10 Best Practices for Upholstery Cleaning

Professional cleaning of the upholstery on a sofa

Cleaning upholstery effectively requires care to avoid damage while removing dirt, stains, and odors. No one wants to sit on stained, dirty furniture. The professionals at Clean Choice Rug Cleaning help to welcome people to your space with clean, odor-free furniture. Whether you need to remove a stain from your headboard or get food stains off of your couch, each textile type requires specific care, which means one upholstery cleaner might not work for every piece in your home. Keep reading as we highlight ten best practices for cleaning your upholstery.

1. Check the Manufacturer’s Label

Look for the cleaning code on the furniture tag:

W: Use water-based cleaners.
S: Use solvent-based cleaners (dry cleaning only).
WS: Use water- or solvent-based cleaners.
X: Vacuum only; professional cleaning recommended.

2. Vacuum Regularly

Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt, and debris.
Pay attention to seams, crevices, and under cushions.
A crevice tool can make all the difference in those tricky spots.

3. Address Spills Immediately

Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot spills with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to prevent them from soaking into the fabric.
Use Mild Cleaners: Start with a gentle cleaning solution of water and dish soap for water-safe fabrics.

4. Test Cleaners First

Test any cleaning solution on a hidden area to ensure it doesn’t discolor or damage the fabric.

5. Target Stains

General Stains: Use a water-based upholstery cleaner or a mix of dish soap and warm water.
Grease/Oil Stains: Apply a small amount of baking soda to absorb the oil before vacuuming it off.
Ink Stains: Dab with isopropyl alcohol on a white cloth (test first).
Pet Stains/Odors: Use enzyme-based cleaners designed for upholstery.

6. Use the Right Tools

Soft-Bristle Brush: Loosen dirt and debris before vacuuming.
Steam Cleaner: For deep cleaning on water-safe upholstery.
Microfiber Cloths: Great for gentle scrubbing and absorbing moisture.

7. Avoid Over-Saturating

Excess water or cleaning solution can seep into the cushions and cause mold or mildew. Always wring out cleaning cloths and use minimal liquid.

8. Dry Thoroughly

Use fans or open windows to speed up drying. Never sit on damp upholstery, as it may stretch or lose shape.

9. Protect the Upholstery

Apply fabric protectors (e.g., Scotchgard) after cleaning to resist future stains.
Use washable slipcovers for high-traffic furniture.

10. Schedule Professional Cleaning

For delicate, antique, or heavily soiled furniture, hire a professional upholstery cleaner.

Receive Your Free Estimate Today

Make sure you offer an inviting space with fresh, sanitized upholstery. Contact Clean Choice Cleaning in Elkridge today at (410) 978-6050 for a free estimate on professional upholstery cleaning in the greater Baltimore and Annapolis areas.

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