Most sofa fabrics stay looking good with a few simple habits: vacuum often, blot spills fast and keep the sofa out of long direct sun. This guide covers the routine, then the specific steps for each fabric. Leather is different, so it has its own leather care guide. Still choosing? See how to choose sofa upholstery.
Check the cleaning code first
Many fabrics carry a cleaning code on the tag, usually under a seat cushion. It tells you which cleaners are safe.
- W: water-based cleaners only.
- S: solvent-based, water-free cleaners only.
- WS: either type.
- X: vacuum or brush only. No liquid cleaners.
If there is no tag, test any cleaner on a hidden spot, such as the back or underside, and let it dry before you go further.
The routine that works on any fabric
- Vacuum weekly. Use a soft brush attachment and get into the seams and under the cushions.
- Blot spills right away. Press a clean, dry cloth on the spot and lift. Do not rub, because rubbing pushes the spill deeper and roughens the fibers.
- Rotate loose cushions. Flip and swap them so wear spreads evenly.
- Limit direct sun. Long exposure fades color. Use curtains or move the sofa out of the strongest light.
Cleaning by fabric
| Fabric | Everyday care | For spills and marks | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Velvet | Brush or vacuum with the pile | Blot; lightly damp cloth with mild soap if the code allows water | Rubbing, which can flatten the pile |
| Boucle | Slow vacuum with a soft brush attachment | Blot spills | Pulling loops or scrubbing |
| Chenille | Vacuum regularly | Mild cleaner on a damp cloth, working from the edge inward | Soaking the fabric |
| Linen and linen-look | Vacuum weekly | Blot quickly, then dab with a lightly damp cloth | Over-wetting, which can leave water rings |
| Microfiber | Vacuum | Blot; a water-free cleaner often works, check the code | Water if the code says S or X |
| Cotton and wool blends | Vacuum | Mild detergent solution on a soft cloth if the code allows | Heat and rough scrubbing on wool |
Velvet
Brush or vacuum gently in the direction of the pile. Blot spills and avoid rubbing, which can flatten the pile. For a mark, use a lightly damp cloth with a drop of mild soap if the code allows water, and let it air dry. A soft brush can lift the pile once it is dry.
Boucle
Use a soft brush attachment and go slowly so the loops are not pulled. Blot spills. If a loop snags, do not pull it. Trim it flush with small scissors. Avoid scrubbing, which can fuzz or flatten the texture.
Chenille
Vacuum regularly and blot spills right away. For a stain, follow the cleaning code and use a mild cleaner on a damp cloth, working from the edge of the stain inward. Let it dry fully before sitting on it.
Linen and linen-look
Vacuum weekly and treat spills quickly, since light shades show marks sooner. Blot, then dab with a cloth dampened with mild soap and water if the code allows it. Dry with a clean cloth and let it air dry to avoid water rings.
Microfiber
Vacuum and blot spills. Microfiber often does well with a water-free cleaner, but check the code first, because some finishes react to water.
Cotton and wool blends
Vacuum, blot and treat stains with a mild detergent solution on a soft brush or cloth, if the code allows water. Wool is best cleaned gently and dried flat and away from heat.
A basic spot-cleaning method
- Blot up as much of the spill as you can.
- Check the cleaning code.
- Dampen a clean white cloth with the right cleaner. It should not be soaked.
- Dab from the outside of the stain toward the center.
- Blot with a dry cloth, then let the spot air dry.
Use a white cloth so no dye transfers to the fabric.
When to call a professional
Set-in stains, ink, grease and large spills are best left to a professional upholstery cleaner. Guessing with the wrong product can set a stain permanently.
Questions about your sofa?
If you are unsure how to clean a specific piece, we are happy to help. Call (628) 277-8959 any day, 8am to 6pm PST.