Coated fabric upholstery is used throughout healthcare facilities. Often the upholstery is cleaned with harsh chemical cleaners designed for hard surfaces. This has the potential to damage the upholstery.

Polyurethane (PU) is a composite material made of: (1) one or more layers of polymer resins joined by urethane links; and (2) a woven or non-woven textile backing such as polyester, cotton, nylon, or ground leather.

Faux leather is one of several names given to artificial or synthetic leather. These names are often used to describe specific end uses of synthetic leather products such as faux leather (sofa, chair and headboard upholstery), leatherette (auto upholstery, clothing), and koskin (consumer goods). There are three primary types of faux leather construction: polyurethane (“PU”), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC – “Vinyl”). and silicone.

Silicone textiles are the newest coated fabrics available for seating upholstery. Silicone offers several advantages over traditional coated fabrics including a more environmentally responsible manufacturing process and finished product. Silicone fabrics also demonstrate exceptional performance characteristics.

Tips on upholstering with faux leather including foam, stiching, needles, thread, etc.

There are many tests available to establish faux leather’s product performance specifications. However, certain tests are more important when screening a product for a particular application. The basic tests address strength, durability and performance characteristics.