How do you clean a fabric couch at home?
Short answer
Check the cleaning code on the tag under a cushion first. W means water based cleaners are fine, S means solvent only with no water, WS means either, and X means vacuum only. Vacuum the couch, test your cleaner on a hidden spot, and blot gently without soaking the fabric.
X on the tag, or a couch that's dingy all over? Upholstery cleaning starts at $50 a piece. Call or text OxyMagic Carpet Cleaning in Blaine, MN at 763-213-6217. We answer 8AM to 8PM, 7 days, and you can text anytime.
$129 for two carpeted rooms That's the starting price. More rooms or extras? You'll get the price in writing before we start.
Part 1 of 5
What the codes mean
- W: water based cleaners, like upholstery shampoo or foam from a mild detergent. Don't soak it.
- S: solvent only. American Leather says water can damage these fabrics or leave rings. Open a window and wear gloves with solvents.
- WS or SW: either one, used sparingly.
- X: vacuum or light brushing only. Leave the cleaning to a professional.
Part 2 of 5
How to clean a W or WS couch
Vacuum the whole couch with the upholstery tool, including under the cushions. Blot fresh spills with a clean white cloth. Then whip a little mild detergent into water and use only the foam, not the water, working from the edge of the spot inward. Blot, rinse by blotting with a damp cloth, and let it air dry. Ashley notes pile fabrics may need brushing afterward to lift the nap.
Part 3 of 5
Don't unzip the cushions
It's tempting to throw cushion covers in the wash. Ashley's cleaning codes say cushion covers should not be removed and laundered or dry cleaned, unless the tag says the fabric is machine washable.
Part 4 of 5
When to call a pro
X coded fabric, pet urine in the cushions, body oil on the arms and headrests, or a couch that's dingy all over are all good reasons to hire it out. The IICRC notes pet dander odor can come back in humid weather and may need more than one cleaning.
OxyMagic's upholstery cleaning starts at $50 per piece and typically runs $50 to $150 per piece. Big sectionals get a written quote first. See what couch cleaning costs, or read about our upholstery cleaning.
Part 5 of 5
Spot cleaning a W or WS couch
Vacuum the whole couch with the upholstery tool.
Blot fresh spills with a clean white cloth. Don't rub.
Whip a little mild detergent into water to make foam.
Test the foam on a hidden spot and let it dry.
Apply just the foam with a soft cloth, working from the edge inward, then blot.
Blot with a damp cloth to rinse, let it air dry, and brush pile fabric to lift it.
Related questions
What does code S mean on a couch?
Clean it only with a water free dry cleaning solvent. Ashley says not to use water, and American Leather notes water can leave rings on these fabrics. Ventilate the room and wear gloves with solvents.
Can I wash couch cushion covers in the washing machine?
Usually not. Ashley's cleaning codes say cushion covers should not be removed and laundered or dry cleaned, unless the tag says machine washable.
How do you get a smell out of a couch?
Vacuum well, then clean it the way the tag allows. The IICRC notes pet dander odor can come back in humid weather and can reach deep into cushions, so strong odors often need a professional.
Sources
- Cleaning Codes Ashley Furniture Industries, Accessed September 29, 2026
- Fabric Cleaning Codes Explained American Leather, Accessed September 29, 2026
- Consumer Floor and Furnishings Care Information IICRC, February 2023
- How Much Does Upholstery Cleaning Cost? Angi, Updated September 14, 2026
Brand names belong to their owners. Outside prices and ratings change, so get a written quote before you book.
Want us to handle it?
We use a low-moisture, hydrogen peroxide clean, so most carpets are dry in an hour or two, depending on the carpet and the weather.