Upholstered furniture is one of the biggest investments in your home’s interior, offering comfort, style, and functionality. Over time, though, sofas, chairs, and other fabric-covered furniture collect dust, stains, pet hair, and allergens. That’s why regular upholstery cleaning is essential—not just for appearances, but also for hygiene and durability.
In this blog, we’ll dive into why upholstery cleaning matters, how often it should be done, different cleaning methods, and when it’s best to call in a professional.
Why Upholstery Cleaning Is Important
Your couch may look clean, but it could be hiding layers of dirt, oils, and bacteria. Daily use, spills, and even airborne particles can settle into the fabric, affecting both the look and health of your furniture.
Benefits of Upholstery Cleaning:
Extends furniture life
Removes dirt, allergens, and bacteria
Improves indoor air quality
Restores original color and texture
Eliminates pet odors and stains
Regular cleaning not only keeps your home smelling and looking better—it also protects your investment in high-quality furniture.
How Often Should You Clean Upholstery?
It depends on how often the furniture is used and whether you have pets, kids, or allergy sufferers in your home.
General Recommendations:
Every 12–18 months for general maintenance
Every 6–12 months if you have pets or children
Immediately for spills and visible stains
Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can help keep your furniture looking clean in between deep cleans.
Common Upholstery Cleaning Methods
Not all upholstery fabrics are created equal. Always check the manufacturer’s label before applying any cleaning solution or method.
Here are some common upholstery cleaning techniques:
1. Vacuuming
Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove loose dirt, pet hair, and crumbs. Focus on seams, crevices, and under cushions.
2. Steam Cleaning
Also known as hot water extraction, this method uses steam and suction to lift dirt from deep within the fabric. Steam cleaning is highly effective but should be done by professionals to avoid over-wetting or damaging delicate materials.
3. Dry Cleaning (Solvent-Based)
Some fabrics can't handle water. In those cases, dry cleaning with a solvent-based cleaner is the safest method. Always spot-test a small hidden area first.
4. Foam or Shampoo Cleaning
Special upholstery foam or fabric shampoo is applied to the fabric, scrubbed gently, and then vacuumed when dry. Be cautious not to soak the fabric or leave residue behind.
DIY Upholstery Cleaning Tips
If you’re not ready to hire a professional, you can still do a lot to maintain clean furniture on your own. Here are a few tips:
1. Blot Stains, Don’t Rub
As soon as a spill happens, blot it gently with a clean cloth. Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fibers.
2. Make a Homemade Cleaner
Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water and use a clean cloth to gently dab the stained area. Avoid over-saturating the fabric.
3. Use Baking Soda for Odors
Sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum it up. It’s an easy way to neutralize odors naturally.
4. Keep Sunlight in Check
Direct sunlight can fade fabric over time. Rotate cushions regularly and keep furniture out of direct sun when possible.
When to Call Professional Upholstery Cleaners
There are times when professional help is the best option:
Deep stains or pet urine damage
Heavily soiled or light-colored fabrics
Specialty fabrics like velvet, suede, or silk
Mold or mildew odors
Annual or seasonal deep cleaning
Professional cleaners have the equipment and knowledge to safely clean delicate or expensive upholstery without causing damage.
Tips for Maintaining Clean Upholstery
To extend the time between deep cleans, follow these easy habits:
Vacuum weekly
Flip and rotate cushions monthly
Use washable covers or throws
Keep pets off the furniture (or use pet-friendly covers)
Spot-clean spills immediately
Conclusion
Upholstery cleaning is more than just a cosmetic fix—it's about protecting your furniture, improving your home’s air quality, and creating a cleaner living environment. Whether you're maintaining it yourself or hiring professionals, regular Zoliks cleaning is a smart and necessary part of home care.
If your furniture is starting to look tired or smells less than fresh, it might be time to schedule a deep clean. You’ll be surprised at the difference it makes—not just in how your furniture looks, but how your whole room feels.