Cleaning your own upholstery might seem simple, but without the right knowledge, it’s easy to damage fabrics or make stains worse. At Expert Upholstery Cleaning, we’ve helped countless clients across Miami, Tampa, and Orlando fix cleaning attempts gone wrong. Below, we reveal the most common DIY upholstery cleaning mistakes — and how to avoid them.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaning Product
One of the biggest mistakes is using harsh or all-purpose cleaners not designed for delicate fabrics. This can cause discoloration, shrinkage, or leave behind sticky residues.
2. Oversaturating the Fabric
Too much water can seep deep into the upholstery padding, causing mold, mildew, or lingering odors. Moisture also attracts dirt and slows drying time.
3. Scrubbing Stains Aggressively
Vigorous scrubbing can push stains deeper into the fibers and even damage the fabric texture. Always blot — never rub.
4. Skipping a Fabric Test
Every fabric reacts differently to cleaning agents. Skipping a spot test can lead to irreversible damage. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
5. Not Vacuuming Before Cleaning
Cleaning upholstery without vacuuming first is like mopping a dirty floor. Dust and debris can turn into mud when wet, worsening the stain.
Need Help from the Pros?
If you’ve made one of these mistakes — don’t stress. Expert Upholstery Cleaning is here to help with professional upholstery cleaning services throughout Orlando, Tampa, Miami and nearby cities. We use safe, fabric-specific products like Chemspec Red X IT Spot Remover to restore your furniture the right way.
Book your cleaning today and enjoy fresh, clean upholstery — without the risk.
Available in San Diego, Los Angeles, and throughout California — now also serving Miami, Tampa, and Orlando, Florida. Book now