Free House Repair Tutorials - Clean your Furniture and Upholstery

Some manufacturers have adopted the voluntary uniform standards for furniture cleanability developed by an industry committee. If used, each fabric will be marked with a code which indicates the appropriate cleaning method.

The code may be printed on fabric samples, on a label under seat cushions and/or on hand tags. Use as a guide for spot removal, and for overall cleaning.

W--Use Water-Based Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with the foam only of a water-based cleaning agent such as a mild detergent or commercial upholstery shampoo. Use sparingly. Avoid overwetting.

S--Use Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with a mild water-free dry-cleaning solvent available in local stores. Use sparingly in a well-ventilated room with no sparks or flame in the room. CAUTION: Use of water-based solvent cleaners may cause spotting and/or excessive shrinking. Solvent cleaning agents will not remove water stains.

S-W--Use Water-Based or Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with a dry-cleaning solvent, mild detergent foam or upholstery shampoo, depending on the stain.

X--Vacuum Only. Clean this fabric only by vacuuming or light brushing to prevent accumulation of dust and grime. Water-based foam or solvent-based cleaning agents of any kind may cause excessive shrinking, fading or spotting.

Next Page: Testing Cleanability / Testing Type of Cleaning Needed

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