Best Overall
Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield
Runner-Up
Guardsman Fabric Defense
Best Bang for the Buck
SoftClad Extra-Strength Fabric Protector
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High - quality furnishing can cost a pretty penny , so protecting your investment from everyday accident is overbold . textile protectors create a water - repellent and stain - resistant barrier against spills , spot , odors , and sunlight melt . We want to know how in effect thesecleaning suppliesare , so we tested them on our furniture , drape , rugs , and other item . Our favorite , theScotchgard Fabric Water Shield , can be used to protect clothes , upholstery , linen , pillow , and more .
We also chat with Asad Shamim , CEO ofFurniture in Fashion , a guide contemporaneous article of furniture brand with a potent mien in both the United States and the United Kingdom . “ Fabric protectors work by creating a roadblock on the fabric that repels liquid state and dirt , ” Shamim said . “ This makes it leisurely to make clean up fall and prevents grease from setting in . ”
When used as directed , these products protect piece of furniture , curtains , and rugs from looking old and drab before their metre . The better cloth guardian are unsubdivided to go for , leave a transparent , breathable , and effective protective layer . forrader , larn the best ways to keep your fabric items calculate newfangled , and find out how the follow production earned a spot in this lineup of the good framework guardian .
Our Top Picks
The just textile protector are lightweight in grain and effective at shield upholstery and furnishings , making them well-heeled to clean without affecting the colour and finale of the material . The play along products vary in the eccentric of fabrics they treat , but all were effective in adding a measure ofwaterproof tribute .
Scotchgard ’s Fabric Water Shield can protect almost any fabric airfoil typically found in the home . This spraying chemical formula is designed to beat back water - based spill to create stain - resistant , easier - to - sporty surfaces . It ’s intended for use on a range of indoor household items , such as upholstered furniture , curtain , stroke pillows , and table linens . It ’s also suitable to use on finespun cloth like wearable and accouterment , including shirts , garb , outerwear , rucksack , and canvas brake shoe .
Scotchgard fabric aerosol spray is unproblematic to practice and make a waterproofing shield for long - lasting fabric protection . In our mental testing , Water Shield did a great problem of drive liquids and stains — after two light coats of the product . Wine , water , and coffee beaded up on the surface and then wiped justly off .
We wonder how long the water would bead , so we leave it on a treated fabric swatch for 2 hours . When we suss out — it was still on the open ; it had n’t been absorbed .
The lightweight chemical formula did n’t exchange the grain or flavour of fabrics . On the downside , the chemic smell during app was firm . We ended up plow the fabric swatches , opening the windows , and leaving the room to keep from have headaches . The Cartesian product also slightly darkened the colored portions of our swatch , which we did n’t care for . Not much — just a shade — and the manufacturer tell right on the can that it could make some colors deep and richer . We ’d advise testing it on a hidden sphere before using it to cover an full upholstered item .
If you may endure a strong odour during app and do n’t mind a very slender hue transmutation , this Scotchgard intersection offer a high level of liquidness and stain aegis .
Read our full follow-up : Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield
Get the Scotchgard Fabric Water Shield fabric protector atAmazon , The Home Depot , orWalmart .
Guardsman advocate its upholstery protector for upholstered piece of furniture , rugs , carpeting , drapery , table linens , and machine DoI . It harbour most fabrics except for finished and aniline leather .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Guardsman ’s Fabric Defense performed well in our tests . It protect psychometric test fabrics ( and carpeting ) from stains . The fabrics we cover with Guardsman repelled body of water , coffee , and wine-colored , with all three liquidness beading up and remaining on the control surface . When we blotted up the liquid , no stains were leave behind .
The manufacturer recommend enforce two coat , with a 4 - hr wait period between . The downside is that this product produces a potent chemical odour during software ; we recommend using it only with passable ventilation .
Its aerosol lotion seemed peculiarly effective in assure a consistent coating , even on the textured control surface of our cam stroke rug .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
This picking did n’t change the look or palpate of our examination fabrics . It ’s odorless once it dries , provides long - lasting protective cover against stains , and makes deal materials easier to scavenge . However , it ’s important to observe that it ’s not suitable for use on leather , which typically requires a specialized ware for adequate protection .
Get the Guardsman framework protector atAmazon , The Home Depot(2 - camp ) , orWalmart .
SoftClad ’s surplus Strength Fabric Protector spray is a practiced choice for repelling liquidness and is effective at shield various fabric type for an affordable cost . We applied two light coats per the producer ’s good word , waiting 24 hours between pelage . We also regale the open of a throw rug because the manufacturing business lists carpet among the items the product protect .
Photo: amazon.com
SoftClad did a great job of protecting our framework swatches : The liquid state beaded on the surface , did n’t soak in , and did n’t leave a trace when we blotted them up . unluckily , the production faltered when we apply it to a carpet , which might not have been quite as protected due to its bumpy grain . While the test liquid did bead up on some area of the carpet , they sop into other stain , and after blotting , some stains stay . We feel this mathematical product is best suit to flat - surface fabrics , such as upholstery and curtains .
One far-famed highlight of SoftClad was its almost indiscernible scent during software , which fly entirely upon dry out . Additionally , the product did not change the vividness or grain of the fabrics . good of all , it come at an attractive price item .
Despite not successfully protecting the rug in our trial run , SoftClad ’s Extra - Strength Fabric Protector did an excellent occupation repelling liquids and smear from our cloth swatches . Best of all , it ’s nearly odourless . This material protector atomiser comes in a heart spray nursing bottle and dries decipherable .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the SoftClad fabric protector spray atAmazon .
Best for Carpets and Rugs
Scotchgard Rug & Carpet Protector
From dirty shoes to daily spills , carpets and rugs devolve victim to constant menage messiness . Scotchgard Rug & Carpet Protector can help screen these floor surfaces thanks to a triple - military action formula that rebuff spills , resists soils , and guards against dirt . Once utilize , the protector repels smooth spills so they wo n’t sink deep in rug fibre , making them easier to wipe up .
We tested this Scotchgard product only on rugs since that ’s what it ’s primarily plan to protect . We followed the program program line and sprayed the product equally to our mental testing area from about 2 feet away . It survive on as a foam and within about 10 minutes , the foam hock into our test rug ’s textured surface . We waited 6 minute and then applied a second coat and let it dry .
In addition to applying small sum of body of water , wine , and coffee , we also walk across the rug with muddy shoes and let the mud dry before vacuuming . This Scotchgard ware rebuff the liquidness and result no soil behind when we fleck them up . After the clay from our horseshoe was altogether dry , we hoover , and the dirt derive off quickly and left no stains . We were impressed .
Photo: amazon.com
The mathematical product protect well and did n’t shift the look or sense of our rug , but we were disappointed with the coverage . One 14 - ounce can regale a 6 - foot - long by 5 - infantry - wide area — and that ’s just one coating , not two — so it could take several cans to do by most carpeted elbow room . The manufacturing business recommends re - treating every 6 month or after every rug cleaning .
Get the Scotchgard Rug & Carpet framework defender atAmazon , Ace Hardware , orWalmart .
Best for Outdoors
Scotchgard Sun & Water Shield
Outdoor fabrics face their own lot of challenge . Rain , coke , and ultraviolet ( UV ) rays can all cause damage , including staining , mildew , and fading , as well as the fall and stain of everyday use . Scotchgard Sun & Water Shield is designed for outdoor use to protect from these prejudicial dangers .
This fabric - protecting atomiser treat outside textile with a water - repellant and UV - blocking coat . This coating help to balk stains , make spills loose to wipe up , and protect colors from sun fading . It ’s suitable for various typical backyard surface , including terrace cushions , umbrellas , grill cover , tarps , masthead , and sunblind , to keep out-of-door items stain - resistant and vivacious .
We utilize Sun & Water Shield to out-of-door canvas cushions and a patio umbrella by spray a exclusive coating uniformly over the fabric and then allowing it to dry completely . A 2d coating is not necessary . Since we tested over just a couple of weeks , we could n’t determine whether this outdoor Scotchgard fabric protector would protect against harsh UV ray that might fade the fabric ’s color . Still , we were able-bodied to test its waterproofed and stainproof factor .
Photo: amazon.com
We sprayed the terrace umbrella with the garden hose , and the water system ran aright off , leaving the textile feeling dry to the cutaneous senses . We applied little amounts of wine and umber to the out-of-door cushion , and neither soaked in . When we spot the liquids , the textile was clear — no foretoken of a brand .
Another upper side — we did n’t discover any coarse chemical smell with this nebulizer , although that could have been due to being alfresco . It did n’t seem to change the fabric ’s color ; it was clear and unnoticeable when it dry .
Get the Scotchgard Sun & Water fabric protector atAmazon , The Home Depot , orWalmart .
Photo: amazon.com
Best for Cars
Chemical Guys Fabric Guard Interior Protector
Daily natural process like commuting , shuttling kids , and grocery store runs can quickly make a pot of car Interior Department . To reduce article of clothing and tear , consider this interior guardian product from Chemical Guys , a stain - repellent and UV guardian . The product ’s hydrophobic technology prevents wasteweir from soaking deep into auto seating room and carpets .
We try this fabric protector on our car ’s derriere upholstery as well as the floor matting , which boast thin - nap carpet on a prophylactic backing . The education say to apply a pelage and let it dry for 20 minutes before applying a second coat . The spray went on uniformly and was quickly absorb . The first affair we noticed was that this spray actually smelled good ! With a name like Chemical Guys , we were ready for an overbearing toxic smell and were surprise by the pleasing aroma . That ’s a definite plus .
After the 2nd coat dried , we used water , java , and vino to test the merchandise ’s water - repellent power . All three beaded on the top of the fabrics and did n’t soak in or leave stains . We could not swear the product ’s ability to prevent car interiors from fading since our testing period only lasted a few weeks . Still , its water - repellant factor alone was worth its software program .
Photo: amazon.com
Chemical Guys is made for function on car seats , carpets , and door venire , and the formulation wo n’t harm automotive finishes .
Get the Chemical Guys fabric protector atWalmartorAutoZone .
Best for Large Areas
TriNova Non-Aerosol Stain Guard
Those with big surfaces to protect might want to consider this 128 - ounce TriNova Non - Aerosol Stain Guard bottle . Its bulk size of it provides enough fabric aegis to cover multiple pieces of piece of furniture or several room of carpeting . This expectant jug is a refill sizing , with no sprayer include , so we fill a disjoined spray bottle with the solution for promiscuous spray .
We applied TriNova to fabric swatches and a cam stroke pillow , and since it ’s also suitable for outdoor fabrics , we treated a cycling jacket as well . The maker suggests spraying in a crisscross approach pattern for uniform coverage and then waiting 24 hours before using the token . The smell was meek but slightly disagreeable . The odor was much secure than some of the other mathematical product we tested , but it ’s still a skilful mind to start the window for ventilation .
We tested the swatches , jacket , and rest with H2O , coffee , and wine . The liquids bead up on all fabrics and left no stains after blotting . Since the size of the container is so large , we feel we could have used it in a small heart sprayer if we ’d wanted to handle an total carpet or other large item .
Photo: amazon.com
The downside is that this product does n’t have quite the staying mightiness as some of the others . The manufacturer urge reapplying it every 35 to 45 Clarence Day .
Get the TriNova fabric guardian atAmazon , Lowe’s(18 apothecaries' ounce ) , orWalmart(18 snow leopard ) .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Fabric Protectors
Before test the fabric protectors , we researched more than 20 different mathematical product . We considered the stain to an extent — after all , Scotchgardis highly regard for its framework - protecting product . However , we did n’t automatically extinguish a production from a lesser - known producer if users liked it and it performed well . We wanted to find the good products , no matter who made them .
In actual testing , we hold each production to various fabric types — in conjunctive with the fabric types they were each made to plow . We followed the manufacturer ’s recommended covering method and number of coat . When the fabric defender were dry , we applied dissimilar liquidity to the surface , include water , coffee tree , and wine . We waitress a few minutes and then fleck them up to see if they left dirt .
We present points base on a rubric ; the better a product performed , the more point we award . We also noted whether the ware affected the material in any way and whether it had a strong or disagreeable odor . We recorded the pros and cons we find so our referee would know what to expect from each intersection before purchasing .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
What to Consider When Choosing a Fabric Protector
There are various types of material defender product , stray from multipurpose formulas for a host of materials to task - specific nebuliser made formaintaining out-of-door fabrics , fomite interiors , and marine fabrics . Regardless of the protector type , keep the product ’s ease of diligence , fabric compatibility , coverage , and environmental shock in nous when shopping .
Simple Application
Most fabric protectors come in nebulizer manikin , which enables user to coat the framework surface chop-chop and evenly , usually by either demoralise a trigger or hold up a release . Since fabric protector sprays need occasional reapplying , ease of use is important .
Do n’t lease the simplicity of the coating make you trigger - happy ! Keep colorfastness in mind before handle any fabric , pull in indisputable to fall out the manufacturer ’s instructions on what surfaces can be treated . While most fabric shielder are good to use on a scope of material , it ’s best to test an inconspicuous expanse before spray the entire surface . This simple step can help ensure that the product wo n’t negatively affect the material ’s colouring material or texture .
To allow for right security , the nebuliser will want to dry full . Drying clip varies from product to ware and can range from 10 minutes to overnight . Quick - dry out formulas are available and they ’re idealistic for high - dealings , heavy - use piece like an entranceway carpet or family way sofa , which can be used fairly speedily after treatment .
Fabric Variety
Different fabric protectors work on specific fabric type . You ’ll find spray designed for indoor or outside manipulation . Other nebuliser are specified for synthetic or raw fabrics .
Multipurpose spray can protect a range of upholstery , curtains , carpets , and other furnishings as well as other household item , such as shoes , hat , and backpacks . Protector sprays with a specific use admit those for patio piece of furniture , car inside , and marine textile . Before using any nebulizer , read the recording label guidance to check that it is safe on your intended surface , especially for ticklish fabrics like velvet , silk , and someleather types .
Also look at if the spray is for indoor use of goods and services , outside use , or both . Outdoor cloth sprays usually offer better weatherproofing and ultraviolet fade protection to make outdoorfurniture easy to cleanand maintain .
Coverage
Fabric shielder coat framework to help keep liquids and soil from penetrating late into the fibers . Some protector also guard against UV scathe that have fading . To ensure proper protection , read label to see a product that addresses your main care , and verify to grease one’s palms enough to cover the intact control surface . It would be moderately inconvenient to consort out of nebuliser with , say , two deck of cards chair cushions untreated .
The good textile protectors have high - quality atomizer mechanisms to dissipate a fine , all-embracing mist . A good nebuliser and a unwavering , methodical practical software is primal to ascertain an area is properly protect .
Aerosol spray containers and pump spray bottles are both vulgar . Both type can provide fantabulous reporting , though aerosols be given to have a okay mist . By reading Cartesian product reviews , you could check to confirm that the sprayers do n’t be given to stick or become easy constipate .
Environmentally Friendly
Aerosol sprays are well-fixed to apply , but these products amount with environmental business . While aerosol products no longer contain ozone - wipe out ingredients like chlorofluorocarbons , they may still contain hydrocarbon , compressed gases , and volatile organic compound , all known to be environmentally wild . Pump atomizer bottles are often a better choice for the eco - conscious .
Due to their chemical constituent , many fabric protector product have a stiff flavour . While the olfactory property will melt over meter , it can be bothersome for some people , particularly for indoor role . as luck would have it for those with olfactory sensitivities , depleted - odor alternative that dry without a rough smell are usable .
Tips for Using Fabric Protector
With the right fabric protector , you could make your furniture count firebrand new , be easy to clean , and have better resistance to tumble and stains . Fabric shielder can be applied by a professional serving or as a DIY job , with the latter being the more affordable selection .
FAQs
A fabric protector can render your sofa , carpet , car inside , and other surfaces with an extra stratum of protection against wasteweir and stains . Once you ’ve selected the effective fabric protector for your needs , view the following frequently asked question and response for the most effective use of the product .
Q. What can a fabric protector be used on?
Most textile protectors can be used on a wide range of home fabric , include upholstered furniture , curtains , rug , and carpets . Some can even be used on shoes , bags , and out-of-door gearing — just come to to the merchandise label to see what surface are safe for use .
Q. Are fabric protectors safe for all fabrics?
Not all protectors are safe for all fabric types , so it ’s best to say the product label and conduct a patch examination before spray down a surface .
Q. How long does fabric protection last?
According to Shamim , “ Fabric guardian typically last for several month , but their lifespan can alter look on the case of fabric and the amount of clothing and tear it obtain . ”
Q. Can you wash a fabric that has a protector on it?
Yes , but the material protector may need to be reapplied after laundering .
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a production tester and author specializing in the building , remodeling , and real estate industry . She and her husband own a oecumenical catching company , and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial construction app . She tests a wide range of force tools as well as other home plate improvement , household , and lawn - and - garden merchandise .
Additional inquiry provide by Jasmine Harding .
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