like Crypton or Nanotex improves resistance and cleanability.



• Coated Fabrics – Smooth and easy to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic airport lounges and study seating. They offer strong stain resistance but are more susceptible to punctures and may degrade if cleaned with harsh chemicals.

Here’s a closer look at common coated fabric types:

• Polyurethane (PU): An eco-friendly, soft alternative to vinyl. May delaminate with aggressive cleaners.
• Silicone: Extremely stain-resistant and sustainable. Can feel tacky if cleaned improperly.
• Vinyl: Highly durable and easy to sanitize. Less environmentally friendly but extremely practical in demanding environments.

Summary: For seats and chair backs, coated fabrics provide superior stain protection. For panels or accents, woven fabrics bring warmth and texture—especially when treated with a stain blocker.

Consider Cleaning and Maintenance

Even the most durable fabrics will underperform if cleaned incorrectly. Always review care instructions before specifying materials. The wrong chemicals or techniques can drastically shorten the lifespan of upholstery.

When designing for high-traffic environments such as airports or university libraries, cleaning logistics are just as important as the materials themselves. Consider:

• Does your staff have time and tools for vacuuming or spot-cleaning woven textiles?
• Have cleaning teams been trained on the correct solutions for coated fabrics?
• Are stain-resistant finishes being maintained properly over time?

By pairing durable materials with consistent maintenance practices, facilities can extend the life and beauty of their seating investments—ensuring comfort and cleanliness for every visitor.

Balancing Design, Durability, and Experience

There’s no single “perfect” fabric for every space—but there is a right fabric for your space. The key is understanding how users interact with your environment, how maintenance is managed, and what design goals you want to achieve.