How should you clean a fabric seat? The Complete Guide!

With so many years of service, we can clearly say that seats are just like our clothes. They act like a sponge, collecting bodily fluids, dirt, grime and dust deep within the fibers, where harmful bacteria accumulate and spread everywhere. You can't wear the same clothes month after month without washing them, so why treat your sofa any differently? You will be shocked to see what comes out of a seemingly clean seat.

When you get home, you probably want to be able to relax in your sofa. Unfortunately, this is not always possible, especially if your fabric seat is dirty. The truth is that if you do it yourself, there is a high risk of permanently damaging your seat. ProCleanDetailing is a company specialized in professional seat cleaning, which can help you clean your corner sofa or armchair accurately down to every detail. While we don't encourage you to do it yourself, we understand the budget constraints when it comes to hiring a company.

We explain how to clean a fabric seat and what you should pay attention to. This is not only more hygienic for you, but is also a lot more pleasant to sit in. We also give out tips on how to best clean your seat. This way you can enjoy your well-deserved rest.

Why should you use the right cleaning products for your sofa? 

When you clean your seat, it is important that this is done properly. A small mistake when cleaning your seat can have catastrophic consequences. If you use the wrong product to clean your seat, you can damage your fabric seat. That is why it is important to do very thorough research before cleaning your seat. You want to be sure that the product you are going to use is suitable for your fabric sofa. If you want to clean your seat yourself, it is essential that you use a good product.

What should you pay attention to when cleaning a seat? 

You should start cleaning a fabric seat by finding out the exact type of fabric your seat is made of. This is the first step that will help you determine which cleaning methods and agents to use for different stains. Study the label of your fabric or suede sofa before you begin cleaning.

If you really want to remove stains from your fabric sofa, you need a deep cleaning machine necessary. These deep cleaning cleaning machines can help you clean the surface of your fabric sofa by combining water and detergent. These machines are not strong enough and are quite expensive. Therefore, for a thorough cleaning, it is better to call in a professional service. In addition, professional cleaning companies also have more knowledge about removing stains, the material and how to thoroughly clean your fabric seat. 

What steps should I take to clean my fabric sofa? 

As we said before, it is mainly possible for a private individual to clean the surface of a seat. For a deeper cleaning, it is important to call in a professional. When cleaning the surface of a seat, there are a few steps you can take to do it right: 

1. Start with a vacuum

   When you want to start cleaning your sofa, it is best to start by vacuuming the surface. This ensures that you can remove some of the dirt and dust particles.
   
   

2. Read the label

   • The upholstery cleaning codes consist of five categories: W, S, WS, X and D.
   • W indicates that a wet cleaning method is required.
   • S indicates the use of a solvent-based approach.
   • WS combines wet and solvent cleaning techniques.
   • X only recommends vacuuming as a method.
   • D is for dry cleaning only.
     
     

3. Use a cleaning agent and warm water

   Afterwards you need a mild cleaning agent to use. It is important to find this out carefully, as some substances can react incorrectly to the wrong cleaning agent. Then use warm water to treat surface stains.
   
   It is recommended to use a carpet cleaning machine for better results. Some of these machines have an injection system that allows you to spray water with the cleaning solution directly onto the sofa. Then the suction system built into the machine will suck the dirty water from your sofa.
   
   

4. Pat gently

   Once the warm water has been absorbed a little, you should very carefully dab the stains on your fabric seat with a microfiber cloth. Rub gently to avoid damage to your fabric seat.
   
   

5. Test it out first

   Always test a small, inconspicuous area on your fabric seat first. Sometimes the use of the wrong cleaning agent may discolour the seat. Starting with a small inconspicuous area can help prevent this.
   
   

6. Make sure the seat is completely dry

   When all of the above has gone well, you should let the seat dry. The best way to do this is to keep your windows open to prevent mold.

Why is it important that you regularly maintain your fabric sofa? 

It is important that your fabric seat lasts as long as possible, which is why it is also important that it is properly maintained. By regularly cleaning your fabric seat you have a greater chance of a longer lifespan. You can give the fabric seat a longer lifespan by washing it regularly or calling in a professional every 6 months. 

Is it safe to clean my seat myself? 

If you do not know how to clean a fabric seat yourself, it is important that you take safety measures. Many of the cleaning products sold online use harmful substances. 

Especially if you have children or pets, you should take all safety precautions when cleaning a fabric seat.

Therefore, make sure you wear suitable gloves to prevent a rash or a chemical reaction on your hands. Your home should also have good ventilation when cleaning your fabric sofa, so that you don't inhale all the chemical odors. 

Why is it important to use a professional service? 

There are many different reasons why it is important to use a professional service to clean your seats. As you may have noticed, there is a lot that can go wrong when cleaning your fabric seats. Professionals have the knowledge and years of experience in cleaning different types of seats, and know how to clean fabric, suede and even leather seats.  

They have also undergone the latest training so you don't have to worry about ruining your furniture. It has happened before that someone makes a stain bigger due to incorrect cleaning. There are many things involved in properly cleaning fabric seats. That's why a professional seat cleaning service knows exactly how to clean your fabric seats.