Well I too have heard it's very easy to clean from girls on other decor boards. If you want to spend less $$ on a bit smaller piece try the link below.

Here is a link that might be useful: Similar JCP storage bench

There are different types of microfiber. Some can be cleaned with water, some with only certain cleaners. We unfortunately have the stuff that water only leaves water spots on and makes it look worse.

There are other solutions, too if you are concerned with keeping that bench clean. You can find wooden storage benches. Some for the same or less and others more than what the two solutions shown are for.

If you have the wall space for it, I think you would be much better off with the kind of storage thing that goes up the wall and has hooks, plus has a bench/cubbies. In a few years, your son will be toting home backpacks and things, and it will be great to have one place for his jacket, backpack, etc.

Here is a link that might be useful: Maybe something like this

You know, this depends. Do you want to see all the dirt and clean frequently? Or do you have plenty to do as is and prefer that at least some of the dirt doesn't show? I think those are always good questions to ask ourselves.

bestyears--> those hall tree storage benches make a lot of sense, but I have my doubts about how it would look in our small home. The spot I'm looking to fill is almost directly across from the font door and can be seen easily from the living room. I need something that is not bulky or imposing because it's a small wall (four feet wide) next to a built-in cabinet that houses an aquarium and supplies. Also we have 8 foot ceilings. I don't know that I like the idea of walking in and seeing people's coats, backpacks, purses or whatever hanging on it. I would see it because the front door/entry space is in the middle of the house and we walk through there all the time to go from bedrooms/bathrooms to common spaces, etc.

I really want something that looks light yet substantial, but not imposing, and can store the living room blankets. Although I like the idea of a wooden bench for practical reasons, I'd rather provide something upholstered. What about this bench, in microfiber red? I like red b/c that's my living room accent color so it would tie in well.

Here is a link that might be useful: red bench

I forgot to add that I wouldn't want to see dirt or constantly clean. I know I don't own any white pants b/c every little thing seems to show up on them. These are the reasons I was concerned about ivory to begin with, but brown just seems too boring.

Can anyone suggest other places I could look for benches? I prefer made in USA so that's part of the appeal of the JCP bench.

melle, I really like the clean lines of the jcpenney bench. I really like some of the fabrics also-- too bad there isn't a red pattern that would work for you.

I currently have microfiber but even in a light color it has a "heavy" feel to me. I much prefer the linen type material.. especially in a bench.

Is the storage space big enough for your blankets?

I've had microfiber (we have a nearly 4 yr old and a 1 yr old). Got rid of it because it showed every spot. My understanding is that if you see the spot and get it cleaned RIGHT AWAY with only blotting, then it won't show. But, if you're like me, and you are still constantly reminding your children not to wipe their dirty paws on their _____ (insert: shirt, sleeve, pants, chair, sofa, table, dolly, mommy...) then you are likely to discover dirt after it's been sitting there awhile.

What about a low wooden storage bench? Have you looked at Pottery Barn or Ballard? They often have stuff of that sort. Ballard also has cushions that can fit on their benches. -- At least with a cusion, you can throw the slipcovers in the wash.

Hi funkyart:

I have a microfiber couch/chair/ottoman in the living room and I love the material. I like solid red just fine, though that leopard print was pretty cool too.

I think the storage would be sufficient, I've been wanting to get better blankets that are warm yet lightweight. (What we have now is one of those huge, heavy "mink" blankets and a down throw. I never use the "mink"). We have other storage for less frequently used blankets, I just need something convenient for a couple of living room blankets.

The main reason for the bench is to have a place to sit and take off/put on shoes. We have a no shoes policy but people have to walk into the living room to sit down and take off shoes OR sit on the floor--I usually wouldn't ask a guest to do that! Or they lean against the wall to take off their shoes...right now it's just very awkward. I've looked on Craigslist for a few months but haven't seen anything that would work.

sarschlos_remodeler--> Ohhh...I forgot about not being able to unzip the cover and wash it! I've had to launder the couch and chair covers several times, but can't do anything for the ottoman. My DS drew all over the top of the ottoman with ball point ink pen and it cleaned off okay but the fabric is taupe so hides things a little better.

Thanks for the suggestions.