When choosing a fabric, consider the fabric composition before buying furniture. Acrylic/polyester fabrics are good choices for a family room. The fabric is strong and has antistatic properties that reduce static and shocks.Every manufacturer has fabric cleaning codes attached to the fabric samples, known as flags, at the furniture store (figure C). When choosing your fabric, always check these codes to determine what fabrics best suit your lifestyle.W or water-solvent: W indicates the fabric can be cleaned with water. Always spot-test in an inconspicuous place to be sure the fabric is indeed colorfast. Apply water to a cloth, not the upholstery; work in a circular motion and work toward the center of the stain. If it's a heavy stain like ketchup, scraep off excess with a dull straightedge before cleaning.
S or solvent cleaning: Solvent-clean fabrics, such as velvets and velveteen, are more suited to formal areas such as dining rooms and libraries where traffic is minimal, and the rooms are not casual, throw-your-feet-up-and-be-comfortable environments.
SW: SW fabrics allow the use of water or solvent cleaners at your discretion.
X: X fabrics should be cleaned with a brush. Never use water or solvents on these fabrics.
The grade listing is an indication from each manufacturer of the purchase or buy that was made from the mill. This has more to do with the cost of the fabric than the quality.To check for colorfastness, wet a cotton ball and rub it over the fabric in an inconspicuous place on the fabric. If the fabric isn't colorfast, the cotton ball will reflect the color of the fabric.Club soda is a good general cleaner because the carbonation in the soda bubbles up the stain and the salts keep it from staining the fabric. Clean in a circular motion to take the stain particles away from the fabric (figure D). Go over the stained area until it is completely clean, continually changing the cleaning area of the cloth. Never use a blow dryer on the fabric until the stain is completely removed.
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