How to Clean Upholstery: Say Goodbye to Stains and Hello to Freshness!

Welcome to the world of upholstery cleaning, where spills are just an opportunity for a deep clean, and keeping your furniture looking fabulous is a badge of honor! We know how much love (and sometimes, how much pizza) your couches and chairs can handle, so let’s dive into the art of turning those “oops” moments into ta-da transformations.

Introduction to Upholstery Cleaning

Let's set the scene: You’re enjoying a movie night, and suddenly, your sofa is sporting a new shade of red wine or chocolate ice cream. Fear not, because we've got the ultimate guide to help you tackle those tough stains and keep your furniture looking like it belongs in a showroom.

Whether you're tackling stubborn pet stains or sprucing up a vintage find from an estate sale, here's how to make your upholstery look and smell brand new.

Related Topics:

• Cleaning Tips, Hacks, and Products
• Furniture & Accessories
• How-To Guides
• Sofas

Over time, crumbs, spills, pet hair, dirt, and oils from hands and feet can make upholstered furniture look dirty. Follow these steps to clean furniture made from various fabrics and materials.

1) Vacuum the Furniture

Use a hand vacuum or the crevice attachment on your vacuum to remove debris and dirt from the sofa's surface. Be sure to clean the crevices where pet hair, food crumbs, and dirt accumulate. If the cushions are detachable, remove and vacuum both sides. Be careful when using attachments as stiff brissels may cause some fabrics to pill. 

2) Clean the Wood or Metal Areas

Wipe down the sofa feet and other non-fabric parts with a solution of warm water and liquid dish soap. If needed, use stronger cleaners, such as DIY wood cleaning and polishing options. Always finish with a microfiber cloth to prevent soap residue.

3) Determine the Type of Fabric

Locate the tag on the couch and read the instructions for cleaning that specific type of upholstery. Can't find the tag? Contact the manufacturer of the sofa, or reach out to a local upholstery shop to determine the type of material.  

Understanding Upholstery Codes: The Secret Language of Cleaning

When you first glance at your furniture tags, the letters you see might seem like a cryptic puzzle. But fear not! These codes are actually straightforward guidelines designed to ensure you clean your upholstery safely and effectively. Let’s break down these codes and uncover the cleaning secrets they hold.

• Code W: Water-friendly fabrics that love a good spa day.
• Code S: Solvents only, please—think of it as the dry martini of cleaning.
• Code W/S or S/W: A flexible fabric that enjoys both water and solvents.
• Code X: Vacuum-only territory. No liquids, just love!

Now let's take a deeper dive into what these codes mean to  clean upholstery fabric & furniture 

Code W: Water-friendly Fabrics

Upholstery labeled with a "W" means it can be cleaned with water-based solutions. This is your green light for using mild detergents or plain water for spot cleaning. Here are a few tips:

• Regular maintenance: For general upkeep, a light weekly wipe-down with a damp cloth can help prevent dust and dirt from settling deeply into the fabric.
• Deep cleaning: For more thorough cleaning, a water-based upholstery shampoo can be used. Apply it sparingly with a soft brush or sponge, work it gently into the fabric, and then blot dry with a clean, absorbent towel.
• Spot cleaning: If you're dealing with a fresh spill, blot the area with lukewarm water and a mild soap solution, then pat dry.

Code S: Solvent-based Cleaners Only

Fabrics with an "S" code require a little more care, as they can only be cleaned with solvent-based cleaners. This doesn’t mean harsh chemicals, but rather specific products designed to clean without water. Here's how to approach these:

• Choosing the right solvent: Look for cleaning solvents intended for upholstery fabric, and avoid any products with harsh chemicals that could damage the fabric.
• Application: Apply the solvent to a clean cloth and gently dab at stains or soiled areas. Avoid applying it directly to the upholstery to prevent oversaturation.
• Ventilation is key: Always ensure the room is well-ventilated when using solvents to avoid inhaling fumes.

Code W/S: Flexible Cleaning Options

The "W/S" or "S/W" code offers the best of both worlds. These fabrics can be cleaned with either water-based or solvent-based products, providing flexibility based on the type of stain or your personal preference.

• Testing first: Since both options are viable, performing a spot test in an inconspicuous area is crucial to determine which cleaner works better for the specific stain or overall fabric care.
• Combination cleaning: For some stains, a combination of water and solvent cleaners might be effective. Start with the milder water-based cleaner and if the stain persists, switch to a solvent.

Code X: Vacuum-only Maintenance

Lastly, "X" coded fabrics are the most delicate, requiring a vacuum-only approach. No water, no solvents—just gentle care.

• Regular vacuuming: Use a soft brush attachment to gently remove dust and loose dirt. Regular vacuuming prevents dirt from embedding deeper into the fabric, which can cause discoloration and wear over time.
• Dealing with spills: For spills, blot immediately with a dry, clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Since liquids and cleaners are off-limits, consider consulting a professional for serious stains to avoid damage.

By understanding these upholstery cleaning codes, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your furniture. Each code offers a tailored approach that respects the fabric’s unique characteristics, ensuring that your furniture not only looks great but stays in top condition for years to come.

Regular Cleaning: Keeping the Dust Bunnies at Bay

Before stains can make their mark, regular cleaning is your first line of defense. Whip out that vacuum and show those dust mites who’s boss. Monthly vacuum sessions and occasional dry brushing will not only keep allergies in check but also extend the life of your beloved furnishings.

The Art of Spot Cleaning: Quick Fixes for Fresh Spills

Got a fresh spill? Time is of the essence! Here’s how to handle it with aplomb:

1. Blot, don’t rub: Grab a microfiber cloth and dab gently.
2. Choose your cleaner wisely: Refer back to those handy upholstery codes.
3. Test first: Always do a spot test on a hidden area to avoid a cleaning catastrophe.
4. Air-dry: Let nature do the drying for optimal freshness.

Deep Cleaning: The Seasonal Refresh

Twice a year, it’s time for a deep clean. This isn’t just a quick vacuum; it’s the full spa treatment for your furniture. Consider using a steam cleaner to penetrate deep into the fibers and rejuvenate every inch of your upholstery. 

Removing Water Stains from Your Sofa: Expert Tips from Revolution Performance Fabrics

Dealing with water stains on your favorite couch or sofa can be frustrating, especially if it’s upholstered with light-colored fabric. In a recent blog post, we shared experience and a simple, effective solution for tackling these stubborn stains on their white sofa upholstered with Revolution Fabric. Using distilled white vinegar and water, we demonstrate a method that removes the minerals responsible for the stain, ensuring the sofa remains as pristine as ever.

The technique involves first identifying the stain to confirm it's from water and then applying distilled white vinegar directly to the affected area. After letting it sit, the stain is blotted out with distilled water, free of the minerals typically found in tap water. This process may need to be repeated for older or more stubborn stains but is generally very effective after one or two applications.

For a step-by-step guide and more of our pro tips on maintaining your upholstery, check out the full article on our blog. Whether you're dealing with a fresh spill or an old watermark, these insights can help keep your furniture looking its best. Read the full story here and see how easy it can be to bring your sofa back to life!

Don't feel like reading the blog? Check out the how-to video HERE

How to Remove Tough Stains: Your Secret Weapons

Stains be warned: We’re armed and ready with the best tools and techniques to banish you from our beautiful upholstery.

• For organic stains: Baking soda and vinegar are your go-to's for eco-friendly magic.
• For oil-based stains: Solvents will dissolve your woes away.
• For stubborn marks: A mixture of gentle laundry detergent and warm water can work wonders.

Bleach Cleanable Upholstery: Revolutionize Your Furniture

Enter the game-changer: Bleach cleanable upholstery by Revolution Performance Fabrics. Not only do these fabrics offer unmatched durability and style, but they also allow you to clean how you want without a worry. Revolution fabrics can be cleaned with water, solvent-based cleaners and even our specially formulated Revolution Fabric Cleaner with Bleach! Check out this YouTube Video to see the magic in action!

Specialty Cleaning: Tips for Unique Fabrics

Each fabric is a unique snowflake, and some need a little extra TLC. Here’s how to cater to their specific needs:

• Velvet: This luxe fabric hates water. Vacuum regularly and call in the pros for anything more.
• Leather: Regular conditioning keeps it supple. For stains, a mild soap solution does the trick.
• Synthetics: Tough and versatile, these can handle more vigorous cleaning methods.

Preventing Future Stains: The Proactive Approach

The best stain is the one that never happens. Use furniture covers or slip covers and practice the art of eating over the table, not the couch! Just kidding! You can always eat on a sofa upholstered with Revolution Fabric

DIY Upholstery Cleaners: Mix Up Your Own Magic

Feeling crafty? Whip up your own cleaners with simple ingredients from your pantry. Here’s a quick recipe for a DIY fabric cleaner:

• 1 cup warm water
• ¼ cup vinegar
• A squirt of dish soap Mix, spray, scrub, and enjoy the freshness!

How to Use Your DIY Fabric Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of warm water
• ¼ cup of vinegar
• A squirt of dish soap

Tools Needed:

• Spray bottle
• Soft bristle brush or sponge
• Clean, dry cloth or microfiber towel

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Solution:
   • Start by warming up one cup of water—just warm to the touch, not hot.
   • In a bowl, combine the warm water, ¼ cup of vinegar, and a squirt of dish soap. Stir gently to mix the ingredients thoroughly without creating too much foam.
2. Fill the Spray Bottle:
   • Carefully pour the mixed solution into a clean spray bottle. This will make the application easier and more controlled
3. Test the Cleaner:
   • Before you start cleaning your upholstery, it's essential to perform a spot test. Spray a small amount of the solution on an inconspicuous part of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
4. Apply the Cleaner:
   • Spray the cleaner lightly onto the fabric areas that need cleaning. Avoid soaking the material; a light mist is sufficient.
   • Let the solution sit for a few minutes to break down oils and dirt, but do not let it dry completely.
5. Scrub Gently:
   • Using a soft bristle brush or sponge, gently scrub the treated areas in a circular motion. This helps lift the dirt from the fabric fibers without damaging them.
6. Wipe and Dry:
   • After scrubbing, take a clean, dry cloth or microfiber towel and blot the area to absorb the cleaning solution along with the lifted dirt.
   • Allow the fabric to air dry completely. You can turn on a fan or open windows to speed up the drying process.
7. Repeat if Necessary:
   • For tougher stains or larger areas, you may need to repeat the application and scrubbing process until the fabric is thoroughly clean.
8. Enjoy the Clean and Fresh Upholstery:
   • Once dry, you’ll notice your upholstery not only looks cleaner but also smells fresher, thanks to the natural deodorizing power of vinegar.

This DIY fabric cleaner is a simple, effective, and eco-friendly way to keep your upholstered furniture looking its best. Plus, it’s safe for most types of fabrics and much cheaper than commercial cleaners.

Closing Thoughts: Your Clean Furniture Awaits!

Upholstery cleaning is an art and a science—it’s about understanding the materials, reacting promptly to accidents, and incorporating regular maintenance into your life. With these tips, your furniture won’t just survive; it will thrive.  Remember, every spill is just a story in the making—so next time you drop that pizza, just laugh it off, clean it up, and know that you’ve got the skills to handle it.

We Want to Hear From You!

Got a legendary cleaning story or a tip to share? How about the mystery of what fabric your sofa is wearing? Drop us a comment below—we love hearing your tales and tips! 

RELATED CONTENT: How to calculate the amount of fabric you need for a project

Links and Resources

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Now, go forth and clean with confidence (and maybe a little bit of flair)!