Upholstery Care Guide
Enjoy your new furniture for years (and years) to come with these helpful cleaning and care tips.
Maintenance & In-Home Care
Vacuum & Brush Frequently
Use a soft, dry upholstery brush to loosen and remove surface dirt, then vacuum to remove dust. Always use the brush attachment to prevent fabric damage. Use an upholstery brush in the direction of the pile to restore the loft and uniformity of high-pile fabric.
Cushion Care
Cushions require occasional fluffing to restore their shape and natural loft. Fluff and smooth the inserts, and flip and rotate the cushions periodically to increase longevity. We do not recommend removing cushion casings for laundering. This can damage the fabric, and it also can be tricky to fit them back onto the cushions.
Keep It Safe
Protect from heat, sunlight, and liquids. To keep your upholstery in optimal condition, avoid placing it in direct sunlight. If spills occur, blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Spot Cleaning
Overview
As a general rule, spot cleaning is not recommended as it can cause fading. It’s best to professionally clean the entire piece to ensure the color remains uniform.
Codes
Your professional upholstery cleaning company will need the fabric's cleaning code. Please reference our fabric guide for your furniture's upholstery cleaning code.
S (Solvent Only)
Instruct a professional cleaning service to use pure, water-free solvents. Petroleum distillate-based products may be also used.
SW (Solvent & Water)
Instruct a professional cleaning service to use water-based cleaning agents, foam, or pure solvents.
Velvet
Briar Floral Velvet
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Margot Floral Velvet
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Porto Performance Velvet by JB Martin
Most damp stains can be blotted or wiped away with a damp cloth or paper towel. For general spot cleaning, rub the affected area with a damp cloth or sponge using a 1:10 solution of dish soap and water. Start from the outer edge of the stain, working your way toward the center. As the velvet dries, realign the fibers in the same direction by brushing them gently with an upholstery brush.
Slub Velvet by JB Martin
As soon as spills happen, soak them up with paper towels or a soft cloth. For more persistent stains, mix a 1:10 solution of dish soap and water, then agitate vigorously until suds form. Use a soft cloth to apply only the suds to the stained area. Blot with a clean cloth to remove the remaining stain and any residue from the suds. Allow the area to dry completely, then brush the surface of the fabric to restore the nap. Allowing stains to set on velvet affects the appearance and durability of the material. Food residue left on the fabric causes it to weaken which detracts from its beauty. When blotting stains, avoid excessive pressure as this can push the stain further into the fibers. A steamer can be used on a low setting to restore the luster and shine of velvet. However, the steamer should never be in direct contact with your furniture. Always keep it moving in the direction of the nap. JB Martin slub velvet is a uniquely constructed and finished fabric developed to emulate the look of antique silk velvet. Because the rayon pile is highly sensitive to moisture, it can incur permanent damage when exposed to excessive humidity, dampness, or heavy pressure. Marking or pressure marks after sitting are normal and will generally recover with time and natural humidity. Some slight bruises or marks may never fully disappear; this should be considered an enhancement to your furniture.
Sutton Velvet
Treat stains immediately for the best results. Blot up as much of the spill as possible with a clean, dry, white cloth, taking care not to rub. Apply a small amount of cleaner to the stain and gently agitate it with your fingertips. Avoid over-saturation, which can damage the fabric backing or the cushions. Blot the stain with a clean, dry, white cloth, working from the outer edge toward the center of the stain. If your spot cleaner recommends a water rinse, apply a small amount of distilled water to the stained area, and blot to remove. Do not use tap water, as it may stain or discolor the fabric due to its mineral content. Use a hair dryer on the lowest heat setting to evenly dry the fabric and prevent moisture rings.
Valencia Velvet
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Velvet by JB Martin
As soon as spills happen, soak them up with paper towels or a soft cloth. For more persistent stains, mix a 1:10 solution of dish soap and water, then agitate vigorously until suds form. Use a soft cloth to apply only the suds to the stained area. Blot with a clean cloth to remove the remaining stain and any residue from the suds. Allow the area to dry completely, then brush the surface of the fabric to restore the nap. Allowing stains to set on velvet affects the appearance and durability of the material. Food residue left on the fabric causes it to weaken which detracts from its beauty. When blotting stains, avoid excessive pressure as this can push the stain further into the fibers. A steamer can be used on a low setting to restore the luster and shine of velvet. However, the steamer should never be in direct contact with your furniture. Always keep it moving in the direction of the nap. Marking or pressure marks after sitting are normal and will generally recover with time and natural humidity. Some slight bruises or marks may never fully disappear; this should be considered an enhancement to your furniture.
Linens
Basketweave Linen
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Belgian Linen by Libeco
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Linen
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Montauk Performance Linen
For general spot cleaning, use a 1:10 solution of mild dish soap and water. Rinse with fresh water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. For stubborn stains, we recommend repeating the process with a mild solution of Oxi-Clean™.
Performance Linen by Perennials
A stain-repellent finish provides long-lasting protection that endures repeated washing. In addition, liquids will bead on the surface of the fabric for easy cleaning. For general spot cleaning, blot excess liquids with a soft, clean cloth or sponge. Gently dab the spot to remove the remainder of the stain. For more stubborn stains, apply a natural soap or mild detergent to a clean cloth and rub gently. Rinse with clean water and allow to air-dry. Chlorine bleach will not affect the coloration of solution-dyed acrylic fiber and can be used to remove stubborn stains. Because harsh detergents affect the strength of any fiber, a diluted 1:20 solution of bleach to water is recommended. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
Valencia Linen
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Wovens
Amira Weave
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Boucle Weave
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Byron Weave
To spot clean light or medium stains, blot surface liquids with a clean, soft towel and brush off any loose dirt. Prepare a cleaning solution of 1/4 teaspoon mild enzyme detergent (such as standard dish soap) per 1 cup of lukewarm water. Apply the solution using a misting spray bottle, then work it into the affected area by lightly scrubbing with a sponge or soft upholstery brush. Make sure to work from the outside of the stain inward so as not to spread the stain, and rinse your sponge or brush frequently. Allow the solution to soak into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and blot excess moisture with a clean, soft towel or sponge. Repeat the cleaning process as needed, and allow fabric to air dry. To spot clean stubborn stains, follow the same process with a diluted 1:4 solution of bleach and water.
Canvas by Sunbrella
To spot clean, prepare a solution of 1/4 cup mild soap per 1 gallon of lukewarm water. Use an upholstery brush to clean, allowing the solution to soak into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and allow the fabric to air dry. Sunbrella canvas does not promote mildew growth, however, mildew may grow on dirt and other substances that remain on the fabric. To remove mold or mildew, prepare a solution of 1 cup bleach and 1/4 cup mild soap per 1 gallon of water. Spray onto the entire area and allow it to soak into the fabric for 15 minutes. Clean the area with a sponge, clean towel, or an upholstery brush. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue and allow the fabric to air dry. For severe mold or mildew, the bleach quantity may be increased. It is best to clean the entire surface area of the fabric to avoid water rings and stains. Avoid scrubbing, hard-bristled brushes, or other abrasive cleaning methods. If the fabric is wrinkled, use an iron on the synthetic setting. As iron temperatures may vary, test an inconspicuous area before ironing the entire piece. Do not use the steam setting of the iron or a traditional steamer on this fabric.
Chenille
For general spot cleaning, use a mild solvent, upholstery shampoo, or the foam from a mild detergent. When using a solvent or dry-cleaning product, follow the instructions carefully and clean only in a well-ventilated room.
Chunky Basketweave
Before spot cleaning, blot up liquids on the surface with a soft, clean towel and brush off any loose dirt. Prepare a cleaning solution of 1/4 teaspoon mild enzyme detergent (such as standard liquid dish soap) per 1 cup of lukewarm water. Apply the cleaning solution using a misting spray bottle. Work the solution into the affected area by lightly scrubbing with a sponge or a soft-bristled brush. Make sure to work inward from the outside of the stain and rinse your sponge or brush frequently. Allow the cleaning solution to soak into the fabric. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as residues will attract dirt. Blot excess moisture with a clean, soft towel or sponge. Repeat as needed. Allow fabric to air-dry.
Crosshatch Weave
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Deighton Weave
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Diamond Fan Chenille
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Hayden Dotted Weave
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Piece-Dyed Weave
When cleaning a spill, blot immediately to remove spilled liquid. Do not use solvents to spot clean. Spot clean only with water-based shampoo or a foaming upholstery cleaner. Test a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding. Clean spots or stains from the outer edge to the center of the affected area to prevent circling. Hot-water extraction or steam cleaning is not recommended.
Quinn Houndstooth
When cleaning a spill, blot immediately to remove the spilled liquid. Do not use solvents to spot clean. Spot clean only with a water-based shampoo or a foaming upholstery cleaner. Test a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding. Clean spots or stains from the outside to the center of the affected area to prevent circling. Hot-water extraction or steam cleaning is not recommended.
Sherpa
We recommend consulting a professional upholstery cleaner on how to best maintain this fabric.
Wool
Performance Wool
For general spot cleaning, use a 1:10 solution of mild dish soap and water; rinse with fresh water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. For stubborn stains, we recommend repeating the process with a mild solution of Oxi-Clean™.
Leather Care
Dust Periodically
Use a dry cloth to remove residual dust and prevent dirt build-up. Dust absorbs moisture and will cause your leather to dry out and crack.
Avoid Sunlight
If possible, avoid placing leather furniture in direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight will eventually cause leather to fade.
Smooth Out Scratches
If you find an undesired scratch in your leather, use the heat of your hand to smooth it out. The natural waxes and oils in our natural leathers will shift and move to cover the scratch.
Spot Clean Spills & Stains
Blot the stain immediately with a dry cloth to absorb all moisture. Avoid rubbing and spreading the liquid. Do not use harsh cleaners or solvents, as they could abrade the finish or topcoat. For more stubborn stains, we recommend a 3:1 solution of dish soap and water to spot clean. Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents. Keep in mind, the stain will look its worst on the day of the incident, but over time, it will disperse through the protein fibers of the hide and eventually become part of the look.
Condition Your Leather
Conditioners can be used to maintain your leather's natural oils, keeping it soft and supple for many years. Specially formulated conditioners can be used to rejuvenate fine leather surfaces, however, some leathers are inherently sensitive so these products should be spot tested before overall use.
For Nubuck Leather: Do not use hair dryers, saddle soaps, oils, abrasives, cleaners, furniture polish, varnish, or ammonia-water. The leather has already been permanently preserved in the tanning process and needs no maintenance other than the simple recommended cleaning.
For Nubuck Leather: Do not use hair dryers, saddle soaps, oils, abrasives, cleaners, furniture polish, varnish, or ammonia-water. The leather has already been permanently preserved in the tanning process and needs no maintenance other than the simple recommended cleaning.
Learn More
We're proud to offer a selection of premium, beautifully crafted leathers. Consult our guide for information about leather grades, finishes, and characteristics.