A stained sofa is one of the most common cleaning frustrations we hear about from clients. Before reaching for random household products, here's a safer approach that works for most everyday stains.
Step-by-step for fresh stains
- Blot, don't rub. Use a clean, dry cloth to blot up as much of the spill as possible. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into the fibers.
- Check the fabric care label. Most upholstery has a code (W, S, WS, or X) indicating what cleaning agents are safe to use.
- Test any solution on a hidden area first. Try a small spot on the back or underside of a cushion before applying it to the visible stain.
- Use a mild solution. For water-safe (W) fabrics, a small amount of mild dish soap diluted in water is usually enough for light stains.
- Work from the outside in. This stops the stain from spreading further across the fabric.
- Let it air dry fully before sitting on it or covering it, to avoid trapping moisture in the cushion.
When to call a professional instead
Older, set-in stains, unknown fabric types, or anything on a delicate or expensive piece of furniture are best left to professional upholstery cleaning. Using the wrong product on the wrong fabric can set a stain permanently or damage the material. If a stain isn't lifting with the steps above, it's usually time to bring in a professional rather than risk the fabric.
We offer dedicated upholstery cleaning across Lagos, including our detailed guide for sofa and upholstery cleaning in Ajah. Reach out and we'll assess the fabric and stain before recommending the right approach.