Upholstered Bed Fabric Care Guide

Simple care for your upholstered bed

A little regular care helps keep your bed looking its best. Here’s how to manage dust, pet hair and spills.

Check first: cleaning methods vary by fabric and finish. Follow the care instructions supplied with your bed. If you’re unsure, ask UK Beds Direct before using water or a cleaning product.

Everyday cleaning

Where your fabric’s instructions allow it, use a clean, soft vacuum attachment on low suction. Gently clean the headboard, sides and footboard, including seams and button details. Don’t scrub or press hard.

Fixed upholstery stays attached to the bed, so it cannot be removed for machine washing.

Removing pet hair

Start with gentle vacuuming. If hair remains, use a lint tool suitable for your fabric and test it somewhere hidden first. Avoid sharp scrapers or strong sticky rollers that could pull fibres.

A washable throw where your pet rests can help protect the upholstery.

What to do after a spill

  1. Blot straight away. Use a clean, dry white cloth. Don’t rub.
  2. Work towards the centre. Start at the edge to help avoid spreading the spill.
  3. Check the care instructions. Don’t add water or cleaner unless your fabric allows it.
  4. Test first. Try any approved treatment on a hidden area. Let it dry fully and check for changes in colour or texture.
  5. Use as little moisture as possible. Don’t soak the fabric or padding. Let it dry naturally without direct heat.

A quick note on different fabrics

Bouclé and looped fabrics: avoid tools that can catch the loops. Don’t pull loose threads.

Velvet and plush fabrics: don’t rub hard. The fibres can change direction and create light or dark patches that are not always stains.

Chenille, woven and linen-blend fabrics: avoid scrubbing. Check before using water, as some finishes can show water marks.

Your fabric’s own instructions take priority over these general tips.

If a stain won’t come out

Stop if gentle blotting doesn’t help. Repeated cleaning or mixing products can make things worse.

For stubborn marks, ink, oil, dye, pet accidents or large stains, ask a professional upholstery cleaner who knows your fabric. Show them any care information supplied with your bed.

Don’t use bleach, solvents, stain removers or steam cleaners unless approved for your fabric.

Help prevent marks

Limit prolonged direct sunlight where possible. Keep wet hair, oils and tanning products away from the upholstery, and avoid contact with sharp objects.

Need help choosing or caring for a fabric?

Before buying: contact UK Beds Direct with the bed name and fabric or colour you’re considering. Ask about its care requirements, especially if you have pets.

Already bought your bed? Send your order number, fabric details and a clear photo of any mark so we can help you find the right next step.