Removing Food Stains from Upholstered Furniture

A word of caution, though. Some upholstered fabrics shrink or their colors bleed when they get wet. So, always test the cleaning methods on a hidden area before cleaning. If bleeding or shrinking occurs, get professional advice.

Knowing what kind of stain you have on your upholstered furniture is the key to removing the stain.

A word of caution, though. Some upholstered fabrics shrink or their colors bleed when they get wet. So, always test the cleaning methods on a hidden area before cleaning. If bleeding or shrinking occurs, get professional advice. For example, some velvets can't be cleaned by home methods.

Once you know the kind of stain, many upholstery fabrics can be cleaned with home methods.

For hard candy

This is basically sugar and water. Scrape off the candy with a dull knife or rounded spoon. Sponge the stained area lightly with a cloth dampened in cool water. If this doesn't work, you should sponge the area with a solution of water and detergent.

To remove fruit stains…

Scrape off the pulp. Next, blot the area with a clean cloth and cool water. Mix clear vinegar with detergent and water and sponge the stained area, then blot it dry. You should also rinse the stained area with cool water to remove traces of vinegar.

To treat an egg stain…

You should remove as much of the egg as possible with the dull side of a knife. Sponge the stained area lightly with a solution of ammonia and cold water.

Stains from dairy products, soft candies such as chocolates, and grease spins require a cleaning solvent. You can buy solvents at drug stores and grocery stores, and in some furniture and department stores. Among the spot removers you might look for are Goddard's, Energine, or Carbona. Lightly sponge the solvent onto the stained area, then blot with a clean, absorbent cloth.

Treating stains on vinyl…

Dry cleaning solvents can damage some vinyls. So, you should wipe stained areas on vinyl with heavy duty liquid laundry detergent or a paste made from dry laundry detergent and warm water. If the stain remains, sponge with rubbing alcohol. But, remember to test as solutions on a hidden area before trying it on the stain. To be safe, don't try to remove major stains on suede and leather upholstery with home methods.

The Georgia Extension Service intends no endorsement of the products mentioned. There may be other products that will work equally as well. You may check labels or ask for such products where cleaning supplies are sold .

For more information on removing food stains from upholstered furniture; contact your local County Extension Office.