The recovery properties of 100% cotton sofa fabric, while naturally limited compared to highly elastic materials, can be improved to some extent by following these tips:

Prefer High-Quality Cotton Fabric: Start with high-quality cotton fabric. The quality of the fabric can affect its recovery properties. Look for fabrics with a tight weave and a good thread count, as these tend to have better recovery.

Choose a Tighter Weave: Cotton fabrics with a tighter weave tend to have better recovery. Consider selecting a fabric with a denser weave for your sofa upholstery.

Use Fabric Blends: If you require enhanced recovery properties, consider using fabric blends that combine cotton with more elastic fibers such as spandex or elastane. These blends offer improved stretch and recovery while retaining the comfort of cotton.

Apply Fabric Finishes: Some fabric finishes, such as fabric sizing or treatments, can enhance the recovery properties of cotton. Check with the fabric manufacturer or supplier for options that can improve fabric resilience.

Properly Support Cushions: Ensure that your sofa cushions are adequately supported with high-quality foam or padding. Proper cushion support can help maintain the shape and improve the recovery of the fabric.

Regularly Fluff and Rotate Cushions: To prevent excessive wear and sagging, regularly fluff and rotate your sofa cushions. This helps distribute pressure evenly and promotes better recovery.

Limit Heavy Use: Limit heavy or prolonged use of your sofa, especially by sitting in the same spot continuously. This can help reduce the strain on the fabric and improve its longevity and recovery.

Avoid Overloading the Sofa: Avoid placing heavy or excessive items on the sofa for extended periods. Overloading can cause the fabric to stretch and lose its shape.

Professional Upholstery Techniques: If you are reupholstering your sofa, consult with a professional upholsterer. They can use proper techniques and materials to ensure that the fabric maintains its shape and recovery properties.

Regular Maintenance: Proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and protection from direct sunlight, can help preserve the fabric's recovery properties over time.

While these tips can improve the recovery properties of 100% cotton sofa fabric, cotton is inherently less elastic than synthetic or blended materials like spandex or elastane. If you require significant stretch and recovery, you may want to consider using fabric blends that incorporate elastic fibers or exploring alternative upholstery materials that better meet your specific needs.