Why Fabric Matters
Upholstered furniture collects an enormous amount of body oils, dead skin, dust mites, pet dander, and spills — more per square foot than carpet, often. But the wrong cleaning method on the wrong fabric can shrink, bleed, water-spot, or completely ruin a piece of furniture that cost thousands of dollars.
Before we touch your furniture, we identify the fiber content (natural, synthetic, blended), check the manufacturer's cleaning code (W, S, WS, X), and perform a colorfastness test in an inconspicuous area. Only then do we select the method.
Fabrics We Clean
Microfiber
Synthetic suede-like fabrics that love water-based cleaning. Great candidates for hot-water extraction with low-moisture technique.
Cotton & Linen
Natural fibers prone to shrinking and water-spotting. We use low-moisture, controlled-humidity methods.
Silk & Rayon
Delicate protein and cellulose fibers. Dry-cleaning solvents, extreme care, and no agitation.
Wool
Natural, resilient, but alkaline-sensitive. Specialized pH-neutral wool cleaning solutions only.
Synthetic Blends
Polyester, nylon, acrylic blends. Hot-water extraction is usually safe and highly effective.
Leather
Conditioning and cleaning with pH-neutral leather-specific products. Removes oils, restores suppleness.
Our Process
- Inspection & fiber test. We identify fiber content and read the cleaning tag.
- Pre-vacuum. Soft-brush vacuum removes loose soil and debris.
- Spot pre-treatment. Targeted spotters on stains before overall cleaning.
- Overall cleaning. Hot-water extraction or dry solvent cleaning depending on fabric.
- Rinse & neutralize. Residue removal ensures the fabric doesn't re-soil quickly.
- Grooming & drying. Fabric is groomed and air-moved for even, fast drying.
What to Expect
- Furniture typically dries in 2 to 6 hours depending on fabric
- Noticeable brightening and freshening
- Allergen reduction (dust mites, pet dander, pollen)
- Residue-free finish that stays cleaner longer
- Fabric protection available as an add-on service
"They cleaned a 70-year-old wingback chair that belonged to my mother. I was terrified. Elite was so careful, and the result was stunning." — Patricia L., Lyme NH