Cleaning Different Upholstery Fabrics: What Changes

Reading the fabric cleaning code

Most upholstered furniture carries a small tag, usually under a cushion or on the frame, with a code: W for water-based cleaner only, S for solvent-based cleaner only with no water, WS for either method, and X for vacuum only with no liquid cleaner at all, professional assessment needed. Checking this before cleaning anything is the single most useful step most people skip.

Natural fibre vs synthetic: why the method changes

Synthetic fabrics like polyester and microfibre generally tolerate water-based cleaning well. Some natural fibres and specific weaves react differently, shrinking, watermarking, or losing their finish, when the wrong method is used. This is exactly why the code on the tag matters more than assuming one method works everywhere.

Leather: a different category entirely

Leather does not follow the fabric codes at all, it needs its own approach. The wrong product can dry it out, crack the surface, or damage the finish permanently. Beyond routine wiping, leather upholstery is generally worth a professional assessment rather than a DIY attempt with a generic fabric cleaner.

When to call rather than guess

If there is no visible tag, the fabric feels unusual, or you are dealing with a genuinely valued piece, a professional assessment before cleaning avoids risking damage that cannot be undone. We can tell you honestly what method suits your specific piece before starting.

Frequently asked questions