With forecasters warning of an increased chance of heatwaves and above-average temperatures across the UK this July and August furniture experts are urging homeowners to protect their sofas from prolonged heat and UV exposure before the hottest weather arrives.
Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse, shares her expert advice on how homeowners can protect their sofas during periods of hot weather.
Heat and sunlight can cause more damage than many people realise
One of the biggest risks during a heatwave is prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Magdalena explains,
“Many people don’t realise that the sun shining through windows can gradually affect their furniture. UV rays can cause fabrics to fade over time, while prolonged heat can dry out certain natural materials and affect the overall appearance of your sofa.”
“Even if the damage isn’t noticeable straight away, repeated exposure can leave colours looking uneven and make furniture appear older than it really is.”
Homes with large south-facing windows or conservatories are particularly vulnerable, as sofas positioned in direct sunlight receive the highest levels of UV exposure.
Some sofa materials are more susceptible than others
The material of a sofa plays an important role in how well it withstands heat and sunlight. According to Magdalena, natural fabrics tend to be more vulnerable to fading than many synthetic alternatives.
She adds,
“Natural fibres such as cotton and linen can lose their colour more quickly when exposed to regular sunlight, particularly darker shades. Leather also needs more attention during hot weather, as excessive heat can cause it to dry out, making it more susceptible to cracking if it isn’t properly cared for.”
“Many modern performance fabrics offer improved resistance to fading, but no upholstery material is completely immune to the effects of prolonged UV exposure.”
She recommends considering where a sofa will be positioned within the room, particularly if it sits close to large windows or bi-fold doors that receive direct sunlight for long periods during the day.
A little heatwave aftercare can help restore your sofa
While faded fabric cannot usually be reversed, there are some ways people can refresh their furniture after periods of extreme heat.
Magdalena explains,
“Giving your sofa a thorough hoovering can help remove dust that builds up during warmer months, while gently cleaning upholstery using products suitable for the specific fabric can help restore its overall appearance.”
“For leather sofas, applying a quality leather conditioner can help replace some of the moisture lost during hot weather and keep the material pliable.”
She also recommends rotating and plumping cushions regularly to encourage even wear and maintain the shape of the seating, adding, “Simple maintenance after a heatwave can make a noticeable difference. Looking after your sofa throughout the year will help it continue looking its best for longer.”
Protect your sofa before the next heatwave arrives
Prevention remains the best way to minimise sun and heat damage. Magdalena recommends closing blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to reduce direct sunlight on furniture.
She said,
“If your sofa sits in front of a window, even partially closing blinds during peak sunlight hours can significantly reduce UV exposure. Sheer curtains are another good option because they allow natural light into the room while helping to soften the effects of direct sunshine.”
For homes where moving furniture is practical, she also suggests repositioning sofas slightly away from windows during prolonged periods of hot weather.
She adds,
“Regularly rotating loose cushions helps ensure one side isn’t constantly exposed to the sun, allowing fabrics to wear more evenly over time.”
“Taking a few simple preventative steps can help preserve the colour, comfort and condition of your sofa, particularly during summers where heatwaves become more frequent.”
