Upholstery knowledge
Upholstery cleaning codes W, S, WS and X explained
Read the furniture label before choosing a cleaner. A zipper does not make a cushion cover machine washable.
Tapiceros del Mundo · 4 min read · Updated
Find the furniture label and exact fabric reference before treating a stain. Appearance or fiber content alone is not enough to identify a compatible method. Keep a label photo with your upholstery invoice for future care.
Read the code, then the full instructions
- W: water-based upholstery spot cleaner.
- S: water-free solvent spot cleaner suitable for the upholstery.
- WS or W-S: water-based or solvent methods as directed.
- X: vacuum or lightly brush; no liquid or foam cleaner.
Follow the manufacturer’s directions and test a hidden area. W alone does not authorize steam cleaning, saturation or machine washing. The label applies to a particular upholstery system, not every product with a similar texture.
Build a care record
- Record the manufacturer, collection, fabric reference and care code.
- Photograph the label and stain. Note its cause if known.
- List any products already applied and visible changes.
- Ask for directions covering the cover, filling and finish.
Frequently asked questions
Can a zippered cushion cover go in the washing machine?
Only if the specific care instructions allow it. A zipper can be there for assembly rather than washing.
Does the code guarantee stain removal?
No. It identifies a care method, not a guarantee that every stain can be removed.
Sources and further reading
Prepared by Tapiceros del Mundo with AI-assisted research and editorial synthesis. Supplier specifications remain specific to each product; this guide does not report a product test.
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