Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500277
06/24/03
Upholstery Fabric Cleaning Code Labels
Some manufacturers have adopted the voluntary uniform
standards for furniture cleanability developed by an
industry committee. If used, each fabric will be marked
with a code which indicates the appropriate cleaning
method. The code may be printed on fabric samples, on a
label under seat cushions and/or on hand tags. Use as a
guide for spot removal, and for overall cleaning.
W--Use Water-Based Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric
with the foam only of a water-based cleaning agent such
as a mild detergent or commercial upholstery shampoo.
Use sparingly. Avoid overwetting.
S--Use Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean this fabric with a
mild water-free dry-cleaning solvent available in local
stores. Use sparingly in a well-ventilated room with no
sparks or flame in the room.
CAUTION: Use of water-based solvent cleaners may
cause spotting and/or excessive shrinking. Solvent
cleaning agents will not remove water stains.
S-W--Use Water-Based or Solvent Cleaner. Spot clean
this fabric with a dry-cleaning solvent, mild detergent
foam or upholstery shampoo, depending on the stain.
X--Vacuum Only. Clean this fabric only by vacuuming
or light brushing to prevent accumulation of dust and
grime. Water-based foam or solvent-based cleaning agents
of any kind may cause excessive shrinking, fading or
spotting.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus with references from Wisconsin
Extension bulletin, Care and Cleaning of Upholstered
Furniture.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .