West Elm performance fabrics are designed to resist stains and stay looking fresh. Proper cleaning extends the life of the fabric and keeps upholstery vibrant between professional cleanings. This guide outlines practical, user-friendly steps for safe spot cleaning and routine maintenance.
By following these methods, homeowners can address everyday spills and common soils without damaging the material. The focus is on gentle treatments that align with performance fabrics and avoid harsh chemicals that could affect texture or color.
Quick Answer
Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth, use a fabric cleaner spray for performance fabrics on adhered soil, and finish with a microfiber cleaning cloth to lift residue. For deeper cleaning, pair a steam cleaner upholstery attachment for fabric with a ultra-soft upholstery brush kit for sofas to agitate and rinse fibers.
What You’ll Need
- Upholstery stain remover for performance fabric
- Fabric cleaner spray for performance fabrics
- Steam cleaner upholstery attachment for fabric
- Ultra-soft upholstery brush kit for sofas
- Microfiber cleaning cloths for performance fabric
Before You Start
Identify the fabric type on the West Elm piece and test cleaners in an inconspicuous area. Use gentle, water-based cleaners whenever possible. Allow the fabric to dry fully between cleaning stages. Time range: 30 minutes to several hours depending on humidity and fabric density.
Important cautions: avoid bleach, solvents, and high heat. Do not rub aggressively, which can cause fiber matting or color loss. Always blot rather than rub to lift spills.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean West Elm Performance Fabric
- Assess the Spill: Determine whether the spill is liquid, solid, or greasy. Quick action reduces staining risk and simplifies cleaning.
- Blot the Area: Using a clean, white microfiber cloth, gently blot from the outer edge toward the center to absorb moisture. Do not scrub.
- Apply a Stain Remover: Lightly apply an upholstery stain remover for performance fabric exactly as directed on the label, focusing on the stain perimeter.
- Wait and Lifts: Let the product sit per the instructions, then blot again with a clean cloth to remove lifted soils.
- Rinse if Required: If the cleaner requires rinsing, use a damp cloth to remove any residue. Avoid soaking the fabric.
- Agitate Gently: Use the ultra-soft upholstery brush kit for sofas to gently agitate the nap and loosen embedded soils.
- Use Steam for Deep Cleaning (optional): Attach a steam cleaner upholstery attachment and lightly mist the fabric, keeping the nozzle at a comfortable distance. Do not saturate; allow to air-dry fully.
- Dry Thoroughly: Let the fabric air-dry completely. If needed, use a fan to speed drying and prevent mildew.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stain persists after cleaning | Stain deeply set or affected by heat | Repeat with a stain remover designed for performance fabric | Address spills promptly; blot, not rub |
| Fabric feels stiff after cleaning | Residue left behind | Rinse gently with a damp cloth and blot dry | Avoid over-wetting |
| Color transfer or fading | Harsh chemical exposure | Switch to milder, fabric-safe cleaners | Test in hidden area first |
| Nap appears matted | Rough brushing | Use lighter strokes with the ultra-soft brush | Brush only after cleaning and drying |
Common Mistakes
- Using household cleaners intended for carpets or hard surfaces on fabric upholstery
- Soaking the fabric or applying too much cleaner
- Rubbing stains aggressively, which embeds soils and damages fibers
- Neglecting to test cleaners in an inconspicuous area
Tips For Best Results
- Blot spills as soon as they occur to minimize staining.
- Work from the outside edge toward the center to contain the spill.
- Keep cleaning products specifically labeled for performance fabrics to preserve color and texture.
- Regularly vacuum fabric to remove surface dust before it becomes embedded soil.
Call A Professional
Consult a professional if spills cover a large area, stains are deeply set after multiple attempts, or if the fabric shows signs of dye migration, fraying, or seam separation. Seek a pro for steam cleaning if the upholstery warranty prohibits home steam use or if the fabric care label advises against it.
FAQ
Can I use a household fabric cleaner on West Elm performance fabric?
Use cleaners labeled for performance fabric to maintain color and texture.
Is steam cleaning safe for all performance fabrics?
Steam is helpful for deep cleaning but only when the care label permits it and when used with a proper upholstery attachment.
How should I treat a fresh spill on a couch?
Blot immediately, then follow with a stain remover designed for performance fabric as directed on the label.
How often should I clean performance fabric upholstery?
Spot clean as needed and schedule a light cleaning every 6–12 months depending on use and exposure to children or pets.
Buying Guide
Choosing cleaning supplies tailored to performance fabrics helps protect colorfastness and texture. Consider factors such as size of the couch, the typical soil load, and whether you prefer spray cleaners or foam forms. Look for products with clear instructions and fabric-safety certifications.
Key buying factors include size and coverage of cleaners, compatibility with West Elm performance fabrics, and the availability of dedicated tools like microfiber cloths and soft brushes. Noise level and energy efficiency are less relevant for manual cleaning, but when using steam devices, consider models with low-noise operation and efficient heat control. Ensure tools are suited to upholstery and that the cleaners can be used with the fabric’s care label.