Frequently Asked Questions About Upholstery Cleaning

Many fabrics do. The manufacturer does this to limit their liability so they are not responsible if an inexperienced technician ruins a piece of furniture while trying to clean it. The only problem is dry cleaning is not a very effective cleaning method. However Referral's experienced technicians can wet clean various types of fabric and fibers since we use the proper cleaning solutions, do not over wet it, dry it quickly and clean the fabric in the proper direction so way the fabric lays is not disturbed.

You benefit by having us apply our carpet & fabric protection any time we clean your carpets, rugs, and furniture. Our protector makes it more difficult for spills, spots, and stains to penetrate to the interior of the fibers where they can cause permanent damage. The protector keeps messes on the surface where they can be more easily cleaned. Some fabrics have protector applied during the manufacturing process. However, the protection degrades over time with use and cleaning. It should be refreshed from time to time. Click here to learn more about Scotchgard fabric protector

If you're a retired couple and live in your home 6 months a year...probably every 2 or 3 years. If you have an active family with 3-5 kids and pets – I suggest at LEAST once a year.

Referral does not offer leather cleaning.  Contact Sterling Services at (260) 484-3550 for leather cleaning in Fort Wayne.

We can clean upholstery at your location or you can bring it to our office.  Our in-shop cleaning minimum is lower than our in-home cleaning minimum, so if all you need cleaned is a couple cushions, pillows or a chair you may want to bring it to our office.

Any and All.  Bar stools, ottomans, chairs, sofas, love seats, sectionals, cushions, pillows, arm covers.  We have experience cleaning different fabric fiber types such as olefin, polyester, cotton, wool and many microfiber types.

No. Leave the fabric cover on the cushion/stuffing for cleaning.

No, while cleaning we only clean the fabric and do not overwet it so the foam or cushion does not get wet.

Within 1 - 24 hours depending on the fiber / fabric type and the drying conditions such as temperature, humidity and airflow.  Don't replace cushions or sit on the upholstery until dry.  Leave cushions off of base and leaning against a wall to allow air to flow to all sides of cushion.

1. Vacuum the decking underneath the seat cushions.
2. Vacuum or brush off excess pet hair.
3. Remove tables and small furniture near the item being cleaned so it can be moved around during cleaning.

Maybe.  There are several variables such as the fiber type, the severity, and if the cushion can be treated.  Contact us to see if your particular situation can be helped.  Click here to learn more about pet urine stain and odor removal.

It is not recommended because the covers may shrink and/or lose their shape when cleaned.  This may also cause the cushion covers to have a different color / shade than the rest of the upholstered base.  It is best to have Referral professionally clean the upholstery.