How To Remove Stains From Upholstery

Zino July 7, 2023

0 252 12 minutes read

How to remove stains from upholstery – Upholstered furniture adds comfort, style, and warmth to our homes. However, it’s inevitable that accidents and spills happen, leaving unsightly stains on our beloved upholstery. Whether it’s a stubborn coffee stain, a splash of wine, or a pet-related mishap, knowing how to effectively remove stains from upholstery is essential to keep your furniture looking clean and fresh.

I’m very positive that the majority of responsible furniture owners are aware that spills and stains on upholstery should be cleaned as soon as possible. It’s the correct thing to do and has the best chance of removing the stain. But consider the situations when it’s simply not possible to remove a stain right away.enoughinfo

Removing stains from upholstery is important for maintaining aesthetics, prolonging the lifespan of upholstery, promoting hygiene and health, facilitating maintenance and upkeep, preserving value, enhancing psychological well-being, and protecting warranty coverage. By adopting effective stain-removal techniques and practicing preventive measures, you can enjoy clean, fresh, and stain-free upholstery for years to come.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore various methods and techniques to help you tackle different types of stains and restore the beauty of your upholstery.enoughinfo

Removing stains from upholstery is important for several reasons:

Aesthetics: Upholstery is a significant component of home decor, and stains can detract from the overall appearance of furniture and furnishings. Stains make the upholstery look dirty, worn, and unkempt. By removing stains, you can restore the beauty and freshness of your upholstery, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your living space.
Longevity: Stains, if left untreated, can cause permanent damage to upholstery fabrics. They can penetrate deep into the fibers, weaken the fabric structure, and lead to discoloration or deterioration over time. Regular stain removal helps to prolong the life of your upholstery, allowing you to enjoy it for years without the need for costly replacements.
Hygiene and Health: Upholstery is often in close contact with our bodies, making it prone to stains from spills, sweat, body oils, and other substances. Stains on upholstery can harbor bacteria, allergens, and unpleasant odors, posing a potential risk to our health and well-being. By effectively removing stains, you maintain a clean and hygienic environment, reducing the chances of allergens or bacteria buildup.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Regular stain removal is a part of proper maintenance and upkeep of upholstery. By addressing stains promptly, you prevent them from setting in and becoming more difficult to remove. It also helps in maintaining the overall cleanliness of your upholstery, making regular cleaning and maintenance tasks easier and more effective.
Preservation of Value: Upholstery is an investment, and maintaining its value is essential, especially if you plan to sell or pass down your furniture. Stains can significantly diminish the value of upholstery, making it less appealing to potential buyers or reducing its resale value. By keeping your upholstery stain-free and well-maintained, you can preserve its value and ensure a higher return on investment in the long run.
Psychological Impact: Clean and stain-free upholstery has a positive psychological impact on our well-being. It creates a sense of cleanliness, comfort, and satisfaction within our living spaces. On the other hand, stained upholstery can be a source of stress, embarrassment, or dissatisfaction. By removing stains, you create a visually pleasing and inviting atmosphere, contributing to a positive mindset and overall happiness.
Protection of Upholstery Warranty: Many upholstery manufacturers provide warranties or guarantees for their products. However, these warranties often require proper care and maintenance, including stain removal, to remain valid. By promptly addressing stains and following the recommended cleaning procedures, you ensure that your upholstery warranty remains intact, providing you with peace of mind and potential coverage for any unforeseen damage.

Understanding Upholstery Fabrics:

Before diving into stain removal techniques, it’s important to understand the type of fabric used in your upholstery. Different fabrics require different cleaning methods to avoid damage. Check the manufacturer’s label or consult a professional to determine the fabric content and any specific cleaning instructions. Common upholstery fabrics include:

Cotton: Durable and versatile, but prone to wrinkling and fading.
Linen: Lightweight and breathable, but may stain easily.
Wool: Luxurious and resilient, but requires extra care to prevent shrinkage.
Silk: Delicate and luxurious, best cleaned by professionals.
Polyester: Durable and resistant to wrinkles and fading.
Microfiber: Stain-resistant and easy to clean, but may require specific cleaning products.

General Stain Removal Tips:

Regardless of the type of stain or fabric, there are some general tips to keep in mind when removing stains from upholstery:

Act Quickly: The sooner you address a stain, the easier it will be to remove.
Blot, Don’t Rub: Always blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
Test on an Inconspicuous Area: Before applying any cleaning solution, test it on a hidden part of the upholstery to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
Use Gentle Cleaning Solutions: Start with mild cleaning solutions and gradually increase the strength if needed. Harsh chemicals can damage the fabric.
Work from the Outer Edge Inward: When applying cleaning solutions or blotting the stain, work from the outer edge toward the center to prevent spreading the stain further.

Now, let’s explore specific stain removal techniques for different types of stains.

Water-Based Stains:

Water-based stains include coffee, tea, wine, juice, and water-based ink stains. Here are some techniques to tackle these common water-based stains:

1. Coffee and Tea Stains:

Blot up the excess liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water.
Gently sponge the stained area with the solution, being careful not to oversaturate the fabric.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

For stubborn coffee or tea stains, you can try the following alternative method:

Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the stain.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the paste.
Repeat the process if necessary.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

2. Wine and Juice Stains:

Blot up the excess liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

If the stain persists, you can try the following alternative method:

Mix a small amount of hydrogen peroxide with a mild detergent.
Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
Blot the stain with a clean cloth to lift the color.
Rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Repeat the process if needed.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.How to remove stains from upholstery

3. Water-Based Ink Stains:

Blot up any excess ink with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not rub the stain, as it may spread.
Apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) to a clean cloth.
Gently dab the stained area with the cloth, starting from the outer edge and working toward the center.
Continue blotting until the stain is lifted.
Rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

For stubborn ink stains, you can try using an ink stain remover specifically designed for upholstery. Follow the product instructions carefully to avoid damaging the fabric.

Read Also: How To Do Basic Home Repairs

4. Oil-Based Stains:

Oil-based stains include grease, oil, food, lipstick, and makeup stains. These stains require a different approach for effective removal. Here are some methods to tackle oil-based stains:

a. Grease and Oil Stains:

Scrape off any excess grease or oil gently using a spoon or a blunt knife.
Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda or cornstarch onto the stain to absorb the oil.
Let the powder sit on the stain for 15-20 minutes.
Vacuum or brush away the powder.
If the stain persists, mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water.
Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently dab the stained area.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

b. Food Stains:

Gently scrape off any excess food particles with a spoon or a blunt knife.
Mix a solution of mild detergent and warm water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently blot the stained area.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

If the food stain is particularly stubborn or has dried on the upholstery, you can try the following alternative method:

Create a paste by mixing equal parts baking soda and water.
Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Gently scrub the stain with a soft brush or cloth.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the paste.
Repeat the process if necessary.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

c. Lipstick and Makeup Stains:

Scrape off any excess lipstick or makeup with a spoon or a blunt knife.
Dampen a clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol).
Gently dab the stained area with the cloth, starting from the outer edge and working toward the center.
Continue blotting until the stain is lifted.
Rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
If the stain persists, mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently blot the stain.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

4. Protein-Based Stains:

Protein-based stains include blood, urine, and vomit stains. These stains require special attention to prevent setting and lingering odors. Here’s how to tackle them effectively:

1. Blood Stains:

Blot up any excess blood with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mix a small amount of enzyme-based laundry detergent with cold water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
If the stain persists, mix a solution of hydrogen peroxide and cold water (1:1 ratio).
Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently dab the stain.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

2. Urine and Vomit Stains:

Blot up any excess urine or vomit with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
If the stain persists, mix a small amount of enzyme-based cleaner with warm water.
Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for the recommended time.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Repeat the process if needed.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

5. Other Common Stains:

Apart from water-based and oil-based stains, there are other common stains you may encounter on upholstery. Here are some additional techniques to address them:

1. Ink Stains:

Blot up any excess ink with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not rub the stain.
Spray a small amount of hairspray onto a clean cloth.
Gently dab the stained area with the cloth, starting from the outer edge and working toward the center.
Continue blotting until the ink is lifted.
Rinse the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

If the ink stain persists, it’s recommended to consult a professional upholstery cleaner.

2. Pet Stains:

Blot up any excess urine, vomit, or feces with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area.

Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
If the stain and odor persist, you can use an enzyme-based pet stain remover specifically designed for upholstery.
Follow the product instructions carefully and apply the remover to the stain.
Allow the remover to sit for the recommended time.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Repeat the process if necessary.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

3. Mold and Mildew Stains:

For mold and mildew stains, it’s important to address the underlying cause, such as excessive moisture or poor ventilation. Once the cause is resolved, you can tackle the stains.
Vacuum the upholstery to remove any loose spores.
Mix a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar.
Apply the solution to a clean cloth and gently dab the stained area.
Allow the vinegar solution to sit on the stain for a few minutes.
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the stain.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
If the stain persists, you can use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:1 ratio).
Apply the peroxide solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to rinse.
Repeat the process if needed.
Allow the upholstery to air dry.

It’s worth noting that severe mold and mildew infestations on upholstery may require professional cleaning to ensure thorough removal and prevent further damage.

6. General Stain Removal Techniques:

In addition to the specific stain removal techniques mentioned above, there are some general tips and techniques to keep in mind:

1. Blotting:

When dealing with stains, always remember to blot rather than rub. Blotting helps to absorb the stain without spreading it further. Use a clean cloth, paper towel, or sponge and gently press down on the stain to lift the liquid or residue.

2. Testing on an Inconspicuous Area:

Before applying any cleaning solution or method, it’s important to test it on an inconspicuous area of the upholstery. This will help ensure that the solution doesn’t cause discoloration, fabric damage, or any adverse reactions.

3. Working from the Outer Edge Inward:

When treating stains, work from the outer edge toward the center. This prevents the stain from spreading and helps to contain the damage. By gradually moving inward, you can minimize the size and visibility of the stain.

4. Using Gentle Cleaning Solutions:

Start with mild cleaning solutions and gradually increase the strength if necessary. Harsh chemicals can damage upholstery fabrics, so it’s best to opt for gentle and natural solutions whenever possible. Always follow the instructions provided with any cleaning products or solutions.

7. Professional Upholstery Cleaning:

While many stains can be successfully removed using the techniques mentioned above, there may be instances where professional upholstery cleaning is necessary. Professional cleaners have specialized equipment and knowledge to effectively clean and restore upholstery, especially for delicate fabrics or severe stains. If you’re unsure or hesitant about tackling a particular stain, consulting a professional cleaner is a wise choice.

8. Preventive Measures to Protect Upholstery:

Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several preventive measures you can take to protect your upholstery from stains:

Use removable and washable covers on your furniture.
Keep food and drinks away from upholstered surfaces.
Establish clear rules for pets to avoid accidents on furniture.
Avoid smoking indoors to prevent nicotine stains.
Clean spills and accidents promptly.
Regularly vacuum and dust upholstery to prevent dirt buildup.
Use fabric protectors or sprays specifically designed for upholstery.

Read Also: How To Clean A Clogged Drain

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use bleach to remove stains from upholstery?

Bleach is a strong chemical that can damage upholstery fabrics. It’s best to avoid using bleach unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer or a professional cleaner.

How often should I clean my upholstery?

The frequency of cleaning depends on the level of usage and the specific needs of your upholstery. Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning can help maintain cleanliness. For a deeper clean, consider professional cleaning every 1-2 years or as needed.

Can I use a steam cleaner on upholstery?

Steam cleaners can be used on upholstery, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific upholstery fabric. Some fabrics may not be suitable for steam cleaning and could be damaged by the heat and moisture.

What should I do if I’m unsure about cleaning a specific stain?

If you’re uncertain about the appropriate cleaning method or concerned about potential damage, it’s best to consult a professional upholstery cleaner. They can assess the stain and provide expert guidance on the best course of action.

Conclusion

Removing stains from upholstery requires a careful approach and the right techniques for different types of stains. By understanding the fabric of your upholstery, following general stain removal tips, and utilizing specific methods for water-based, oil-based, protein-based, and other common stains, you can effectively restore the beauty of your upholstery. Remember to act quickly, blot gently, and test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area before proceeding. If in doubt, professional upholstery cleaning is always a reliable option. With proper care and preventive measures, you can keep your upholstery looking clean, fresh, and stain-free for years to come.