How to Remove Stubborn Stains from Your Upholstery Fabric

Upholstery fabric enhances the elegance of any furniture, but spills and stains can disrupt its beauty. While everyday stains are manageable, stubborn ones require special care and attention. At Saint and Poet, we design luxury printed upholstery fabrics that are not only beautiful but also resilient, offering features like stain resistance to make maintenance easier.

Follow this step-by-step guide to restore your fabric’s original allure without compromising its quality.

Step 1: Act Quickly

The sooner you address a spill, the easier it will be to remove. Blot the area gently with a clean, white cloth to absorb excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain or push it deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Identify the Stain Type

Knowing the source of the stain helps you choose the right cleaning method. Here are some common culprits:

• Food and drink spills: Coffee, wine, or grease.

• Pet accidents: Urine, vomit, or dirt.

• Ink or dye: Pen marks or transfer from other materials.

Step 3: Spot-Test Your Cleaning Solution

Always test your cleaner on an inconspicuous part of the fabric before treating the stain. Saint and Poet’s high-performance fabrics, made from a linen-cotton-nylon blend, are designed to withstand cleaning agents, but testing ensures no unintended damage occurs.

Step 4: Apply the Right Cleaning Method

For Water-Based Stains (e.g., juice, coffee):

• Mix a mild detergent with warm water.

• Dampen a cloth with the solution and blot the stain gently.

• Rinse with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.

For Oil-Based Stains (e.g., grease, makeup):

• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain to absorb excess oil.

• After 15 minutes, vacuum the area.

• Use a solvent-based cleaner suitable for upholstery to treat any remaining residue.

For Tough Stains (e.g., ink, red wine):

• Consider professional cleaning or use a specialized stain remover.

• Saint and Poet fabrics’ stain repellant treatment ensures easier removal of even the most persistent stains.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry Carefully

After treating the stain, use a clean, damp cloth to blot away any remaining cleaner. Avoid soaking the fabric, as excess water can lead to shrinkage or watermarks. Allow the fabric to air dry completely before use.

Preventing Future Stains

Prevention is always better than cure. Protect your furniture with the following tips:

• Fabric treatments: Opt for Saint and Poet’s stain and soil treatments to keep your fabrics shielded from spills.

• Cushion rotation: Evenly distribute wear and exposure to potential stains.

• Quick response: Address spills as soon as they occur to avoid permanent damage. 

Removing stubborn stains doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and the durable qualities of Saint and Poet’s upholstery fabrics, your furniture can remain as stunning as the day it was upholstered. For more tips on fabric care or to explore our collection, visit Saint and Poet Upholstery Fabrics.