How to Remove Stains from Upholstered & Wooden Furniture

Stains on upholstered and wooden furniture can diminish the appearance and longevity of your pieces. Addressing these blemishes promptly with appropriate techniques is essential for maintaining your furniture's beauty and functionality. This guide outlines effective methods to remove common stains from both upholstery and wood surfaces.​

1. Removing Stains from Upholstered Furniture

Before proceeding, check the manufacturer's care label on your furniture to determine the recommended cleaning methods.

  • General Cleaning: For fabrics that can be cleaned with water, mix a small amount of dish soap with cool water. Using a wrung-out sponge, gently blot the stain with the soapy mixture, taking care not to rub, which can weaken the fabric. Follow by blotting with a clean, damp sponge to remove any soap residue. ​

  • Oil-Based Stains: Sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on the stained area to absorb excess oil. Let it sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum the powder. If the stain persists, apply a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to a clean cloth and gently blot the stain, ensuring you test this method on an inconspicuous area first. ​

  • Ink Stains: Dampen a clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol and gently blot the ink stain, being careful not to spread it. Avoid rubbing, which can cause the ink to penetrate deeper into the fabric. ​

  • Pet Stains: Blot the area with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water to neutralize odors and remove stains. After blotting, sprinkle baking soda over the area to absorb any remaining moisture and odors, then vacuum once dry. ​

2. Removing Stains from Wooden Furniture

Always test cleaning methods on a small, hidden area of the wood before applying them to visible surfaces.

  • Water Rings: Apply a small amount of mayonnaise to the water ring and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Wipe away the mayonnaise with a clean cloth, and the stain should be diminished or gone. 

  • Heat Marks: Create a paste using non-gel toothpaste and baking soda. Gently rub the paste onto the stain with a soft cloth until the mark disappears, then wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. ​

  • Dark Stains: Dark stains often indicate that water has penetrated the wood finish. To address this, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the stain using a cotton swab. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean, damp cloth and dry thoroughly. ​

  • General Stains: For various stains, a paste made from baking soda and water can be effective. Apply the paste to the stained area, let it sit for several hours until completely dry, then wipe away and polish the wood as usual.

 

Effectively removing stains from upholstered and wooden furniture requires prompt attention and the appropriate cleaning methods. By following these guidelines, you can maintain the appearance and extend the lifespan of your furniture pieces, ensuring they continue to enhance your living space.​

Additional Resource

For a visual demonstration on removing water rings and heat stains from wood furniture, you might find the following video helpful:​

Removing white water rings and heat stains from wood furniture

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