Fabric Upholstery Care Guide
Caring for Your Upholstered Furniture
Quality fabrics and fine materials bring lasting comfort when cared for properly. Our guide offers general advice to help preserve the beauty and lifespan of your pieces.
Note: As fabrics, fillings, and finishes vary by manufacturer, always follow the specific care instructions supplied with your product for warranty coverage.
Understanding Upholstery Fabrics
One of the pleasures of choosing upholstered furniture is the variety of fabrics available, each with its own distinct texture, appearance, and maintenance needs.
Whether selecting natural fibers, synthetic blends, or high-performance textiles, keep in mind that every material ages and wears uniquely over time.
Different Types of Fabric
Many upholstery fabrics incorporate natural fibres such as:
- Cotton – Soft, versatile, and widely used. Expect a gentle softening with use and some fading if exposed to prolonged sunlight.
- Linen – Relaxed, elegant appearance and natural texture. Expect natural creasing and slight variations in weave and texture. These are normal characteristics and contribute to linen's appeal.
- Wool – Hard-wearing, naturally insulating, and resistant to everyday wear. Expect natural texture variation and occasional pilling in some wool blends.
- Velvet – Luxurious and elegant look with smooth feel and light-reflective finish. Expect pressure marks, shading effects, and variations in pile direction. These are natural features of velvet and not defects.
- Chenille – Soft, luxurious feel and comfortable for everyday use. Expect pile flattening in areas of regular use and natural shading.
Fabric Care Recommendations
✓ Do
Everyday Care
- ✓ Vacuum upholstery weekly using a soft upholstery attachment
- ✓ Remove dust and debris from seams and crevices
- ✓ Maintain a clean environment to reduce dust build-up
Spillages & Cleaning
- ✓ Follow the cleaning guidance provided for your specific fabric
- ✓ Blot immediately using a clean, dry cloth
- ✓ Absorb as much liquid as possible
- ✓ Work from the outside of the spill inward
- ✓ Consider professional upholstery cleaning for significant staining
- ✓ Always test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first
✕ Don't
Everyday Care
- ✕ Don't position furniture directly beside heat sources
- ✕ Don't allow prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
- ✕ Don't place furniture in areas subject to excessive heat or moisture
- ✕ Be careful of sharp objects like belt buckles, jewellery, toys, keys, and pet claws
- ✕ Don't pull or snag loose threads. Carefully trim them with scissors instead
Spillages & Cleaning
- ✕ Don't rub or scrub the area
- ✕ Avoid using household detergents, bleach, solvents, abrasive cleaners, and excessive moisture
- ✕ Don't apply direct heat (like a hairdryer or iron) to dry a wet spot quickly
Understanding Cushion Fillings
The comfort and character of a sofa or chair is largely determined by its cushion filling. Different fillings will settle and respond to use in different ways.
- Foam cushions: Supportive and maintain shape well. May slightly soften during the settling period.
- Fibre cushions: Soft, durable, and offer a more relaxed appearance. Require regular plumping to maintain shape.
- Feather & Feather Blend Cushions: Ultra-soft and comfortable. Require regular plumping and dressing.
- Foam & Fibre Combination Cushions: Supportive, soft, and offer good shape retention. Benefit from occasional plumping and repositioning.
Everyday Cushion Care
✓ Do
- ✓ Plump cushions regularly
- ✓ Rotate loose and reversible cushions where possible
- ✓ Smooth and dress cushions after use
- ✓ Vary seating positions to distribute wear evenly
- ✓ Maintain cushions as part of your normal furniture care routine
- ✓ View our care videos for additional visual guidance where available
✕ Don't
- ✕ Sit on sofa arms, backs, or the very edges of cushions
- ✕ Stand or kneel on cushions
- ✕ Apply concentrated weight to one area repeatedly
- ✕ Continuously use the same seating position where alternatives are available
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