When it comes to investing in a new bed, functionality and design go hand in hand. An upholstered bed with hydraulic storage is the epitome of both. It not only offers a sleek, stylish focal point for your bedroom but also provides hidden storage that keeps your space clutter-free. However, one key element often overlooked is the fabric. The material you choose influences everything from durability and comfort to maintenance and aesthetic appeal.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best fabric options for your upholstered bed with hydraulic storage. Whether you’re looking for luxury, practicality, or something in between, there’s a fabric that fits the bill.
1. Velvet: Luxurious and Statement-Making
If you’re after a rich, plush finish, velvet is a top contender. It’s soft to the touch, visually striking, and instantly elevates your bedroom’s elegance. Perfect for master bedrooms or anyone wanting a high-end hotel feel at home.
Pros:
- Incredibly soft and tactile
- Rich colour depth and sheen
- Adds a touch of luxury
Cons:
- Can attract dust and pet hair
- Needs regular maintenance to avoid crushed fibres
- Typically more expensive than other fabrics
Best for: Glamorous bedroom aesthetics and formal settings.
2. Linen: Natural and Breathable
Linen offers a cool, relaxed look that’s great for minimalist or coastal interiors. It has a slightly textured appearance, giving your bed a subtle, organic vibe. Linen is also highly breathable, making it a good option if you tend to sleep hot.
Pros:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Natural fibres, often eco-friendly
- Ideal for summer months
Cons:
- Can wrinkle easily
- Not as soft initially
- May need occasional steaming
Best for: Light, airy bedrooms or anyone prioritising sustainability.
3. Polyester: Durable and Low-Maintenance
Polyester or polyester blends are among the most common choices for upholstered furniture—and for good reason. They’re tough, relatively stain-resistant, and don’t fade easily. If you’ve got children or pets, this fabric is worth considering.
Pros:
- Affordable and durable
- Resistant to wrinkles and fading
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- May not feel as luxurious as natural fibres
- Not as breathable
- Prone to static electricity
Best for: Busy households and budget-conscious buyers.
4. Chenille: Textured and Comfortable
Chenille is all about comfort and texture. It has a soft, velvety feel but with a more casual finish than traditional velvet. Its chunky weave adds visual interest, and it comes in a range of colours.
Pros:
- Plush and soft
- Adds dimension with its texture
- Generally more affordable than velvet
Cons:
- Can snag easily
- Might be harder to clean if spills occur
Best for: Cosy, inviting bedrooms and families wanting comfort without the fuss.
5. Leatherette (Faux Leather): Sleek and Modern
Leatherette offers a sophisticated, contemporary vibe. While not a fabric in the traditional sense, it’s worth including because of its popularity in modern home décor. It pairs especially well with minimalist or industrial bedroom designs.
Pros:
- Wipe-clean surface
- Water-resistant
- Gives a sleek, polished look
Cons:
- Can feel cold to the touch
- Susceptible to cracking over time
- Not as breathable as fabric options
Best for: Modern, urban homes or allergy-sensitive users.
6. Cotton Blend: Soft and Versatile
Cotton blends are classic and comfortable. They strike a good balance between softness and strength. With the right blend, you get the benefits of cotton without the drawbacks of shrinkage or excessive wrinkling.
Pros:
- Soft and breathable
- Widely available and budget-friendly
- Takes colour and prints well
Cons:
- May fade over time
- Can stain if untreated
Best for: Everyday use and buyers wanting a natural feel without high maintenance.
Key Considerations Before Choosing Fabric
When choosing the right fabric for your upholstered bed with hydraulic storage, it’s important to think beyond just colour and texture. The fabric you choose can influence not only the bed’s appearance but also how practical it is in your day-to-day life. Let’s break it down by lifestyle, maintenance, climate, and aesthetics.
- Lifestyle: Got kids or pets? Go for something that can handle a bit of chaos. Durable fabrics like polyester, chenille, or even performance blends are brilliant choices. They’re resistant to snags, stains, and general wear, making them perfect for high-traffic households.
- Maintenance: Not all fabrics clean the same. Velvet and linen might look plush and elegant, but they require more care. If you prefer low-maintenance living, consider microfiber, leatherette, or easy-clean synthetic blends. They’re easier to wipe down and don’t trap dust as easily.
- Climate: Your region’s weather matters. In hot and humid areas, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen blends will keep things cool and comfy. Leatherette, although stylish, can get sticky in the heat and may not be the best for tropical climates.
- Aesthetic: What’s the vibe you’re aiming for? If you’re after a formal, polished look, velvet and leatherette add drama and richness. For a more laid-back, cosy feel, opt for cotton blends or linen. These fabrics are lighter, airier, and better suited to casual interiors.
Choosing fabric is a balance of practicality and personal taste—get it right, and your bed becomes a true centrepiece.
Storage Considerations
With a hydraulic storage bed, you’ll be lifting the mattress base regularly. That means the bed’s structure and the fabric need to be durable and supportive. Go for materials that can handle frequent use without showing wear around the edges or corners.
It’s also worth considering how easily the fabric can be cleaned if you accidentally scuff it while accessing storage. Polyester, leatherette, and chenille tend to fare better in this department.
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Vacuuming: Especially important for textured fabrics like chenille or velvet
- Spot Cleaning: Use mild detergent and a damp cloth; always test on a hidden area first
- Protective Sprays: Fabric protectors can reduce staining, particularly for cotton and linen
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: This helps prevent fading, especially for richly coloured fabrics
Customisation and Personal Touches
Many online and in-store retailers now offer bespoke options. Want a navy blue velvet with brass stud detailing? Or a pale linen with a high headboard and hydraulic lift? You can make it happen. Some even send swatches so you can feel the fabric before you commit.
Don’t forget the headboard style too—button-tufted, panelled, or plain. The fabric you choose can look entirely different depending on how it’s styled.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Match
Choosing the best fabric for your upholstered bed with hydraulic storage boils down to your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and how much effort you’re willing to put into upkeep. While velvet offers unmatched luxury, polyester delivers on practicality. Linen feels airy, chenille gives warmth, and leatherette keeps things sleek and modern.
Pick the fabric that feels like “you”. After all, your bed isn’t just furniture; it’s where you begin and end each day.
So, are you ready to pick your fabric and upgrade your sleep space with an upholstered bed that looks good and hides all your extra stuff? Start by ordering a few swatches, think long-term, and enjoy the transformation!
