Upholstery Fabric Care & Cleaning Tips
Proper care can help upholstered furniture maintain its appearance and last longer. Regular vacuuming, careful spot cleaning and following the manufacturer’s cleaning code are some of the most important steps you can take to reduce premature wear, soil buildup and avoidable staining.
These fabric care tips are intended as general guidance for upholstered furniture. Always check the furniture manufacturer’s care label before applying any cleaning product or method.
Weekly Upholstery Care
Vacuum upholstered furniture regularly using an upholstery attachment to help remove dust, crumbs, hair and surface soil before they become embedded in the fabric.
- Vacuum seat cushions, backs, arms and crevices
- Rotate and turn removable cushions when appropriate to promote more even wear
- Keep upholstered furniture away from prolonged direct sunlight when possible to help reduce fading
- Avoid placing newspapers, wet materials, dyes, paints, inks, nail polish or other staining substances directly on upholstery
- Address spills promptly before they have time to spread or set
Periodic professional cleaning may also help remove accumulated body oils, soil and residue that ordinary household maintenance does not fully address.
Before Spot Cleaning Upholstery
Before using any cleaner, locate the furniture’s fabric cleaning code. The code indicates which type of cleaning method the manufacturer recommends for that upholstery.
Always test any cleaning product in a small, inconspicuous area first. Avoid saturating the fabric, rubbing aggressively or using a cleaning method that does not match the manufacturer’s care code.
Understanding Upholstery Cleaning Codes
Code W
W generally means the fabric may be cleaned with a water-based upholstery cleaning product according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use a mild product intended for upholstery, apply sparingly and avoid over-wetting the fabric.
Code S
S generally means the fabric should be cleaned with a water-free solvent-based upholstery cleaner.
Do not automatically use water on an S-coded fabric. Follow the manufacturer’s label and product directions carefully.
Code W/S or S/W
W/S or S/W generally indicates that either an appropriate water-based product or a suitable solvent-based upholstery cleaner may be used, depending on the fabric and stain.
When in doubt, professional cleaning is the safer option.
Code X
X generally means the upholstery should be cleaned only by vacuuming or light brushing unless the manufacturer specifically recommends another method.
Do not apply household water-based or solvent-based cleaners to X-coded fabric unless directed by the manufacturer or a qualified upholstery professional.
Tips for Handling Spills & Stains
- Blot spills gently with a clean, absorbent cloth instead of rubbing
- Work from the outside of the stained area toward the center when appropriate
- Avoid excessive moisture
- Do not mix cleaning chemicals
- Do not use bleach unless specifically approved for the fabric
- Allow the area to dry fully before evaluating the result
Some stains, delicate fabrics, color-transfer problems and older upholstery are best evaluated by a professional before cleaning is attempted.
When to Request Professional Upholstery Service
Professional furniture or upholstery service may be appropriate when the furniture has:
- Persistent stains or discoloration
- Damaged seams or stitching
- Torn or worn fabric
- Flattened or damaged cushions
- Foam, webbing or spring problems
- Structural damage beneath the upholstery
- Leather or vinyl damage requiring specialized repair
For broader upholstery, leather, fabric and furniture repair services, visit All Furniture Services® upholstery information.
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