Cleaning Guide Fabric sofas
How to Clean and Care for Your Sofa Fabric
Your sofa is one of the most-used pieces of furniture in your home, so keeping it looking fresh is essential. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips and easy care routines to help you clean, maintain, and protect your fabric sofa, so it stays comfortable and beautiful for years.
Regular care of fabric upholstery
Vacuum weekly with an upholstery attachment, using low suction. This removes dust, pet hair, and grit that can damage fabric fibres.
Spot clean where necessary (see below).
Protect from direct or prolonged sunlight.
We recommend not favouring one seat to ensure even wear and longer life for your sofa. Although, don’t we all have our “spot” on the sofa?
Professional upholstery cleaning is recommended every 6 months to help remove dirt and soiling and maintain the sofa's appearance.
Spot Cleaning Fabric
Look for a cleaning code (usually under the cushions or attached to the sofa frame):
W – Water-based cleaner
S – Solvent-based cleaner only
WS – Water or solvent-based is okay
X – Vacuum only (no liquids)
Use a suitable fabric cleaner
Water-based stains: Mix warm water and a drop of mild dish soap.
Oil-based stains: Use a dry cleaning solvent or rubbing alcohol (for “S” labelled fabrics).
Water-based stains
Gently blot immediately - Use a clean white cloth or paper towel to blot (not rub) the stain. Absorb as much liquid as possible.
Mix a Mild Cleaning Solution by combining:
1 cup warm water
A few drops of mild dish soap or fabric-safe detergent
Pre-test the cleaning method on a hidden area of the sofa. Do not continue if there is an adverse reaction, such as colour transfer.
Dampen a microfiber cloth with the solution and gently dab the stained area. Avoid rubbing, as this may cause the stain to spread and cause fabric damage.
Alternate with a clean, damp cloth to remove any cleaning solution residue.
If the stain has been reduced but not completely removed, a second and third application may be required. Allow the area to dry between stain removal attempts.
Blot with a dry towel.
Let air dry or use a fan.
Oil-based stains
Gently blot excess oil
Use a dry cloth or paper towel.
Press gently to lift surface oil.
Sprinkle with Cornstarch or Bicarb Soda/Baking Soda and let it sit for 15–30 minutes to absorb oil.
Vacuum thoroughly.
Spot Clean with a Solvent (for “S” or “WS” Fabrics)
Use rubbing alcohol or a dry cleaning solvent.
Lightly dampen a cloth and dab the area.
Blot gently with a dry cloth.
Repeat for stubborn stains by reapplying solvent and blotting again.
Avoid over-saturating the fabric.
For an all-over clean:
Use a fabric upholstery cleaner (spray or machine-based like Bissell SpotClean).
Lightly mist (don’t saturate) and scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth.
Rinse lightly with clean water if needed.
DRY PROPERLY
Blot any excess moisture.
Open windows or use fans/air conditioning to speed drying.
Avoid using the couch until fully dry to prevent mould or odours.
OPTIONAL: PROTECT THE FABRIC
Using a non-toxic fabric protector, a stain and water repellent spray that doesn't contain harsh chemicals, fumes, or odours, is safer for your family and pets than traditional over-the-counter products. These products are typically water-based and use natural ingredients to protect fabrics from stains and liquids.
Always follow the product instructions carefully.
Pilling - Let’s de-fuzz!
Pills result from normal wear and tear caused by normal daily use. The most common cause of pilling occurs when the hundreds of micro yarns in the fabric fuse together and pick up foreign particles from other woven fabrics, just like your clothing. This kind of pilling often results in the pills being a different colour from your sofa.
Use the upholstery attachment to remove loose fibres and dust.
This preps the fabric for a smoother, cleaner defuzzing process.
Choose a Pill-Removal Tool
Depending on your sofa fabric and how delicate it is, choose one of the following:
Fabric Shaver (Electric Lint Remover)
Best for most woven fabrics and synthetic blends.
How: Glide gently over the fabric; avoid seams or piping.
Popular brands in Australia: Philips, Steamery, Kmart Anko.
Sweater Comb or Manual Lint Remover
Best for: Delicate fabrics (e.g. wool blends, linen).
How: Gently brush over pilled areas in one direction.
Disposable Razor (as a DIY method)
Best for: Small areas, if you don't have a shaver.
How: Lightly drag the razor over the pilled surface.
Caution: Be very gentle to avoid cutting the fabric.
Clean Up
Vacuum again or use a lint roller to pick up loosened fibres.
Otherwise, please call a Professional Upholstery Cleaner or consider a strategically placed cushion or blanket. Or… is it just time to invest in a new sofa?