Fabric Care

Upholstery Fabric Cleaning Code Labels

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.

The code is as follows:

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 over-wetting.

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.

Here are some general rules to follow in caring for your fabric:

Vacuum or brush away loose dirt before it becomes embedded in the fabric.

Clean Up Spills and stains right away. The longer soil and stains stay on the fabric, the harder they are to remove.

Tips for Velvet Upholstery: Spot clean with a water-free dry cleaning product, wiping in the direction of the pile (so the pile lays down). When the fabric is dry, brush gently with a suede brush, first against, then with the pile.

Note: Before treating any stain, test the appropriate stain-removing product (including water, if you plan to use it) on a hidden area to make certain the fabric and color will not be damaged by the process.