How to Make Upholstery Fabric Cleaner: DIY Tips for Deep Cleaning and Stain Removal

Cleaning fabric upholstery doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether it’s a sofa, ottoman, or a set of dining chairs, your upholstery can maintain its beauty with just a little regular care and attention. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best ways to make fabric upholstery cleaner, focusing on natural, eco-friendly solutions for deep cleaning fabric furniture and effective stain removal for upholstery. We’ll also cover easy-to-make DIY upholstery cleaner recipes and other helpful upholstery cleaning tips.

The fabric you choose is the key to unlocking an ottoman’s full potential—durable options promise resilience against daily life’s demands, while luxurious materials infuse your home with elegance and style. Embrace this opportunity to make your ottoman not just an item in your home but an inspiring statement of design and purpose!

What is the Best Way to Clean Upholstery Fabric?

The best way to clean fabric upholstery starts with understanding the fabric type and the recommended cleaning method. Most fabric furniture comes with a cleaning code, which will give you a clue as to how to clean it:

• W = Water-based cleaner is safe.
• S = Solvent-based cleaner is best.
• WS = Water or solvent cleaners can be used.
• X = Vacuum only, no water or solvent.

Once you've figured out the cleaning method for your specific upholstery, you can proceed with the cleaning process. For most fabrics, start with regular vacuuming to remove dust, crumbs, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to gently clean the fabric without causing any damage.

If the fabric code is W or WS and you’re looking for natural upholstery cleaner options, consider using a homemade fabric cleaner. These solutions are not only effective but also free of harsh chemicals, making them an ideal choice for those sensitive to store-bought cleaners,

How Do You Deep Clean A Fabric Sofa?

Deep cleaning fabric furniture is essential for removing built-up dirt and grime from the fibers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to deep clean fabric sofas:

1. Vacuum Thoroughly: Start by vacuuming your sofa with an upholstery attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and debris from every crevice.

2. Spot Test: Before using any cleaner, test it in an inconspicuous area like under a cushion to ensure it won’t cause discoloration or damage.

3. Use a Fabric Upholstery Cleaner: You can purchase a fabric upholstery cleaner or make your own DIY upholstery cleaner. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap or create a natural solution using white vinegar and water.

4. Dab Gently: Use a microfiber cloth to apply the cleaner to the fabric, working in dabbing motions to lift dirt.

5. Rinse and Dry: If you used a water-based solution, blot the fabric with a clean, damp cloth to remove excess cleaner. Let the sofa air dry completely.

Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Upholstery?

Yes! Vinegar is a versatile and natural cleaner that can be used for upholstery fabric.. It’s great for neutralizing odors and removing light stains. To create a natural upholstery cleaner, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the fabric (don’t soak it), then dab gently with a microfiber cloth. Vinegar is an excellent choice for those looking to clean fabric furniture without resorting to harsh chemicals. It’s effective at deodorizing and breaking down dirt, while also being completely eco-friendly.

What Household Products Can I Use to Clean Upholstery?

Several common household products can be used to clean fabric upholstery effectively. Here are some of the best options:

• Baking Soda: Great for deodorizing upholstery and tackling light stains. Sprinkle baking soda on the fabric, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum it off.
• Dish Soap (W, WS): A small amount of gentle dish soap mixed with warm water works wonders for removing stains.
• Rubbing Alcohol (S, WS): Excellent for stain removal for upholstery like ink marks. Dab rubbing alcohol on the stain using a cotton ball and blot with a clean cloth.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (S, WS): A diluted hydrogen peroxide solution (3%) can be used for disinfecting and removing stains.

These common products make a homemade fabric cleaner that’s gentle on your furniture and your budget.

How Do You Remove Tough Stains from Upholstery?

These common products make a homemade fabric cleaner that’s gentle on your furniture and your budget:

• Coffee or Tea Stains (W, WS): Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb excess liquid. Then, apply a mixture of warm water and dish soap to the spot. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a damp cloth to lift the stain.
• Ink Stains (S, WS): Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain with a cotton ball. Blot gently with a clean cloth to lift the ink.
• Grease or Oil Stains (W, WS): Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. Vacuum up the soda, then clean with a water-based upholstery cleaner.
• Pet Stains: Use an enzymatic upholstery fabric cleaner that’s specifically designed to break down organic matter. Follow the manufacturer instructions.

Featured Fabrics: Marcus Navy, Ellen Ocean, Callahan Surf

For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or try a specialized upholstery stain solution. Better yet, upholstery your pieces in performance or Crypton fabric that will repel the stains, odors, and liquids from the start!

Is Steam Cleaning Safe for Fabric Upholstery?

Steam cleaning is a fantastic option for deep cleaning fabric sofas and other furniture with codes W and WS. It uses high-temperature steam to lift dirt and sanitize without harsh chemicals. However, it’s important to use steam cleaning carefully:

• Check the Fabric: Some delicate fabrics like silk or velvet can be damaged by steam cleaning. Always check the care label before using steam.
• Use Correct Settings: Set your steam cleaner to a low setting to avoid soaking the fabric and causing damage.
• Dry Completely: After steam cleaning, allow the fabric to dry completely before using the furniture again.

When used correctly, steam cleaning is a safe, effective, and eco-friendly fabric cleaner option that can eliminate dirt, bacteria, and even allergens from your upholstery.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning fabric upholstery is essential for keeping your furniture looking fresh and new. Whether you're using a store-bought or DIY upholstery cleaner, there are many ways to maintain the look of your fabric furniture. Regular vacuuming, spot cleaning, and occasional deep cleaning will ensure that your pieces remain comfortable and attractive for years to come. Don’t forget to try some natural upholstery cleaner solutions, while adhering to the cleaning code of the fabric. Ignoring these coded cleaning suggestions might result in damage to your upholstery. When in doubt, hire a professional upholstery cleaning company!