Floor Sofas With Pets: Fabric, Hair, and Claws
- 3 min reading time
A floor sofa works well with pets because the covers unzip and go in the washing machine, there are no legs or frame to chew, and a low seat is easy for older dogs and cats to reach.
By Mariam, Floorsofa.co · Updated October 2026
A floor sofa works well with pets because the covers unzip and go in the washing machine, there are no legs or frame to chew, and a low seat is easy for older dogs and cats to reach. The trade-off is that pets will treat it as their bed. A throw on their favorite spot, a weekly vacuum, and a monthly wash keep it fresh. Choose a patterned color close to your pet's coat to hide hair between cleanings.
How does the fabric handle pets?
| Issue | What to expect | What helps |
|---|---|---|
| Hair | Collects on the seat like on any upholstery | Lint roller, rubber glove, or vacuum brush |
| Claws | Woven fabric can snag if scratched repeatedly | Trim nails, give cats a scratching post nearby |
| Accidents | Foam absorbs liquid | Act fast; see below |
| Odor | Builds up in covers over time | Monthly wash, airing the foam |
| Muddy paws | Marks on the seat edge | Let mud dry, vacuum, then wash |
Which color hides pet hair?
Pick a color close to your pet's coat, in a busy pattern:
- Light or golden coats: light brown, yellow, or gray.
- Dark coats: navy, dark green, or maroon.
- Mixed coats: a multicolor pattern hides both.
The woven pattern breaks up hair better than a solid fabric would. More on choosing in how to choose a color.
What is the best cleaning routine?
- Daily: a lint roller or damp rubber glove over the main seat.
- Weekly: vacuum every piece with a brush attachment, including seams.
- Monthly: unzip and machine wash the seat covers at 30°C (86°F), gentle cycle, then air dry.
- Every wash: stand the foam upright near an open window to air.
What do you do after an accident?
- Unzip the cover immediately and remove it.
- Press out as much liquid from the foam as you can with dry towels. Do not rub.
- Dab the foam with a pet enzyme cleaner, following the product's instructions.
- Dry the foam upright in moving air until completely dry, which can take a day or more.
- Wash the cover cold with an enzyme detergent and air dry.
Our guide to removing odors from foam cushions has more detail.
How do you set boundaries?
- Give your pet its own floor cushion or bed beside the sofa.
- Keep a washable throw on the seat they choose anyway.
- Put a scratching post near the corner a cat likes.
- Reward them for using their own spot.
Frequently asked questions
Will cats scratch a floor sofa?
Some will, as with any fabric furniture. Trimmed nails and a scratching post nearby help most.
Is a low sofa good for older dogs?
Yes. An 8-inch or 4-inch seat is easy to step onto, with no jumping.
Can I replace a cover if it gets damaged?
Yes, if the fabric is still in production. Message us with your order number.
Does the foam hold pet odors?
Only if liquid reaches it. Covers protect it day to day; air the foam whenever the covers are in the wash.
See pet-friendly colors: 8-inch L-shaped sets · loveseats.
