Clean Upholstered Furniture: 5 Spotless Secrets

Introduction: Why Clean Furniture is a Healthier Choice

Your furniture collects dust, allergens, and bacteria that can affect your home’s air quality and your family’s health. Regular cleaning removes these hidden contaminants and extends your furniture’s life by preventing dirt from breaking down the fibers.

Quick Steps to Clean Upholstered Furniture:

1. Check the cleaning code on the tag (W, S, WS, or X).
2. Vacuum thoroughly with an upholstery attachment.
3. Blot spills immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
4. Use the right cleaner for your fabric type.
5. Deep clean annually to remove embedded grime.

This guide will walk you through the process, from simple maintenance to knowing when to call in the pros.

Your Complete DIY Guide to Clean Upholstered Furniture

Keeping your furniture clean saves money and extends its life. Here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it yourself.

Step 1: Decode Your Furniture’s Tag & Gather Supplies

First, check the manufacturer’s tag for a cleaning code. Using the wrong product can cause permanent damage.

Upholstery Cleaning Codes:

Always spot test any cleaner on a hidden area first to check for discoloration.

Essential Tools and Supplies:

• Vacuum with upholstery and crevice attachments
• Soft-bristled brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Spray bottle
• Small bowl
• Distilled water
• Clear, mild dish soap
• Baking soda
• White vinegar

Step 2: Routine Maintenance and Vacuuming

Regular cleaning is key to preventing dirt buildup. Vacuum weekly, including under cushions and in crevices, and perform a deep clean annually. After vacuuming, remove, fluff, and rotate cushions to ensure even wear.

• More info about maintaining upholstery over the summer

Step 3: Spot Treatment for Common Stains

Act fast when spills happen. Always blot stains with a clean, white cloth—never rub, as this can push the stain deeper.

For Water-Based Stains (Coffee, Juice) on ‘W’ or ‘WS’ Fabrics:
Apply the suds from a mild soap and water solution with a cloth. Blot with a damp cloth to rinse, then blot dry.

For Oil-Based Stains (Grease, Makeup) on ‘S’ or ‘WS’ Fabrics:
First, sprinkle baking soda on the stain to absorb oil, let it sit, then vacuum. For ‘S’ fabrics, blot with a dry-cleaning solvent. For ‘WS’ fabrics, you can also use the water-based method if needed.

Learn some simple home remedies for cleaning upholstery.

Step 4: The Process for Deep Cleaning Upholstered Furniture

For a deeper clean on ‘W’ or ‘WS’ fabrics, follow these steps:

1. Vacuum Thoroughly: Remove all loose dirt and debris.
2. Pre-Treat Stains: Apply your chosen spot cleaner to any stubborn stains.
3. Clean in Sections: Wipe down the furniture with a cloth dampened in a mild soap and water solution—do not oversaturate.
4. Rinse Lightly: Mist the cleaned area with plain water and immediately blot with a dry cloth to remove soap residue.
5. Dry Completely: Ensure the furniture dries completely to prevent mildew, using fans to speed up the process.

Get ready for guests with a deep upholstery clean.

Step 5: How to Clean Upholstered Furniture with Special Materials & Odors

Leather Furniture:

• Wipe with a 50/50 water and white vinegar solution, rinse with a damp cloth, and dry. Apply a leather conditioner every 6 months to prevent cracking.
• Tips for cleaning a white leather chair

Microfiber Furniture:

• Use a soap and water solution for ‘W’ code or rubbing alcohol for ‘S’ code. Spray lightly, blot, and brush the fibers once dry to restore texture.

Removing Odors:

• To deodorize, sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum. Alternatively, lightly mist with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution; the smell will fade as it dries.

Common Mistakes & When to Call the Professionals

DIY cleaning is great for maintenance, but some jobs are best left to the experts. Knowing the difference can save your furniture from irreversible damage.

Top Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Too Much Water: Over-saturating can cause water stains, mildew, and padding damage. Use minimal moisture.
• Ignoring the Cleaning Code: Using the wrong cleaner can cause discoloration or shrinkage.
• Scrubbing Stains: Rubbing spreads stains and damages fibers. Always blot gently.
• Skipping the Spot Test: Always test new cleaners on a hidden area first.
• Improper Drying: Dampness leads to mold. Ensure furniture dries completely, using fans to help.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY methods are effective for light cleaning, it’s time to call a professional for:

• ‘X’ Coded Fabrics: These require professional dry cleaning.
• Delicate or Antique Furniture: Entrust valuable pieces to experts to prevent damage.
• Stubborn, Set-In Stains: Pros have tools to remove tough stains safely.
• Deep Allergen Removal: For severe allergies or pets, a professional clean is most effective for removing dander and dust mites. Why Should I Get My Upholstery Cleaned?
• Large or Multiple Pieces: Hire a service to save time and ensure quality on big jobs.

Our IICRC-certified technicians at Royal Carpet Cleaning use hot water extraction to deep clean furniture, removing up to 96.5% of allergens. This process revitalizes upholstery and improves indoor air quality. Serving Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and surrounding areas, we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. For a deeper clean, trust the experts to restore your furniture’s beauty.

Learn about the standards set by the IICRC for professional cleaners.

Explore our professional upholstery cleaning services in Albuquerque