Top Tips for Removing Stains from Upholstered Furniture

Garry Roberson
Jul 2
4 min read

Upholstered furniture adds comfort and style to any home, but maintaining that beauty can be challenging. Accidents happen, and stains are an inevitable part of life, especially in homes with kids and pets. This post shares practical tips for removing stains from upholstered furniture, ensuring your pieces stay looking fresh and clean.

Furniture Cleaning Basics

Before diving into specific stain removal techniques, it's important to understand the basics of furniture cleaning. Regularly vacuuming your upholstered furniture can help prevent dirt and debris from settling into the fabric. Aim to do this weekly or more often if you have pets. Additionally, consider using a soft brush attachment to gently clean any delicate fabrics.

Eye-level view of a vacuum cleaner on a couch — Vacuuming upholstered furniture to prevent dirt build-up.

When tackling stains, always check the manufacturer's cleaning instructions, which can often be found on a tag hidden beneath the cushions. This will ensure you use the appropriate cleaning methods and products that won't damage the fabric.

Understanding Different Types of Stains

Understanding the type of stain you are dealing with is crucial when it comes to effective removal. Stains can generally be categorized into two groups: water-soluble and oil-soluble.

Water-soluble stains: These include stains from beverages like coffee, tea, soda, or even water. They can usually be tackled with a simple solution involving water and mild detergent.
Oil-soluble stains: These are caused by substances like grease, oil, or butter. They require a different approach, often involving a solvent-based cleaner.

Knowing the nature of the stain can significantly impact the effectiveness of your stain-removal efforts.

Close-up view of different types of cleaning solutions — Various cleaning solutions for removing stains from upholstered furniture.

What is the Average Cost of Upholstery Cleaning?

If the stains on your upholstered furniture are stubborn and persistent, you may need to consider professional cleaning services. The average cost of upholstery cleaning can vary widely depending on several factors, including the size of the furniture, the type of fabric, and the extent of the stains.

Average Costs: Generally, upholstery cleaning can range from $100 to $300 for a sofa. Chairs and smaller items typically cost less.
Factors Affecting Costs: Specialty fabrics, such as leather or microfiber, may incur additional fees. Furthermore, if your upholstery requires extensive stain treatment or other special care, expect higher charges.

Investing in professional upholstery cleaning may be necessary to bring your furniture back to its original state, especially for complex or multiple stains.

High angle view of a professional upholstery cleaner at work — Professional cleaning of upholstered furniture to remove tough stains.

DIY Stain Removal Techniques

For those who prefer to handle stains on their own, there are several effective DIY techniques to consider. Here are some tips for specific types of stains:

1. Water-soluble stains

For stains like coffee or juice, follow these steps:

Mix a solution: Combine one tablespoon of liquid dish soap with two cups of warm water.
Apply the solution: Using a clean cloth, sponge, or soft-bristled brush, apply the mixture to the stain, working from the outside in to avoid spreading it.
Blot the area: Always blot the stain with a dry cloth instead of rubbing it, as this can worsen the damage.
Rinse: Once the stain lifts, use a second cloth dipped in clean water to rinse the area and then blot dry.

2. Oil-soluble stains

For grease or oil stains, here's what you can do:

Apply baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda directly on the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes. This will absorb the oil.
Vacuum the area: After 15 minutes, vacuum up the baking soda.
Clean with detergent: Use a mixture of water and mild dish soap as mentioned above. Apply this to the area and follow the same blot-rinse-dry method.

3. Ink stains

Ink stains can be tricky, but not impossible to tackle:

Alcohol solution: Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently blot the ink stain.
Pat dry: After the ink starts to lift, use a dry cloth to absorb the moisture.

Additional Tips for Success

While the above methods are effective for specific stains, there are some general strategies to ensure your success in stain removal:

Test on a hidden area first: Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area of the upholstery first to ensure it does not discolor or damage the fabric.
Work quickly: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it will be to remove. Don't let it set for too long.
Use the right tools: Employ soft cloths, brushes, and sponges designed for cleaning upholstery to avoid causing further damage.
Seek professional help if needed: If your attempts aren’t yielding results, don’t hesitate to call in the pros.

Wide angle view of a well-maintained living room with clean upholstery — Well-maintained upholstery furniture can enhance the living room's aesthetics.

Maintaining Clean Upholstered Furniture

Once your upholstery is clean and stain-free, consider these practices to maintain its condition:

Regular cleaning: Aside from vacuuming, a professional cleaning every 6-12 months can prolong the life of your furniture.
Protective sprays: Invest in fabric protectors that repel stains and spills.
Avoid sun exposure: Direct sunlight can fade upholstery. Arrange your furniture to minimize sun exposure.

Upholstered furniture can be a beautiful addition to your home, but it requires regular maintenance and care. By following these tips, you can ensure your furniture stays clean and looks great for years to come.