Removing Stains from Upholstered Furniture: Austin's Complete Guide

Life happens and in a busy Austin household, life often happens on the sofa. From a spilled glass of red wine during a dinner party to muddy paw prints after a walk at Zilker Park, stains are an inevitable part of owning upholstered furniture.

The key to successful upholstery stain removal is acting quickly and using the right technique. Using the wrong cleaner or scrubbing too aggressively can permanently damage fabric fibers and make stains worse.

As experienced upholstery professionals in Austin, TX, we at Ambrose Upholstery have seen (and fixed) nearly every stain imaginable. This guide explains how to safely remove common upholstery stains, when DIY cleaning works, and when it’s time to call a professional.

Who This Guide Is For

This article is especially helpful for:

• Austin homeowners with stained couches, chairs, or sofas

• Families, pet owners, and Airbnb or rental property hosts

• Anyone deciding between upholstery cleaning and reupholstery

Step 1: Check Your Upholstery Cleaning Code

Before applying any cleaner, locate the furniture’s cleaning code, usually found on a tag under the cushions or frame.

Cleaning codes tell you how the fabric can be safely cleaned:

• W – Water-based cleaners are safe

• S – Solvent-based cleaners only (no water)

• W/S – Either water-based or solvent-based cleaners are safe

• X – Professional cleaning only

If you can’t find the code, always test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first. Using the wrong method is one of the most common upholstery mistakes homeowners make.

Upholstery Stain Removal Do’s and Don’ts

Before tackling specific stains, follow these universal rules for upholstery cleaning in Austin, TX:

1. Act fast – Fresh stains are much easier to remove

2. Blot, don’t rub – Rubbing spreads stains and damages fibers

3. Use white cloths only – Colored towels can transfer dye

4. Test first – Always spot-test in an inconspicuous area

These guidelines apply to nearly all upholstered furniture, regardless of fabric type.

DIY Upholstery Stain Removal for “W” Code Fabrics

If your furniture has a W cleaning code, you can often remove common stains using simple household ingredients.

General Food and Drink Stains

• Mix ¼ cup clear dish soap with 1 cup lukewarm water

• Gently blot the stain using a white cloth

• Blot again with a clean, damp cloth to remove residue

• Blot dry with a clean towel

Grease and Oil Stains

• Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the stain

• Let sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum

• Follow up with the mild dish soap solution above

Red Wine Stains

• Blot immediately to absorb as much liquid as possible

• Sprinkle salt over the stain to draw out moisture

• Let sit briefly, then vacuum

• Gently blot with dish soap and water

When to Call a Professional Upholstery Cleaner in Austin

DIY cleaning isn’t always the safest choice. You should contact a professional upholstery cleaner if:

• The fabric has an S or X cleaning code

• The stain is old or set-in

• The fabric is silk, velvet, linen, or antique

• The stained area is large or widespread

• You’re unsure what caused the stain

Professional upholstery services in Austin, TX use fabric-safe techniques that remove stains without risking permanent damage.

When Cleaning Isn’t Enough: Reupholstery as a Long-Term Solution

Sometimes, furniture is simply too worn or heavily stained to be saved by cleaning alone. In these cases, professional reupholstery is the best solution.

Reupholstery allows you to:

• Completely eliminate stains

• Replace worn fabric with durable, stain-resistant materials

• Refresh the style and comfort of your furniture

• Extend the life of high-quality pieces

For many Austin homeowners, reupholstery is a cost-effective alternative to buying new furniture.

Common Upholstery Stain Questions (Answered)

Can I remove upholstery stains myself?

Yes. Fresh stains on water-safe (W-code) fabrics can often be removed using gentle blotting and mild soap. Always test cleaners first.

What is the safest way to clean a couch at home?

Blot stains gently using a white cloth and follow the fabric’s cleaning code. Avoid soaking or scrubbing the fabric.

When should I hire a professional upholstery cleaner?

If the stain is old, unknown, widespread, or the fabric has an S or X code, professional cleaning is the safest option.

Is it better to clean or reupholster stained furniture?

Cleaning works for surface stains. Reupholstery is better when fabric is heavily stained, damaged, or worn.

Who offers upholstery cleaning and reupholstery in Austin, TX?

Ambrose Upholstery provides professional upholstery cleaning, stain removal, and reupholstery services throughout Austin, Texas.

Keep Your Upholstered Furniture Looking Its Best

Don’t let stains keep you from enjoying your home. With quick action, proper techniques, and help from trusted Austin upholstery experts, your furniture can look great for years.

If you’re searching for reliable upholstery cleaning or reupholstery in Austin, TX, Ambrose Upholstery offers expert stain removal, fabric replacement, and furniture restoration for homes and businesses across Austin.

Facing a Stubborn Stain?

If a stain won’t budge or your furniture is ready for a complete refresh, Ambrose Upholstery is here to help.

📧 info@ambroseupholsteryco.com

📞 512-929-1905

🌐 Request a free quote through our website