Over time, your upholstery can become surprisingly dirty, and this can make your valuable couches and settings look aged before their time. So breathe new life into your upholstery by having it professionally cleaned.

What you need to know about upholstery cleaning

To rejuvenate and freshen your upholstered furniture (couches, daybeds, dining chairs etc), you will need to have it regularly cleaned. Because upholstery can use a range of different fabrics such as silk, canvas, micro suede, wool, and tapestry, the cleaning professional should assess the upholstery. They will check to see what materials are used, if it has been cleaned before, if the fabric is likely to shrink, and if the fabric is colourfast. Once they have this information, they will be able to select the best mode of cleaning.

Upholstery cleaning is done using either steam cleaning or dry cleaning techniques. All dirt and stains will be removed during the cleaning process and a fabric protection product can be applied after cleaning in order to keep the upholstery cleaner for longer.

Make sure you ask the professional what the cost of the cleaning will be and what method they will use. They should give you information on how to maintain the upholstery after cleaning, and let you know how long you need to allow the upholstery to dry before you can use it again.

What type of upholstery can you get cleaned?

Upholstery cleaning services can take care of a wide range of fabrics and materials commonly found in homes and commercial spaces. Some of the upholstery materials that professionals can effectively clean include:

Fabric upholstery

Covering cotton, linen, polyester and blends. Fabric upholstery on sofas, chairs and curtains can collect dirt and stains over time, so professional cleaning can restore their appearance and leave them much fresher.

Leather upholstery

Leather is a popular choice for sofas, dining chairs and even car interiors. But leather upholstery requires special care to prevent drying, cracking or discoloration. Professional leather cleaning and conditioning will help to maintain its softness.

Microfibre upholstery

Microfibre is a durable, stain-resistant material commonly used on modern furniture. Professional cleaning will keep it clean, fresh and free from stains and spills.

Velvet upholstery

Velvet is known for its luxurious texture and appearance, but it can be difficult to clean due to its delicate fibres. Upholstery professionals use specific methods to preserve the look and feel of velvet while removing dirt and stains.

Suede upholstery

Suede is a soft and stylish material often found on furniture and clothing. Professionals can clean suede upholstery without causing damage to its fragile appearance.

Vinyl upholstery

Vinyl is a common choice in cafes and restaurants, car interiors, as well as some furniture.

Silk upholstery

Silk is a delicate upholstery material often used in high-end furniture, so specialised care from a professional is essential to clean silk upholstery and preserve its sheen.

Outdoor upholstery

Outdoor furniture often has to withstand the harsh Australian elements. Hiring a professional upholstery cleaning service can remove dirt, mould and mildew from your outdoor items.

Antique or vintage upholstery

These items often have delicate and unique upholstery materials. Only a professionals will have the expertise to clean these items without damaging their historical value.

Steam cleaning vs dry cleaning: Which is best for upholstery?

The choice between steam cleaning and dry cleaning largely depends on the fabric type and how fast you want the job done.

Steam cleaning, or hot water extraction, is a very effective method for most upholstery materials. It uses hot water and steam to penetrate deep into the fabric, breaking down dirt and stains. The powerful extraction process removes the moisture, leaving your upholstery clean and fresh. This method is particularly suitable for fabrics like microfibre, cotton and synthetic blends. It gives your items a deep, thorough clean and is excellent at removing stains and allergens. However, it might require longer drying times, which can be inconvenient if you need to use the upholstery soon after cleaning.

Your other option is dry cleaning, which is a low-moisture method that uses specific cleaning agents and solvents. It’s the preferred choice for delicate and natural fibre upholstery, such as silk or velvet, where excessive moisture could lead to damage or shrinkage. Dry cleaning is also quicker, with shorter drying times, which makes it the more convenient option for many. However, it might not be as effective at removing deep stains or allergens compared to steam cleaning.

Can you get your upholstery cleaned with environmentally friendly products?

Yes, many professional upholstery cleaning services now offer the option of using green cleaning products that are environmentally friendly. These products are designed to be biodegradable, non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals, which makes the cleaning process safer for both your family and the environment. Just make sure any eco-friendly product you want used is suitable for the type of upholstery material being cleaned!

How much does upholstery cleaning cost?

Because there are so many different types of upholstery and different-sized items that you can get cleaned, many companies will set a price for each specific item. Some will also charge a minimum booking fee – so even if you only need one dining chair cleaned and that usually costs $35, you may be charged a higher rate due to the minimum booking fee. It’s important that you speak to a few different professionals and get an accurate quote before booking.

According to SofaCleaners.com.au, a minimum price booking could be around $120 depending on where you are located. As for particular upholstery items, a single mattress clean starts at $55, up to $115 for a king mattress. For a normal fabric two-seater armchair you are looking at $70. And for leather cleaning services you should expect to pay around $49 per seat.

How to find a reputable local upholstery cleaner

Here’s what you should ask a professional cleaner before hiring them to take care of your upholstery items:

1. Are you insured for your upholstery cleaning services, in case of any damage?
2. Can you share any before-and-after photos of previous upholstery cleaning jobs?
3. Do you use environmentally friendly or green cleaning products, and are they safe for children and pets?
4. Are there any upholstery materials you don’t clean?
5. Can you explain your cleaning process and the equipment you use, including the drying time required for my specific upholstery?
6. What is your pricing structure for additional services like odour treatments and protective coatings?
7. Do you have a satisfaction guarantee or warranty for your cleaning services?
8. How do you handle antique upholstery items, ensuring they are preserved well during the cleaning process?