Upholstered Dining Chairs vs. Wooden Chairs: Pros and Cons

June 23, 2023

Dining chairs are an important and often overlooked item in setting up a pleasant atmosphere in your home. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to selecting the perfect dining chair, two popular choices include upholstered dining chairs or wooden dining chairs. 

Each type of chair has its own unique pros and cons that can shape which option will work best for you and your space. Let’s discuss each type’s advantages (and disadvantages) to help you easily find the right style to suit your home.

3 Things to Consider When Buying Dining Room Furniture

When purchasing dining room chairs, it is important to carefully assess the key factors that hold significance for you. 

Evaluate how the chairs will fit into your lifestyle and prioritize your preferences, whether it be comfort or style, to ensure you select the ideal chairs that meet your specific needs and create a harmonious dining experience.

Frequency 

Establish how often the chairs will be used; if you enjoy hosting dinner parties, you’ll want to opt for chairs that are both comfortable and durable enough to withstand frequent use. Or, if you like to change decor with seasons or holidays, neutral chairs that can be accented with cushions or other accessories would be ideal. 

Durability 

Likewise, when choosing chairs in high-traffic areas of your home, aim for materials that are easy to clean and resistant to stains. This is especially true if you have kids or pets, as you’ll want chairs that can withstand wear and tear, and potentially spills or scratches.

Harmony

Take into account your interior design aesthetic and opt for chairs that harmonize with the overall look and feel of your dining room. Note elements such as the color scheme, materials, and design styles that are prevalent in the space. 

Read also: Your Guide to Choosing The Perfect Dining Room Table

Pros and Cons of Upholstered Dining Chairs 

For those looking for a comfortable and stylish option for dining chairs, upholstered chairs are the choice for you. These chairs offer a plush and supportive seating experience, making them a fantastic choice for longer meals and gatherings. They come in various and versatile designs, ensuring they can complement any interior style. 

The fabric choice for upholstered dining chairs is just as important as the chair itself. Adding a touch of color and vibrancy to your dining area can be achieved by opting for fun colors or patterns. If you prioritize practicality, selecting stain-resistant fabrics can help protect against spills and dirt.

Likewise, ensuring that the fabric choice aligns with your current interior design style will create a cohesive and visually appealing dining space.

However, upholstered dining chairs do have a few drawbacks. While stain-resistant fabric options are available, it’s important to note that they do not guarantee a completely stain-free chair. In addition, upholstered chairs can easily accumulate dust, pet hair, and allergens, necessitating regular maintenance and cleaning to preserve their pristine condition. 

Moreover, over time, the fabric of upholstered chairs is more susceptible to wear and tear, potentially leading to issues like fading, pilling, or fraying. This may require occasional reupholstering or even replacement of the chairs.

But, if you’re willing to invest some extra care, upholstered dining chairs can offer a superior dining experience in terms of comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Pros and Cons of Wooden Dining Chairs 

Wooden chairs have been a staple in home decor for ages, offering a timeless and classic aesthetic that never goes out of style. Apart from their visual appeal, they are also incredibly durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment. They are also easy to clean and maintain, ensuring that they remain in top shape for years to come. 

In more casual settings, using a wooden bench as a dining chair can be a practical and versatile choice. Wooden benches offer a casual and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for creating a cozy and informal dining experience. They provide ample seating space and can accommodate multiple guests comfortably. 

It is important to note that wooden chairs may provide a different level of cushioned comfort than upholstered dining chairs do. While wooden chairs offer a myriad of design options, they may be limited compared to their upholstered counterparts, and their hard surfaces may not be ideal for extended periods of sitting. 

However, wooden chairs offer the opportunity of purchasing cushions separately, which enhances comfort and tailors the seating experience. These cushions provide a soft and padded surface, making longer sittings more enjoyable and allowing for customization and flexibility to match your personal style and preferences in your dining area.

Overall, wooden dining chairs are a fantastic choice due to their timeless aesthetic, durability, ease of maintenance, and ability to be customized with cushions for added comfort.

Read also: Three Steps to Care for Your New Wood Furniture

Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your personal needs and preferences. Factors such as desired comfort level, maintenance requirements, and overall aesthetic should be considered.

Upholstered chairs offer added comfort and a variety of fabric choices, while wooden chairs provide durability, timeless style, and easy maintenance. 

Both choices can be excellent depending on individual circumstances, so take the time to evaluate your unique requirements and select the chairs that will enhance your dining experience and reflect your personal style.

If you’re looking for a dining room furniture store in Lafayette, LA, visit Albarado’s Fine Furnishings at 205 Winchester Drive, Lafayette, LA. Our staff is ready to assist you in finding dining chairs that will enhance your dining experience and beautifully complement your home.

Get directions!