How to Remove Stains from Upholstery: A Comprehensive Guide

Water-based stains are caused by liquids that contain water, such as coffee, tea, juice, soda, milk, beer, and wine. They are usually easier to remove than oil-based stains, but they can still leave a mark if not treated properly.

Here are the steps to remove water-based stains from quick upholstery cleaning:

• Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel as soon as possible. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
• Mix one tablespoon of dish soap with two cups of cold water in a spray bottle or a bowl.
• Spray or dab the solution onto the stain and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Blot the stain again with a clean cloth or paper towel until it is gone.
• Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• If the stain is still visible, repeat the process with a stronger solution of one part white vinegar and two parts water.
• If the stain is stubborn, you may need to use a commercial upholstery cleaner or an enzyme-based cleaner that can break down organic stains. Follow the instructions on the product label and test it on a hidden area first.
  

Oil-based stains are caused by liquids that contain oil, such as cooking oil, salad dressing, butter, grease, lipstick, makeup, and nail polish. They are harder to remove than water-based stains, as they tend to stick to the fabric and leave a greasy residue. This is where residential upholstery cleaning becomes essential, as it helps effectively eliminate these stubborn stains while preserving the fabric’s quality.

Here are the steps to remove oil-based stains from upholstery:

• Scrape off any excess solid or liquid with a spoon or a knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric.
• Sprinkle baking soda, cornstarch, or talcum powder over the stain and let it sit for 15 minutes. This will help absorb some of the oil and make it easier to remove.
• Vacuum up the powder with a brush attachment or a handheld vacuum.
• Apply a solvent-based cleaner or rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and blot the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
• Blot the stain with another clean cloth until it is gone.
• Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• If the stain is still visible, repeat the process with a stronger solvent-based cleaner or rubbing alcohol.
• If the stain is stubborn, you may need to use a commercial upholstery cleaner or an enzyme-based cleaner that can break down organic stains. Follow the instructions on the product label and test it on a hidden area first.
  

Some stains are more challenging to remove than others because they have specific properties that make them stick to the fabric. These include blood, ink, chocolate, crayons, gum, and wax. For these stains, you need to use special methods and products that can target their source, or consider fabric cleaning services for professional treatment to ensure thorough stain removal without damaging the material.

Here are some tips on how to remove special stains from upholstery cleaning:



• Blood: Blot the stain with cold water as soon as possible. Do not use hot water, as this can set the stain. If the stain is dry, moisten it with cold water first. Then apply hydrogen peroxide to a clean cloth or cotton ball and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• Ink: Blot the stain with rubbing alcohol as soon as possible. Do not use water, as this can spread the ink. Then apply hairspray or nail polish remover to a clean cloth or cotton ball and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• Chocolate: Scrape off any excess solid with a spoon or a knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric. Then blot the stain with cold water. If the stain is still visible, apply a mild detergent or dish soap to a clean cloth or sponge and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• Crayon: Scrape off any excess solid with a spoon or a knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric. Then place a paper towel over the stain and iron it on low heat. The paper towel will absorb some of the wax. Repeat this process with a fresh paper towel until no more wax transfers. Then apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• Gum: Freeze the gum with ice cubes or a freezer pack. Then peel it off carefully with your fingers or a knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric. If there is any residue left, apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
• Wax: Freeze the wax with ice cubes or a freezer pack. Then peel it off carefully with your fingers or a knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric. If there is any residue left, place a paper towel over the stain and iron it on low heat. The paper towel will absorb some of the wax. Repeat this process with a fresh paper towel until no more wax transfers. Then apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth or cotton ball and dab the stain gently. Do not rub or scrub, as this can spread the stain and damage the fabric. Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a towel.
  

The best way to deal with stains is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are some tips on how to keep your upholstery clean and fresh:

• Vacuum your upholstery regularly to remove dust, dirt, and crumbs that can attract stains.
• Use slipcovers, throws, or blankets to protect your upholstery from spills, stains, and wear and tear.
• Treat your upholstery with a fabric protector spray that can repel liquids and stains.
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking on your upholstery, especially if it is light-colored or delicate.
• Keep pets off your upholstery or use pet covers to protect them from hair, odors, and stains.
• Spot-clean your upholstery as soon as you notice a spill or a stain using the methods we described above.
• Deep clean your upholstery at least once a year using a steam cleaner, a carpet cleaner, or a professional service.
  

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your upholstery may need more than just spot cleaning. It may have stubborn stains, unpleasant odors, allergens, bacteria, or mold that can affect its appearance, health, and longevity.

That's when you need to call Doctor Clean for professional upholstery cleaning in Santa Cruz County and the surrounding areas. We have over 30 years of experience in cleaning all types of upholstery, including leather, suede, velvet, microfiber, cotton, wool, and synthetic fabrics.

We use state-of-the-art equipment and eco-friendly products that can remove any stain, odor, or contaminant from your upholstery without damaging its color, texture, or quality. Our residential upholstery cleaning services are designed to meet the unique needs of your home, ensuring a fresh, clean look. We also offer free estimates, flexible scheduling, affordable prices, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

So don't let stains ruin your upholstery. Call us today at (831) 688-7847 and let us restore its beauty and freshness.