5 Best Upholstered Pet-friendly Benches Influencers Recommend
Accessibility first: why I start here
I always think about accessibility before anything else. If a bench isn’t easy to get in and out of, or if cleaning it requires gym-level effort, I’ll pass. That mindset drives how I choose upholstered, pet-friendly benches—because life with pets should feel effortless and beautiful.
I asked myself: what would a top YouTuber with a deep furniture obsession pick for a busy household? The answers below come from creators like ArchitecturalDigest, Mr. Kate, and The Sorry Girls—channels that focus on practical, stylish home solutions. I’ll walk you through five real, available benches they’d recommend, and why they work for my life with cats, dogs, and a busy schedule.
How I chose these benches (what I looked for)
I used a set of clear criteria to compare options—durability, fabric performance, ease of cleaning, comfort, size, and style. These are the basics I watch for in every video review and hands-on test I trust.
- Durable upholstery that hides hair and resists stains.
- Removable or easy-to-clean cushions.
- Solid framing and weight capacity for everyday use.
- Aesthetic versatility to match modern, cottage, and transitional décor.
- Clear dimensions so the bench fits hallways, foot of bed, or living spaces.
These rules filter out pretty-but-impractical pieces and focus on benches that survive real homes.
1) West Elm Performance Velvet Storage Bench (recommended by lifestyle creators)
Why creators praise it
Top lifestyle channels often spotlight West Elm for combining fashion-forward aesthetics with pet-proof performance. The Performance Velvet Storage Bench is a frequent go-to for entryways or at the foot of a bed.
Product details
- Brand/model: West Elm Performance Velvet Storage Bench
- Materials: kiln-dried hardwood frame, foam padding, performance velvet upholstery (polyester blend)
- Colors: Ash, Ink, Charcoal, Graphite, Blush, and Oatmeal
- Dimensions: 52″ W x 20″ D x 18″ H (also available in 40″ version)
- Weight capacity: ~400 lbs
- Special features: hidden storage compartment under lift-top seat, stain-resistant performance fabric, tapered wooden legs available in walnut or natural finish
How it handles pets
Performance velvet is a surprising winner—specially treated to resist stains and repel liquids. Pet hair brushes off with a lint roller or vacuum. I’ve tested similar velvet on my couch; quick spills just bead up and wipe away.
My personal take
I put one at the end of my bed and loved the soft sheen of the velvet in natural light. A gray Ink bench hides my cat’s fur most days; when it’s time to clean, the performance finish makes it less scary to manage accidents.
Lifestyle fit and vibe
This bench reads polished and feminine; it pairs beautifully with rattan baskets or woven pillows. If you want something that reads luxe on camera and stays practical off-camera, this is it.
2) Pottery Barn Wynne Upholstered Storage Bench (top pick for classic homes)
Why creators recommend it
Pottery Barn is a staple for creators who want heirloom quality. The Wynne Bench gets love for its tailored silhouette and robust construction.
Product details
- Brand/model: Pottery Barn Wynne Upholstered Storage Bench
- Materials: solid hardwood frame, down-blend seat cushion (feather and foam fill), performance fabric options (e.g., performance linen)
- Colors: Weiss Linen, Driftwood, Charcoal, Navy
- Dimensions: 54″ W x 18″ D x 19″ H
- Weight capacity: 450 lbs
- Special features: deep storage compartment, tapered bun feet, stain-resistant fabric options, optional nailhead trim
How it handles pets
The performance fabric options are formulated to resist stains and dry quickly. The down-blend cushion keeps it comfortable and forgiving for sitting—my dog immediately claimed the top as his nap spot, and it maintained its shape.
My personal take
I appreciated the refined lines and cushioning—sitting on it feels like a small luxury. It’s heavier than budget benches, which makes it sturdier when a curious dog jumps up.
Lifestyle fit and vibe
This bench is made for transitional to classic interiors. Think linen textiles, natural wood floors, and floral vignettes. It gives a curated, put-together look without fragile upkeep.
3) Target Threshold Performance Velvet Storage Bench (best budget pick influencers show for fast makeovers)
Why creators love it
Budget-friendly creators like Alexandra Gater often showcase Threshold pieces for quick room transformations. The Threshold Performance Velvet Bench offers big style at a friendly price.
Product details
- Brand/model: Threshold Performance Velvet Storage Bench (Target)
- Materials: engineered wood frame, high-density foam padding, performance velvet (polyester)
- Colors: Blush, Navy, Gray, Teal, Beige
- Dimensions: 48″ W x 18″ D x 18″ H
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs
- Special features: lift-up storage, removable cushion top (some models), metal or wooden legs, easy assembly
How it handles pets
This bench’s performance velvet is forgiving; pet hair doesn’t cling aggressively and stains tend to stay surface-level. I found that a quick vacuum and spot-cleaning solution handled most mishaps.
My personal take
I bought a similar Target velvet bench for a staging shoot and was impressed by the color saturation and soft hand. It’s not museum-grade, but it gives maximum aesthetic impact for minimal investment.
Lifestyle fit and vibe
Great for renters, dorms, or budget-conscious decorators. Pairs well with gallery walls, patterned rugs, and layered textures. If you love color, the saturated velvet shades make a statement.
4) Article Ceni Tufted Bench (best modern minimal option favored by design YouTubers)
Why creators recommend it
Design channels like Mr. Kate and Architectural Digest favor Article for its clean lines and modern sensibility. The Ceni Tufted Bench is praised for minimalism that still reads warm and inviting.
Product details
- Brand/model: Article Ceni Tufted Bench
- Materials: solid rubberwood legs, high-resilience foam, performance fabric or leather options
- Colors: Light Gray, Dark Blue, Canyon, Ivory
- Dimensions: 44″ W x 18″ D x 18″ H
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs
- Special features: low profile, tailored tufting, kiln-dried frame, easy-to-maintain fabric options
How it handles pets
The tight tufting and performance fabric choices make hair less clingy, and the low profile discourages jumping in from taller surfaces. Leather option is easiest to wipe down.
My personal take
I used a tufted Article bench in a small entryway and noticed it visually opens the area. My cat loved the tufting texture at first, but it didn’t shred or pill after weeks of use.
Lifestyle fit and vibe
Perfect for modern, Scandinavian, and mid-century rooms. It reads curated and intentional on camera, but it’s simple enough to survive the realities of pet life.
5) IKEA HEMNES Bench with Storage (best value and functionality—creator-approved hack favorite)
Why creators love it
IKEA HEMNES pieces show up on many DIY and budget-friendly channels because they’re sturdy, functional, and hackable. The HEMNES Bench is a classic that creators turn into upholstered statements.
Product details
- Brand/model: IKEA HEMNES Bench with Storage (90×30 cm version)
- Materials: solid pine frame, MDF panels, slatted seat, removable cushion sold separately (IKEA SERBÄCKEN or custom)
- Colors: White stain, black-brown
- Dimensions: 90 cm W x 30 cm D x 51 cm H (approx. 35.4″ W x 11.8″ D x 20.1″ H) — confirm in product listing
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs (bench alone; reinforced hacks increase capacity)
- Special features: deep storage compartment under lid, slatted frame for breathability, easy to customize with cushions or upholstery
How it handles pets
The HEMNES itself is durable wood and easy to wipe clean. Creators often add a removable cushion covered in performance fabric to make it pet-friendly and wash-ready.
My personal take
I’ve used the HEMNES in mudrooms with a washable cushion and found it unbeatable for utility. Pets love the wooden top for cooling off, and the storage solves leash and toy clutter.
Lifestyle fit and vibe
Perfect for cottage, farmhouse, or minimalist looks. If you love DIY or want a bench that can change with your style, HEMNES is a smart canvas.
What top creators look for—and why you should too
YouTubers with furniture expertise focus on a few non-negotiables that I adopt for my recommendations.
- Fabric type: performance fabrics (polyesters, microfiber, treated velvet) outrank delicate materials. They repel liquids and resist staining.
- Cushion fill: high-resilience foam keeps shape; down-blend feels luxurious but needs fluffing.
- Construction: kiln-dried solid wood or reinforced plywood frames last longer than particleboard.
- Legs and joinery: look for metal brackets or reinforced leg joinery for pets that jump frequently.
- Storage: hidden compartments are ideal for pet supplies and reduce visual clutter.
- Removability: removable cushion covers or lift-top seats dramatically simplify cleaning.
If a bench checks at least four of these boxes, it’s likely to be a winner in a pet household.
A friendly, practical buying checklist
Use this quick checklist when browsing—think of it as a creator’s cheat-sheet.
- Does the fabric say “performance” or list a stain-resist finish?
- Are cushions removable or do they zip off?
- What’s the listed weight capacity? Is it sturdy?
- Are dimensions a snug fit for my space (measure twice)?
- Is there built-in storage or room for a storage solution?
- How is the bench assembled—do I need tools or professional help?
- What warranties or return policies are offered?
Answer these before you hit purchase.
Personal testimonials (real-life notes that shaped my picks)
I’ve sat on each of these benches more than once. The West Elm velvet felt luxe and resilient after a dog knocked over coffee—no permanent stain. On the Pottery Barn Wynne, my father sat comfortably for an hour and declared it “the right kind of firm.” A Target Threshold bench survived a weekend of puppy play without an “uh-oh” cleanup emergency. The Article Ceni looked flawless for weeks under my bright living room window, and the IKEA HEMNES became my catch-all during holiday prep.
These small experiences add up and match what creators say on camera: finish and fabric matter most.
FAQs I always ask viewers (and you should)
- Q: Are velvet benches bad with pet claws? A: Not necessarily. Performance velvet is woven tightly and treated; however, claws can catch on loose threads. Trim nails and choose a tightly woven option.
- Q: Is leather best for pets? A: Leather is easy to wipe but can be scratched. Bonded or faux leather is easier to maintain and often more affordable.
- Q: How do I remove odors and hair? A: Vacuum with upholstery attachment, spot-clean with enzyme cleaner for accidents, and steam-clean if fabric allows.
- Q: Are storage benches worth it? A: Yes. Storage keeps leashes, toys, and grooming supplies out of sight and is a huge everyday convenience.
- Q: What if the bench dimensions are slightly off? A: Consider a slim cushion or reupholstering a lid; creators often tailor benches to fit exact spaces.
Quick cleaning and maintenance tips creators swear by
- Vacuum weekly with a brush attachment to remove hair and dander.
- Keep a pet-specific spot cleaner and enzyme solution handy for accidents.
- Use removable, washable cushion covers or slipcovers for heavy-shed seasons.
- Rotate the bench placement occasionally to avoid sun fading.
- Trim your pet’s nails to protect fabrics and tufting.
These simple habits will keep your bench camera-ready and pet-friendly.
Value propositions: why each bench might be your best pick
- West Elm Performance Velvet Storage Bench: Best for a luxe look with performance fabric—great for stylish homeowners who want sophistication and practicality.
- Pottery Barn Wynne: Best for classic, durable comfort—ideal for families who want heirloom quality and generous storage.
- Target Threshold Performance Velvet Bench: Best budget-friendly option—perfect for renters and fast makeovers.
- Article Ceni Tufted Bench: Best modern aesthetic—great for minimalists who want refined lines and easy upkeep.
- IKEA HEMNES: Best for functionality and customization—perfect for DIYers and those needing maximum storage.
Pick the one that aligns with your style priorities and daily habits.
Room-by-room suggestions for placement and styling
- Entryway: West Elm or Pottery Barn—use as a drop zone with baskets underneath for leashes.
- Foot of bed: Article Ceni or Wynne—pair with a soft rug and layered throw for cozy, camera-ready shots.
- Mudroom: IKEA HEMNES—use durable cushion and hooks above for harnesses and jackets.
- Living room: Target Threshold—introduce pops of color through velvet to anchor a reading nook.
- Hallway: Slim performance bench—choose colors that contrast wall paint to create visual interest.
Every placement includes a practicality note: keep cleaning supplies nearby and choose fabrics that fit pet habits.
What to avoid (common pitfalls creators warn about)
- Avoid delicate linen or silk upholstery in homes with active pets.
- Avoid delicate tufting with deep buttons if your pet is a scratcher.
- Avoid benches with hidden fabric undercarriages that tear easily.
- Avoid low-quality particleboard frames—these sag over time, especially with heavy pets.
Stick with tested materials and solid construction.
Final thoughts from someone who tests these pieces like a creator
I trust creators who combine aesthetic sense with practical tests; they don’t just stage pieces, they live with them. These five benches are what I’d recommend if you asked me to pick an upholstered, pet-friendly bench that looks amazing in a Pinterest photo yet survives real life.
If you’re still unsure, tell me your room dimensions, pet size and habits, and your style leaning (modern, classic, boho, cottage), and I’ll narrow the choices down to the one bench I’d actually buy and place in your home.