Upholstery fabric cleaning codes tell you which cleaning methods are safe to use without damaging your furniture. Codes such as W, S, and SW indicate whether a fabric should be cleaned with water-based products, solvent-based cleaners, or either option. Understanding these codes before treating spills or stains can help prevent discoloration, shrinkage, watermarks, and other fabric damage while keeping your upholstery looking its best for longer.
Best for: High-traffic areas and everyday use
Care tip: Clean spills quickly to prevent staining and keep the fabric looking its best.
| Cleaning Code | Recommended Cleaner | Key Characteristics | Best For | Care Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W — Water-Based Cleaner | Water-based upholstery or carpet cleaners | Easy to maintain and suitable for frequent cleaning. Appropriate attachments can be used for spills and stains. | High-traffic areas, dining chairs, sofas, accent chairs, and everyday-use furniture | Clean spills quickly to help prevent staining and maintain the fabric’s appearance. |
| S — Solvent Cleaner Only | Solvent-based or home dry-cleaning products only | Water should be avoided because it may cause spotting, shrinkage, watermarks, or fabric damage. | Decorative and specialty fabrics that require more delicate care | Treat spills promptly, prevent dirt buildup, dry cleaned areas thoroughly, and consider professional cleaning for best results. |
| SW — Solvent or Water-Based Cleaner | Either water-based or solvent-based cleaners | Offers greater cleaning flexibility and can accommodate different maintenance methods. | Fabrics that allow versatile care, especially in lower-traffic areas | Spot clean promptly. Professional cleaning is recommended for larger stains or heavily used furniture. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What do upholstery fabric cleaning codes mean?
Upholstery cleaning codes indicate which cleaning products and methods are considered safe for a specific fabric. They help reduce the risk of stains, discoloration, shrinkage, or other damage during cleaning.
What does the W cleaning code mean on upholstery?
The W code means the fabric can generally be cleaned with water-based upholstery cleaners. It is still important to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and test the cleaner on a hidden area first.
What does the S code mean on furniture fabric?
An S code indicates that the upholstery should be cleaned with a solvent-based, water-free cleaner. Using water on this type of fabric may cause watermarks, discoloration, or damage.
What does SW mean on upholstery fabric?
SW means the fabric can typically be cleaned with either water-based cleaners or solvent-based cleaning products. This gives you more flexibility when choosing a suitable cleaning method.
Where can I find the cleaning code for my upholstery?
The cleaning code is usually printed on the manufacturer’s care label, which may be located underneath the furniture, beneath seat cushions, or attached to the upholstery tag.