Upholstered furniture brings comfort, warmth, and personality to a home — whether it’s a plush sofa in the living room, a cosy armchair in the study, or upholstered dining chairs around the table. But while these pieces are often at the heart of daily life, they can also be magnets for dust, stains, pet hair, and odours.
So, how often should you actually clean your upholstery? The answer depends on how you use it — but with a simple cleaning routine, you can keep your furniture looking its best and extend its lifespan.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why Upholstery Cleaning Matters
Upholstered furniture is more than just a visual centrepiece. It’s something you use every day, and it quietly absorbs a lot — body oils, food crumbs, sweat, allergens, and airborne dust.
Regular cleaning helps to:
- Keep furniture looking fresh and inviting
- Extend the life of the fabric
- Improve air quality in your home
- Prevent allergens and bacteria from building up
General Cleaning Frequency Guide
Here’s a simple breakdown of how often you should clean different parts of your upholstery:
1. Light Surface Cleaning: Weekly
- Vacuum your upholstery using a brush attachment to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair.
- Pay extra attention to crevices, armrests, and under the cushions.
- Plump and rotate cushions regularly to maintain shape and even wear.
Tip: Use a lint roller or fabric brush for a quick once-over in between vacuuming.
2. Spot Cleaning: As Needed
- Deal with spills and stains as soon as they happen — the quicker you act, the better the outcome.
- Blot (don’t rub!) liquid stains with a clean cloth and use a fabric-safe cleaner or a mix of mild detergent and water.
Note: Always patch-test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first to avoid damaging the fabric.
3. Deep Cleaning: Every 6–12 Months
- Depending on usage and household conditions, aim to deep-clean your upholstered furniture at least once or twice a year.
- This can be done with a home upholstery cleaner or by hiring a professional service for a thorough steam or shampoo clean.
High-traffic pieces, such as your main sofa, may need more frequent attention (every 6 months), while rarely used furniture can be cleaned once a year.
Households with Pets or Allergies
If you have pets or allergy sufferers at home, you’ll want to step up your cleaning routine.
- Vacuum: 2–3 times per week
- Deep Clean: Every 3–6 months
- Use fabric sprays or deodorisers to combat pet odours and dander
Top Tip: Consider using washable throws or covers on frequently used furniture to make maintenance easier and protect the upholstery underneath.
Signs Your Upholstery Needs Cleaning
Not sure if it’s time for a deep clean? Look out for these signs:
- Visible stains or dark patches
- A musty or stale smell
- Dull or faded appearance
- Increased allergy symptoms at home
- A sticky or greasy feel to the fabric
Choosing the Right Cleaning Method
Always check the care label on your furniture. It usually includes a code indicating what cleaning methods are safe:
- W: Water-based cleaning is safe
- S: Solvent-based cleaner only
- WS: Either water-based or solvent-based is fine
- X: Professional cleaning only — no water or solvent
If in doubt, call in the professionals — especially for expensive or delicate fabrics like velvet, silk, or antique upholstery.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your upholstery clean doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With regular vacuuming, prompt spot treatment, and periodic deep cleans, you can keep your furniture looking (and smelling) its best for years to come.
Think of upholstery cleaning like skincare for your home — a little attention goes a long way, and your furniture will thank you for it.
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