Upholstered furniture adds comfort, style, and warmth to our homes, but stains are an inevitable reality of daily life. Whether it’s a coffee spill on your favorite sofa, pet accidents on your armchair, or mystery marks on your dining chairs, knowing how to properly remove stains without damaging your furniture’s fabric is essential for maintaining its beauty and longevity.
This comprehensive guide provides detailed, fabric-specific stain removal techniques that work, explaining the science behind different cleaning methods and helping you tackle everything from everyday spills to stubborn, set-in stains. Understanding your upholstery fabric type and using the right cleaning approach can mean the difference between restoring your furniture to its original condition and causing permanent damage.
Understanding Upholstery Fabric Types and Cleaning Codes
Before attempting to remove any stain, you must identify your furniture’s fabric type and cleaning code. This crucial first step prevents damage and ensures you use the safest, most effective cleaning method.
Locating Your Cleaning Code: Most upholstered furniture has a tag (usually underneath cushions or on the furniture’s underside) with a cleaning code. This single letter tells you what cleaning solutions are safe to use.
W – Water-Based Cleaning: Fabrics marked with “W” can be cleaned with water-based solutions. These are typically durable, tightly-woven fabrics that can withstand moisture without watermarks or shrinkage.
S – Solvent-Based Cleaning Only: The “S” code indicates that only dry-cleaning solvents should be used. Water can cause permanent watermarks, shrinkage, or fabric distortion on these materials. Never use water-based cleaners on S-coded fabrics.
SW or W/S – Both Methods Safe: This versatile code means you can use either water-based or solvent-based cleaners. When both options are available, water-based solutions are generally preferred as they’re less toxic and more environmentally friendly.
X – Vacuum or Brush Only: This code indicates the fabric should only be cleaned by vacuuming or light brushing. No liquid cleaners of any kind should be used. Professional cleaning is typically required for serious stains on X-coded fabrics.
Important Note: If you cannot find a cleaning code tag, test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of the furniture first. The back of cushions, underneath the furniture, or inside seams are ideal testing spots. Wait 24 hours to ensure no discoloration, watermarks, or fabric damage occurs before proceeding with stain removal.
Essential Supplies for Upholstery Stain Removal
Having the right tools and cleaning solutions on hand allows you to act quickly when spills occur, preventing stains from setting in:
Basic Supplies Every Household Needs:
- Clean white cloths or paper towels (avoid colored cloths that might transfer dye)
- Spray bottles for mixing cleaning solutions
- Soft-bristled brushes (old toothbrushes work well for spot cleaning)
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Distilled water (prevents mineral deposits from tap water)
- Mild dish soap (Dawn or similar clear, unscented varieties)
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol 70% or higher)
- Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
Optional, But Helpful:
- Commercial upholstery cleaner appropriate for your fabric type
- Enzyme-based pet stain removers
- Dry-cleaning solvent
- Cornstarch or talcum powder (for oil-based stains)
- Microfiber cloths
- Fan or hair dryer (for drying)
The Golden Rules of Stain Removal
Following these fundamental principles dramatically increases your success rate with any stain:
Act Immediately: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it is to remove. Fresh stains haven’t had time to bond with fabric fibers or oxidize, making them much more responsive to cleaning.
Blot, Never Rub: Rubbing pushes stains deeper into fabric fibers and can damage the material’s texture. Always blot gently from the outside of the stain toward the center to prevent spreading.
Test First, Always: Even on W-coded fabrics, test your cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first. Different dye lots and fabric treatments can react unexpectedly to cleaning agents.
Work from the Outside In: Start cleaning at the stain’s outer edges and work toward the center. This prevents the stain from spreading to clean areas of fabric.
Use White Cloths: Colored cloths or paper towels can transfer dye to your upholstery, creating new stains while trying to remove the original one.
Rinse When Appropriate: For W-coded fabrics, after applying cleaning solutions, rinse the area with clean water and blot dry. Soap residue attracts dirt and can make the area look dingy over time.
Dry Thoroughly: Damp fabric can develop mildew, watermarks, or attract more dirt. Use fans, open windows, or a hair dryer on a cool setting to speed drying.
Know When to Call Professionals: Some stains, particularly on delicate or expensive fabrics, are best left to professional upholstery cleaners who have specialized equipment and expertise.
Fabric-Specific Stain Removal Techniques
Different upholstery fabrics require different approaches. Here’s how to clean the most common upholstery materials:
Cotton and Linen Upholstery (Usually W or SW Coded)
Cotton and linen are natural fibers that are generally durable and respond well to water-based cleaning, making them among the easiest upholstery fabrics to maintain.
General Cleaning Approach: Mix one teaspoon of mild dish soap with two cups of lukewarm water. Dip a clean white cloth into the solution, wring it out so it’s damp but not soaking, and gently blot the stain. Work from the outside edges toward the center.
For Common Stains:
Coffee and Tea: Blot immediately with cold water. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply to the stain, and blot. If the stain persists, try a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum and rinse.
Red Wine: Blot excess wine immediately. Pour salt generously over the stain to absorb remaining liquid. After 15-20 minutes, vacuum up the salt. Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar, one tablespoon of dish soap, and two cups of warm water. Sponge the stain with this solution, blotting frequently. Rinse with cold water and blot dry.
Grease and Oil: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch liberally over the stain to absorb oil. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (overnight for heavy stains), then vacuum thoroughly. Apply dish soap directly to the remaining stain, work it in gently with a soft brush, then rinse with warm water.
Ink: Dab (don’t rub) rubbing alcohol on the stain with a clean cloth. The ink should transfer to the cloth. Continue with fresh sections of cloth until no more ink transfers. Rinse the area with water and blot dry.
Special Considerations: While cotton and linen are durable, they can shrink or watermark if oversaturated. Always use minimal moisture and dry thoroughly. Sunlight can fade these fabrics, so avoid prolonged sun exposure during and after cleaning.
Microfiber Upholstery (Usually S or SW Coded)
Microfiber is a synthetic fabric made from extremely fine polyester fibers. It’s durable, stain-resistant, and popular for family furniture, but it requires specific cleaning methods.
General Cleaning Approach: Despite often having an S code, many microfiber pieces respond well to rubbing alcohol. Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl or higher). Spray the stained area lightly, then scrub gently with a white sponge or soft-bristled brush. The area will look darker when wet, but should dry evenly.
For Common Stains:
Water-Based Stains (Juice, Soda, Coffee): Blot immediately, then spray with rubbing alcohol and scrub gently with a white sponge. Let dry completely, then brush the nap of the fabric with a soft brush to restore its texture.
Grease and Oil: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Vacuum thoroughly. If a shadow remains, spray with rubbing alcohol and scrub gently.
Ink and Marker: Spray rubbing alcohol directly on the stain and blot with a clean white cloth. The ink should transfer to the cloth. Repeat until no more ink transfers.
Pet Stains: Blot up as much as possible, then use an enzyme-based pet stain remover designed for upholstery. Follow product directions carefully. After the enzyme cleaner has done its work, you can follow up with rubbing alcohol if needed.
Special Considerations: After cleaning the microfiber with rubbing alcohol, the fabric may feel stiff or look flat. Once completely dry, use a soft-bristled brush (like a clean shoe brush) to fluff the fibers and restore the fabric’s original texture. For overall cleaning, some people successfully use a spray bottle to mist the entire piece with rubbing alcohol, then brush the entire surface once dry to maintain a uniform appearance.
Velvet and Velour Upholstery (Usually S Coded)
Velvet and velour have a distinctive pile (raised fibers) that requires gentle, careful cleaning to avoid crushing or matting.
General Cleaning Approach: Velvet typically requires dry-cleaning solvents. Use a specialized upholstery dry-cleaning product following the manufacturer’s directions. Apply small amounts to avoid oversaturation.
For Common Stains:
Water-Based Spills: Blot immediately with a dry cloth. If the fabric is W or SW coded, you can use minimal moisture, but work quickly and dry thoroughly. Press a clean, dry cloth against the stain rather than wiping to avoid disturbing the pile.
Grease and Oil: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder generously over the stain. Let it sit for several hours to absorb the oil, then vacuum using the upholstery attachment with gentle suction. Repeat if necessary.
Makeup and Cosmetics: Use a specialized dry-cleaning solvent on a white cloth, dabbing gently at the stain. Avoid rubbing, which can damage the pile.
Special Considerations: Velvet shows watermarks easily, so avoid water unless your specific piece is coded for water-based cleaning. Never use heat to dry velvet, as it can permanently flatten the pile. Steam can sometimes refresh crushed velvet and remove light wrinkles. Always brush the pile in the direction of the nap after cleaning. For valuable or antique velvet furniture, professional cleaning is highly recommended.
Leather and Faux Leather Upholstery
While technically not fabric, leather and faux leather upholstery have specific cleaning requirements worth discussing.
Real Leather Cleaning: Wipe up spills immediately with a dry cloth. For cleaning, use a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, or a specialized leather cleaner. Apply with a slightly damp cloth, then dry immediately with a clean cloth. Condition leather every 6-12 months to prevent cracking.
Faux Leather Cleaning: Faux leather is typically easier to clean than real leather. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, apply with a soft cloth, and wipe clean. Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive water, which can cause the coating to peel.
For Common Stains on Leather:
Ink: Dab rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and gently apply to the ink stain. Be careful, as alcohol can dry out leather. Follow up with leather conditioner.
Grease: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain and let it sit overnight. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Dark Stains or Marks: Make a paste of cream of tartar and lemon juice. Apply to the stain, let sit for 10 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Special Considerations: Never use ammonia-based cleaners, bleach, or harsh chemicals on leather as they can cause irreparable damage. Always condition leather after cleaning to restore moisture and prevent cracking.
Polyester and Synthetic Blends (Usually W or SW Coded)
Polyester and synthetic blend upholstery is durable, stain-resistant, and generally easy to clean with water-based solutions.
General Cleaning Approach: Mix one tablespoon of clear dish soap with two cups of lukewarm water. Apply with a damp cloth, blotting the stain gently. Rinse with clean water and blot dry.
For Common Stains:
General Food and Beverage Stains: The soap and water solution works well for most common stains. For stubborn stains, add one tablespoon of white vinegar to the mixture.
Grease: Apply dish soap directly to the stain without diluting. Work it in gently with a soft brush, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and blot dry.
Mud and Dirt: Let mud dry completely, then vacuum or brush off as much as possible. Clean remaining stains with the soap and water solution.
Special Considerations: Polyester is generally forgiving and doesn’t watermark as easily as natural fibers. However, some polyester fabrics have special finishes that can be damaged by harsh cleaning, so always test first.
Silk and Delicate Fabrics (Usually S or X Coded)
Silk upholstery is luxurious but delicate, requiring extremely gentle care and usually professional cleaning for serious stains.
General Cleaning Approach: For silk marked S, use only dry-cleaning solvents applied sparingly with a white cloth. For X-coded silk, do not use any liquid cleaners—vacuum gently and call professionals for stains.
For Minor Stains on S-Coded Silk:
Light Surface Stains: Use a specialized upholstery dry-cleaning product, applying minimal amounts with a white cloth and dabbing gently. Never rub silk as it can damage the fibers and change the fabric’s sheen.
Powder-Based Stains (Dust, Makeup Powder): Use a soft brush or vacuum with upholstery attachment on low suction to remove powder without pressing it into the fabric.
Special Considerations: Silk is extremely sensitive to water, which causes permanent watermarks and can change the fabric’s texture. Sunlight fades silk quickly, so protect silk upholstery from direct sun exposure. For valuable silk upholstery, professional cleaning is always recommended for anything beyond light dusting.
Wool Upholstery (Usually W or SW Coded)
Wool is a durable natural fiber that resists stains naturally, but requires careful cleaning to prevent shrinkage and texture changes.
General Cleaning Approach: Mix a small amount of wool-safe detergent (like Woolite) with cool water. Apply minimal moisture with a damp cloth, blotting gently. Rinse with a cloth dampened with plain cool water and blot dry thoroughly.
For Common Stains:
Food and Beverage Stains: Blot immediately, then clean with the wool-safe detergent solution. Always use cool or lukewarm water, never hot, which can cause shrinkage.
Grease and Oil: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain, let sit for several hours, then vacuum. Clean remaining residue with wool-safe detergent.
Wine and Fruit Juice: Blot immediately, then apply a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Blot gently, rinse with cool water, and dry thoroughly.
Special Considerations: Wool can shrink or felt if exposed to hot water or excessive agitation. Always use cool water and minimal scrubbing. Dry wool completely to prevent mildew, which wool is susceptible to in damp conditions. Wool is naturally moth-resistant but can attract moths if soiled, so clean spills promptly and thoroughly.
Specific Stain Types and Removal Methods
Beyond fabric-specific techniques, certain stains require specialized approaches regardless of your upholstery type:
Protein-Based Stains (Blood, Milk, Egg)
Immediate Action: Blot up as much as possible without pushing the stain deeper into the fabric. Use cold water only—heat sets protein stains permanently.
Cleaning Method: For W or SW fabrics, create a solution of one tablespoon of ammonia with one cup of cold water. Blot the stain with this solution using a white cloth. Rinse with cold water and blot dry. For stubborn blood stains, hydrogen peroxide (3%) can be effective, but test first as it can bleach some fabrics.
Alternative: Mix one tablespoon of salt with one cup of cold water. Apply the stain and blot. The salt helps break down proteins.
Tannin Stains (Coffee, Tea, Wine, Juice)
Immediate Action: Blot immediately—tannin stains become permanent quickly.
Cleaning Method: For W or SW fabrics, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply the stain and blot. If the stain remains, follow with a baking soda paste (baking soda mixed with just enough water to form a paste). Spread the paste over the stain, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum and rinse.
Red Wine Specific: Salt works wonders on fresh red wine stains. Pour salt generously over the spill immediately—it will absorb the wine and turn pink. Leave it for 15-20 minutes, vacuum up, then clean the remaining residue with a vinegar solution.
Grease and Oil Stains
Immediate Action: Do not add water, which can spread oil stains. Sprinkle cornstarch, baking soda, or talcum powder over the stain immediately to absorb the oil.
Cleaning Method: Let the powder sit for at least 30 minutes (or several hours for heavy stains), then vacuum thoroughly. For remaining stains on W or SW fabrics, apply dish soap directly to the spot (Dawn works particularly well as it’s designed to cut grease). Work it in gently with a soft brush, let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and blot dry.
For Set-In Grease Stains: Repeat the powder absorption process overnight, then use a stronger degreasing solution or consider professional cleaning.
Ink Stains
Immediate Action: Do not rub—ink spreads easily and rubbing pushes it deeper into fibers.
Cleaning Method: Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is the most effective ink remover. Dab it onto the stain with a white cloth or cotton ball. The ink should transfer to the cloth. Keep using fresh sections of cloth until no more ink transfers. This works on most fabric types, though you should test first on S-coded fabrics.
Alternative for Delicate Fabrics: Hairspray (which contains alcohol) can work on delicate fabrics where rubbing alcohol might be too harsh. Spray from a distance, then blot with a clean cloth.
Pet Stains (Urine, Vomit, Feces)
Immediate Action: Remove solid waste carefully with paper towels. Blot liquids immediately without rubbing.
Cleaning Method: Enzyme-based cleaners specifically designed for pet stains are most effective because they break down the proteins and bacteria causing both stains and odors. Apply according to product directions, typically spraying the affected area, letting it sit for the recommended time, then blotting dry.
For Urine Stains: After cleaning with enzyme cleaner, you can follow with a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water to neutralize odors. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Odor Removal: Sprinkle baking soda over the cleaned area after it’s completely dry. Let it sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum. Baking soda absorbs lingering odors naturally.
Wax and Gum
Immediate Action: Let the wax or gum harden completely. You can speed this up by applying ice cubes in a plastic bag.
Removal Method: Once hardened, gently scrape off as much as possible with a dull knife or credit card edge. For remaining residue on W or SW fabrics, place a white paper towel over the spot and press with a warm (not hot) iron. The wax will transfer to the paper towel. Use fresh paper towels and repeat until no more wax transfers.
For Gum: After scraping off the bulk, rubbing alcohol can help remove remaining residue. Apply with a cloth and blot gently.
Mold and Mildew
Safety First: Wear gloves and a mask when dealing with mold. Ensure good ventilation.
Cleaning Method: For W or SW fabrics, mix one cup of white vinegar with two cups of water. Spray or apply to the affected area and let it sit for several hours. Blot clean and dry thoroughly. Sunlight is a natural mold killer—if possible, move the furniture outside to dry in direct sunlight.
For Stubborn Mold: A solution of one part hydrogen peroxide (3%) to two parts water can be more effective. Test first, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach some fabrics.
Prevention: Mold grows in damp conditions. Ensure furniture is completely dry after cleaning and maintain good air circulation in your home. Consider using a dehumidifier in humid climates.
Advanced Stain Removal Techniques
For particularly stubborn stains that don’t respond to basic cleaning:
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning works well on W-coded fabrics and can remove deep-set stains that surface cleaning can’t reach. You can rent upholstery steam cleaners or hire professionals.
DIY Steam Cleaning: Follow the machine’s instructions carefully. Use an appropriate cleaning solution for your fabric type. Work in sections, overlapping slightly. Allow furniture to dry completely—this can take 24 hours or more. Use fans to speed drying and prevent mildew.
Professional Steam Cleaning: For valuable furniture or stubborn stains, professional steam cleaning is worth the investment. Professionals have commercial-grade equipment and expertise with different fabric types.
Dry-Cleaning at Home
For S-coded fabrics, home dry-cleaning kits can be effective for overall cleaning, though they’re less effective on specific stains.
How to Use: Follow product directions exactly. These typically involve placing the fabric item in a bag with a cleaning sheet and running it in the dryer on low heat. Since you can’t put entire furniture pieces in the dryer, these kits are most useful for removable cushion covers.
Oxygen-Based Cleaners
Products containing oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) can be effective on tough stains for colorfast W-coded fabrics.
How to Use: Mix according to package directions, test on a hidden area, then apply to the stain. Let it sit for the recommended time (usually 15-30 minutes), then rinse thoroughly and blot dry.
Caution: Oxygen bleach can fade colors on some fabrics. Always test first and never use on S or X-coded fabrics.
Preventing Future Stains
Prevention is always easier than cleaning:
Fabric Protection Treatments: Consider professional fabric protection treatments (like Scotchgard) that create an invisible barrier against stains. Many manufacturers apply these treatments during production, but they wear off over time and need reapplication.
Use Throws and Covers: Washable throws, slipcovers, and arm covers protect high-traffic areas and can be easily cleaned.
Establish House Rules: No eating or drinking on certain furniture, removing shoes, and keeping pets off upholstered pieces reduces stain risk dramatically.
Regular Maintenance: Vacuum upholstered furniture weekly to remove dirt and dust before they become ground-in stains. This is especially important in high-traffic areas.
Act Quickly: Keep basic cleaning supplies readily accessible so you can address spills immediately when they happen.
When to Call a Professional
Some situations require professional expertise:
- Valuable, antique, or heirloom furniture
- Large or set-in stains that home cleaning hasn’t resolved
- Delicate fabrics like silk, vintage textiles, or X-coded materials
- When you’re unsure about your fabric type or the appropriate cleaning method
- After flooding or water damage that has saturated furniture
- When cleaning attempts have made the stain worse or damaged the fabric
- For overall deep cleaning to restore heavily soiled furniture
Professional upholstery cleaners have specialized equipment, professional-grade cleaning solutions, and expertise with different fabric types that justify their cost for challenging situations.
Final Thoughts
Successfully removing stains from upholstered furniture requires understanding your specific fabric type, acting quickly, using appropriate cleaning methods, and knowing when to call for professional help. The techniques outlined in this guide work for the vast majority of common stains and fabric types, but always remember the golden rule: test first in an inconspicuous area.
With the right knowledge and prompt action, most stains can be removed or significantly reduced, extending the life and beauty of your upholstered furniture. Keep basic cleaning supplies on hand, address spills immediately, and don’t be afraid to invest in professional cleaning for valuable pieces or stubborn stains. Your furniture is an investment in your home’s comfort and style—proper care ensures it remains beautiful for years to come.
Remember that some stains may never completely disappear, especially if they’ve set for a long time or have been treated improperly in the past. In these cases, strategic furniture placement, decorative throws, or reupholstering may be your best options. But with the comprehensive fabric-specific techniques in this guide, you’re now equipped to handle the vast majority of upholstery stains successfully and confidently.
