How to Care for Your Upholstered Furniture: Tips from a New Jersey Interior Designer
Upholstered furniture plays a central role in the comfort and character of your home. Whether it’s a custom sofa in your living room or upholstered chairs in your dining area, proper care ensures these pieces stay beautiful and functional for years to come. At Surroundings Interiors, as leading interior designers in New Jersey, we often guide clients on how to maintain their furnishings—especially when it comes to upholstery.
Below, we share expert tips for everyday care and offer specific guidance on cleaning your upholstery. For high-performance fabrics like Sunbrella®, please read our FAQs on Sunbrella Care. Whether your pieces are crafted with traditional textiles or indoor-outdoor materials, the principles of proper care remain the same: protect, clean as directed, and maintain regularly.
Everyday Upholstery Care Tips
To extend the life and appearance of your upholstered furniture, follow these essential tips:
1. Vacuum Regularly
Dust, pet hair, and debris settle quickly into fibers. Use a soft brush attachment to vacuum your upholstery weekly, paying close attention to seams and crevices.
2. Know Your Fabric’s Cleaning Code
Each fabric comes with a specific cleaning code (W, S, WS, or X) that dictates what products and methods are safe to use. Refer to your furniture’s tag or consult your designer to ensure you're cleaning correctly.
3. Spot Clean with Care
For minor stains and appropriate cleaning codes, use a mild detergent and water solution. Always test in an inconspicuous area first. Blot stains gently—never rub—as rubbing can cause the stain to spread or damage the fibers.
4. Rotate and Flip Cushions
Even wear is key to keeping your furniture looking and feeling balanced. Rotate and flip cushions regularly to avoid impressions and sagging.
5. Shield High-Use Areas
Arm covers, throws, and decorative blankets are more than accents—they protect your furniture from oils, spills, and everyday wear.
6. Limit Direct Sunlight Exposure
Over time, sun can fade fabric and weaken fibers. Keep upholstery out of direct sunlight, or use window treatments that filter UV rays.
7. Professional Deep Cleaning
For delicate fabrics, persistent stains, or annual refreshes, trust a professional upholstery cleaning service. This is especially important for custom pieces where materials may require a gentle touch.
Why Upholstery Care Matters
Your home is a reflection of how you live. Caring for your upholstered pieces not only preserves their aesthetic appeal—it also supports their structure and comfort. We design with intention, curating furnishings that are both beautiful and resilient. Proper maintenance protects that investment and ensures your home continues to feel just right.
Whether seeking care tips for a newly installed sofa or considering custom upholstered furnishings, we're here to help you design, and live beautifully.
Need help with selecting or maintaining upholstered furniture?
Contact Surroundings Interiors—your trusted interior designer in New Jersey—for tailored guidance, cleaning recommendations, or to explore our curated selection of durable, design-forward textiles.