🛋️ How to Clean & Maintain Your Upholstered Furniture — Dayton Discount Furniture Style

At Dayton Discount Furniture, we believe your investment in quality pieces deserves lasting beauty and comfort. Whether you've chosen a plush sofa or a sleek accent chair, maintaining it properly ensures it stays fresh and inviting. Drawing inspiration from expert cleaning tips, here’s a comprehensive guide tailored to your needs.

1. Know Your Fabric: Check the Cleaning Code

Before anything else, locate the manufacturer’s label. Codes typically include:

• W: Water-based cleaning safe

• S: Solvent-based cleaner only

• WS: Either water or solvent

• X: Vacuum only—no liquids
  Using the correct cleaner will protect your furniture’s fabric and color 

2. Regular Vacuuming = Your Best Defense

Once a week, vacuum your upholstery thoroughly — including cushions, seams, and crevices — to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair. Use a soft-bristle brush attachment, and rotate or flip cushions for even wear.

3. Blot Stains ASAP—Never Rub

Accidents happen! For spills:

• Blot immediately with a microfiber cloth—don’t rub, to prevent pushing the stain deeper

• For water-based stains (coffee, juice), blot with damp cloth

• For solvent-safe fabrics, use rubbing alcohol or a commercial upholstery solvent (spot test first!) 

• For oil-based stains, apply mild detergent solution or use baking soda to absorb first 

4. DIY Cleaning for W & WS Fabrics

For fabrics marked W/WS, you can safely clean at home:

1. Mix 1 tsp of mild dish soap in a gallon of warm water

2. Dip a sponge lightly in suds (avoid soaking!)

3. Wipe furniture from top to bottom

4. Rinse with a clean damp cloth

5. Air dry away from heat/sunlight—use a fan to speed drying 

5. Leather Care Simplified

For leather upholstery:

• Wipe weekly with a damp cloth

• Avoid harsh cleaners (like ammonia)

• Use a leather conditioner occasionally to prevent drying 

6. Deodorize with Baking Soda or Vinegar

Keep odors at bay by sprinkling baking soda, letting it sit, then vacuuming. For deeper refresh, lightly mist fabric with vinegar-water mix and air dry—it neutralizes smells naturally .

7. Prevention & Protective Measures

• Use removable covers or throws on high-use furniture

• Keep heavy sunlight exposure away to prevent fading

• Rotate and fluff cushions weekly to maintain shape

• Groom pets regularly to reduce hair and dander 

8. Bring in Professionals When Needed

For embedded grime or tough stains, professional cleaning is worth it. Experts inspect your fabric, choose a safe method, and use equipment that removes deep-seated dirt, allergens, and bacteria. Aim for 1–2 professional cleanings per year .

Why This Matters — Longer Lasting Furniture, Happier Homes

Following these steps does more than clean—it preserves durability, prevents costly replacements, and ensures your home environment is healthy and polished .

Quick-Clean Summary

Ready to Refresh?

Stop by Dayton Discount Furniture for personalized advice on keeping your upholstery looking pristine. We’ve got top-tier furniture, friendly service, and access to professional cleaning referrals—plus white-glove setup that ensures your pieces stay in perfect condition.

Need help picking cleaning products, matching your décor, or setting up a cleaning schedule? Just ask—we’ve got your back.