Expert: Mark H. Miller - 2/13/2006

Question
We recently purchased a 5 yr old couch (Broyhill cloth) and are attempting to remove a few stains in the upholstery (cushions mainly).  The instructions indicate professional cleaning (dry only), yet we are not wanting to drop a lot of money into a used couch.  Even though it goes against the manufactureres instructions, can we remove the cushion covers and take them into the dry cleaners?

Also, do you have any other recommended products/cleaning methods to take care of other minor stains on the couch (tan plaid pattern).

Thank you

Answer
Hi,

The reason manufacturers discourage removing cushion covers is that it is not always easy to re-insert the cushion fillers.  As long as you are comfortable that you can refill the cushions and have them look and fit the way they did then I see no reason for not removing them and having them cleaned by a professional dry cleaner.  Make certain that the dry-cleaner guarantees that the cushion covers won't fade or shrink.  

Under no circumstances clean the cushion covers yourself in a washing machine.

I hope this helps.

Mark Miller.