Get matched with top upholstery and furniture cleaners in your area

Most everyday stains—think coffee, food, mud, or pet dirt—lift easily if you act fast with the right cleaner. Red wine, paint, ink, and nail polish are tougher and warrant a professional visit or a specialty remover. Whatever you try, spot-test an out-of-sight area first so you don’t accidentally fade or rough-up the fabric.

Plan on two to eight hours of drying time after a professional cleaning. You can speed things up by cracking windows, switching on a couple of fans, or running a space heater. Good airflow moves moisture out fast, and flipping the cushions every hour helps them dry evenly. Taking these steps protects the fabric and gets you back on the couch sooner.

Steam cleaning pairs hot vapor with strong suction to pull dirt, pet hair, and allergens out of upholstery. Because the moisture is minimal, fabrics don’t get soaked, yet the heat still sanitizes each fiber. 

Pros use commercial-grade machines that keep temperatures steady and suction powerful, so your furniture comes out cleaner and dries faster, without risking shrinkage or discoloration.

Start by giving the piece a thorough vacuum to lift loose dust and crumbs. Dab any visible stains with a fabric-safe pretreatment and let it sit for a few minutes. Before you steam the whole couch, test a hidden spot to be sure the fabric can handle the heat and moisture. These quick steps help the pro—or your rental machine—deliver the deepest, safest clean.

Get at least three quotes, then dig into each company’s reviews and references. Ask whether they’ve worked on your fabric type, what equipment they use, and if their service comes with a satisfaction guarantee. 

Pros who handle silk or leather regularly—and arrive with modern, well-maintained machines—are far less likely to damage your furniture. Taking a few minutes to vet details upfront pays off in cleaner, safer results.