Upholstery Care: Keeping Sofas Fresh Between Professional Cleans

Upholstery collects dust, skin cells and spills without you noticing.

Looking after it day to day makes each professional clean more effective.

Check the care label first

Most upholstered furniture has a care label, often under a cushion or beneath the seat. The code tells you what is safe to use.

• W means water-based cleaners can be used.
• S means solvent-based cleaners only.
• WS means either water-based or solvent-based.
• X means vacuum only, with no liquids.

If there is no label, test any product on a hidden area first and follow the manufacturer guidance.

Vacuum and plump regularly

Use the upholstery tool to lift dust and crumbs from the seat, the arms and down the sides of the cushions. A weekly pass is a good habit for busy sofas.

Plumping and turning loose cushions spreads the wear and helps them keep their shape.

If you share your home with pets, see our pet owners’ guide to keeping carpets and sofas clean.

Act quickly on spills

Blot a spill with a clean, dry cloth, working from the edge towards the centre. Rubbing pushes the liquid deeper into the fabric and can spread the mark.

Avoid soaking the area. Too much water can leave rings and slow drying, which is how damp smells start.

Rotate cushions and limit direct sun

Strong sunlight fades colour over time, so a sofa beside a south-facing window benefits from blinds or a throw during the brightest hours.

Swap loose cushions around every few weeks so one seat does not take all the wear.

Schedule a professional clean

Even with good habits, dirt builds up deep in the fabric. Our upholstery cleaning service is a good fit when a sofa looks dull, smells stale or has marks that blotting has not shifted.

We bring all supplies and equipment and use green products that are safe for children and pets. Book online or request a free, no-obligation quote.