I don't like the idea of putting chemicals on our furnishings. I would research exactly what it is, whether there are VOCs, rubs off gradually, etc. There are topical flame retardants too and I'm just wary of all this stuff unless it's absolutely necessary.

If you've already had good experience with that type of fabric, I'd forgo. Can you get a sample of that particular fabric in the same color you'll purchase and try various stains and removal on it?

I can't comment on microfiber or whether or not to do it, but here's my 2 cents...

I won't pay for the extras. I feel part of MY OWN responsibility of buying furniture or investment pieces is knowing and anticipating how the item will be used & abused.

If my 5 yr old was notorious for drawing on everything with sharpie markers and fingerpaints...or my cat peed & puked on everything, I'd make decisions based on that knowledge.

Of course crazy accidents happen and they're not forseeable. There's a level of risk I'm willing to take when it comes to warranties & extras.

Up to you, but I tend to not go for warranties and such unless I know there is an inevitable and/or predictable risk involved.
Gayle

gayle you crack me up with your bluntness.

spring- you bring up an interesting point. It was one thing to have a few chair seats done, but maybe another to have several large pieces done. Hmmmm

You don't need it for micro fiber. I have had one sofa for about 5 years and still looks good. The one that gets used the most is about 1 1/2 years old and looks great.

If we're talking about white microfiber, I might say maybe. Anything else, I doubt it's needed. A damp washcloth gets most things off microfiber. Or some Spot Shot, or the carpet spot shampooer, or a good flick. :)

Here's another angle to consider. DH selected some leather home theater seating. He's a messy eater, and I knew he'd eat/drink on that furniture, and it wasn't the greatest quality of leather. So he opted to have it treated. His seat now shows wear. Mine still looks pristine...because I'm allergic to something in the treatment! If I sit on it for longer than a few minutes, I break out in a scaly rash anywhere my skin is in contact with the leather. So if I sit there, I have to drape a blanket over first anyway... may as well have gotten upholstery. :) I haven't sat in that furniture for at least 6 years now... and we will never buy another round of furniture protectant again!