The textures, weaves, and raw materials that go into textiles are a lot to keep track of for the average consumer. However, those that have tackled a home improvement project or hired an interior designer know that the fabric choice is just as important as paint color and countertop style. The right fabric can make or break the look of a room. Especially when it comes to fabrics that require stain resistance, durability, and other practical qualities like fade-resistant and water repellent. Boucle is one of those fabrics that has become very popular in recent years. It’s used in everything from cozy outerwear to chic furniture upholstery. Its unique texture adds a sophisticated appeal that fits in well with both classic and contemporary design aesthetics. The beauty of boucle is that it is a dense, thick material that offers exceptional comfort and warmth. It is often made from wool, but can be crafted with other fancy fibers too, like mohair and alpaca. This material also lends itself to a variety of finishing techniques, such as weaving in ribbon and sequins. This creates a textured appearance that stands out against smooth textiles.
Aside from its warmth and textured appearance, boucle is also a durable material. The woven loops are strong enough to resist stretching and tearing, which makes this fabric a great option for both clothing and furniture upholstery. Additionally, this material is easy to clean. Just be sure to check the care label on your boucle fabric before washing it, as the instructions will give essential information about washing and drying methods. When laundering boucle fabric, it is important to wring out the cloth completely to avoid leaving a damp spot behind. This will allow the fabric to dry faster and prevent water-based stains from setting.
Another great thing about boucle is that it is naturally water and stain resistant. The woven loops work together to create a protective barrier that keeps liquids from seeping into the fabric. It’s a good idea to keep a clean cloth close by in case of accidental spills or stains. However, it is important to not rub a spill or stain into a boucle fabric, as this can damage the yarns and cause permanent markings. Instead, gently dab the stains with the clean cloth to blot away excess liquid.
Boucle fabric requires proper maintenance, including periodic treatment with a stain-repelling product. This will help to keep the fabric looking new and vibrant for a longer period of time. Aside from regular treatment, it is also a good idea to use a non-toxic cleaning solution to protect your boucle fabric from the toxins found in many traditional stain-resistant finishes. These chemicals are harmful to the environment and can be transferred to human skin and ingested by pets and children. At Swyft, we use a non-toxic stain-repellent finish called NANOTEX, which provides superior liquid and stain resistance without the need for PFC’s or PFOA’s. This non-branded soil and stain repellant is Greenguard Gold Certified and works beautifully with our boucle fabric.