Review of La-Z-Boy’s Eco-Friendly Upholstery Fabrics: Sustainable Comfort for Your Home

Est. Reading Time: 6 Mins

With climate change at the forefront of global concerns, eco-conscious consumers are seeking sustainable furniture options that don’t compromise on comfort or style. The furniture industry has responded with innovative materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability and aesthetics.

At La-Z-Boy, we are committed to sustainability, offering high-quality upholstery fabrics that are not only stylish but also environmentally responsible. Our Conserve™ Sustainable Fabric is a prime example—made from recycled water bottles, this fabric allows customers to make an eco-friendly choice without sacrificing comfort.

This article explores what makes an upholstery fabric environmentally friendly, highlights the most sustainable fabrics available, and provides an in-depth look at La-Z-Boy’s Conserve Fabric, its benefits, and how it compares to other eco-friendly options.

Key Takeaways:

• Sustainable upholstery fabrics are defined by their materials, production process, and environmental impact.
• The most eco-friendly fabrics include organic cotton, TENCEL™, hemp, and recycled polyester.
• La-Z-Boy’s Conserve™ Fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing landfill waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
• Choosing eco-friendly furniture helps reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and minimize harmful chemicals in the home.
• Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston customers can explore Conserve™ Fabric options at their local La-Z-Boy showrooms.

In This Article…

1. What Makes an Upholstery Fabric Sustainable?
2. Top Environmentally Friendly Upholstery Fabrics
3. Conserve™ Fabric by La-Z-Boy
4. Cost of Sustainable Upholstery Fabrics
5. Why Choose Conserve Fabrics?

What Makes an Upholstery Fabric Sustainable?

When evaluating eco-friendly fabrics, several factors determine their sustainability:

• Material Source: Natural fibers (e.g., organic cotton, hemp) are preferable, but recycled synthetic fibers can also be sustainable.
• Production Process: Energy consumption, chemical treatments, and water usage affect a fabric’s environmental impact.
• Durability: Long-lasting fabrics reduce waste and the need for frequent replacements.
• Biodegradability: Some fabrics decompose naturally, minimizing landfill waste.
• Recycling Potential: Fabrics made from recycled materials (like La-Z-Boy’s Conserve™) help reduce plastic pollution.

By considering these factors, consumers can make informed, sustainable choices when purchasing upholstered furniture.

Top Environmentally Friendly Upholstery Fabrics

Based on the factors listed above, here is a list of the top three most sustainable fabrics to look for when furniture shopping.

1. Organic Cotton

Organic cotton is a natural, biodegradable fabric grown without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Compared to conventional cotton, it significantly reduces environmental impact.

✔ Pros: Chemical-free, biodegradable, soft, breathable
✘ Cons: High water consumption during production

2. TENCEL (Lyocell and Modal)

TENCEL™, derived from sustainably harvested wood pulp, is known for its soft texture, durability, and antibacterial properties. It requires less water than cotton and is biodegradable.

✔ Pros: Sustainable sourcing, soft and durable, moisture-wicking
✘ Cons: Requires chemical processing (though with closed-loop systems to minimize waste)

3. Hemp

Hemp is a fast-growing, pesticide-free crop that produces strong, biodegradable fabric. It requires 50% less water than cotton and naturally resists bacteria and UV light.

✔ Pros: Low water usage, highly durable, biodegradable
✘ Cons: Stiff texture initially, but softens with use

4. Recycled Polyester (rPET)

Recycled polyester is made from post-consumer plastic waste, such as water bottles, reducing landfill waste and plastic pollution. It is an excellent alternative to virgin polyester, which is derived from fossil fuels.

✔ Pros: Diverts plastic waste, durable, stain-resistant
✘ Cons: Not biodegradable but recyclable

Conserve Fabric by La-Z-Boy

At La-Z-Boy, we prioritize eco-friendly upholstery options without compromising on style or durability. Our Conserve™ Sustainable Fabric is an innovative material made from recycled water bottles, offering customers a sustainable and stylish upholstery choice.

How is Conserve Fabric Made?

1. Plastic water bottles are collected from recycling centers.
2. Bottles are washed, sorted, and shredded into flakes.
3. Flakes are melted down and transformed into durable fiber.

The fiber is woven into high-quality fabric with soft textures and stylish finishes.

This process helps reduce landfill waste and gives plastic bottles a second life in the form of comfortable, high-quality furniture upholstery.

Cost of Sustainable Upholstery Fabrics

Sustainable upholstery fabrics can vary in price depending on the material and production process.

*Please note that La-Z-Boy prices listed in this article are subject to change without notice. Information is current as of February 28th, 2025. Contact your local La-Z-Boy Ottawa, Gatineau and Kingston store by phone or in person for up-to-date pricing.

Why Choose Conserve Fabric?

When selecting upholstery, you want a fabric that offers comfort, durability, and style while also being environmentally responsible. La-Z-Boy’s Conserve™ Fabric delivers on all fronts, offering a sustainable, high-quality alternative to traditional upholstery.

1. Sustainability: Turning Plastic Waste into High-Quality Fabric

Each sofa upholstered in Conserve™ Fabric diverts up to 110 plastic water bottles from landfills, giving them a second life as soft and durable upholstery. By using recycled materials instead of virgin polyester, Conserve™ helps reduce carbon emissions, minimize waste, and lower energy consumption during production.

2. Style & Comfort: Soft, Luxurious Feel Without Compromising Design

Unlike some recycled fabrics that feel stiff or synthetic, Conserve™ is woven to mimic the softness of traditional upholstery. Available in a variety of colors and patterns, this fabric blends seamlessly into any home design, allowing you to make an eco-friendly choice without sacrificing style or comfort.

3. Durability: Built for Everyday Life

Conserve™ Fabric is designed to withstand daily use, making it an excellent option for families, pet owners, and high-traffic spaces. Its stain-resistant fibers repel spills, while its fade-resistant properties ensure lasting color vibrancy. Plus, it’s easy to clean, requiring only mild soap and water for maintenance.

By choosing Conserve™ Fabric, you’re investing in long-lasting quality while making a positive impact on the environment—proof that sustainability and style can go hand in hand.

What’s Next?

With all of these environmentally friendly options available, your mind and conscience can now be at ease. You can be confident that your next furniture purchase will not be harmful to the planet. 

So, with that being said, why not start shopping today? 

Visit us at a local Ottawa, Gatineau or Kingston La-Z-Boy location to start browsing our wide range of furniture today. If you’d prefer to plan ahead, schedule your visit online. 

We look forward to helping you find the perfect furniture and even better, helping you select stylish upholstery from our conserve fabric options. To learn more about La-Z-Boy fabrics, take a look at our Upholstery Fabrics Guide.

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