Why upholstery needs a different approach
Upholstery fabrics vary far more than carpets. Some tolerate water well; others can shrink, mark, lose colour or develop water rings if cleaned with too much moisture. That's why upholstery cleaners start by checking the fabric and its care code before choosing a method.
Benefits of professional upholstery cleaning
Professional cleaning can:
- Lift body oils and dirt from arms, headrests and seat cushions
- Freshen fabric sofas and chairs
- Treat many common food and drink marks
- Clean dining chairs, headboards and ottomans
- Refresh mattresses with vacuuming and surface cleaning
Care codes and fabrics
Many sofas carry a cleaning code on a label under the cushions. Codes vary between manufacturers, but they generally indicate whether water-based or solvent-based cleaning is suitable. If there's no label, a cleaner should test an inconspicuous area first.
Leather, velvet, silk and some natural fibres need specialist products or methods. Not every carpet cleaner does upholstery, and some specialise only in it.
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Mattress cleaning
Mattress cleaning usually combines thorough vacuuming with surface cleaning and, where suitable, stain treatment. It can freshen a mattress and deal with surface marks, but it won't make an old mattress new or remove deep stains in every case.
What to expect
Results depend on the fabric, its condition and the cause of any marks. Some stains – especially old ones or those already treated with household products – may only fade rather than disappear. A good cleaner will be honest about this before starting.
