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How to Clean Upholstery Without Ruining It

Cleaning Tips

Sofas and armchairs take a beating. But the wrong cleaning method can shrink fabric, leave watermarks, or void your warranty. Here's the safe approach.

Sophie Langley

5 min read

White quilted perforated car seat interior.

Read the Cleaning Code First

Almost all upholstered furniture has a cleaning code tag: W (water-based cleaners safe), S (solvent only), WS (either), or X (vacuum only). Using the wrong type can cause permanent shrinking, watermarks, or discolouration.

Regular Vacuuming Is Non-Negotiable

Vacuuming upholstery weekly with an upholstery attachment removes surface dust, crumbs, and pet hair before they work deeper into the fabric. This is the single best thing you can do to extend a sofa’s life.

Spot Cleaning Without Watermarks

For W-code fabrics, use a clean white cloth dampened (not wet) with an upholstery cleaner. Work from the outside in, blotting rather than rubbing. Feather the edges outward after to prevent a clear tideline.

Professional Steam Cleaning Once a Year

For deep cleaning upholstery — especially in household with children or pets — annual professional steam cleaning removes ground-in dirt and allergens that regular cleaning can’t reach. LumiClean’s upholstery service uses low-moisture hot extraction safe for most fabric types.

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