Upholstery Cleaning Codes Explained: W, S, W/S, X

13th Jan 2026

If you have ever looked at a fabric swatch and wondered what those single letters mean, this guide is for you. Upholstery cleaning codes tell you exactly how to clean a fabric without ruining it. Use this reference to handle everyday spills safely and protect the investment you made in your sofa, sectional, or recliner.

The Codes in Plain English

W — Water based cleaners only
Use water based solutions such as mild dish soap and water. Blot, do not rub.

S — Solvent cleaners only
Use a water free dry cleaning solvent. Never apply water or steam.

W/S — Water or solvent
You may use either a water based cleaner or a water free solvent. Start with the gentlest option.

X — Vacuum or brush only
No liquids. Only routine vacuuming and professional service.

Tip: Always test any cleaner on an inconspicuous area first and let it dry before treating the main spot.

Quick Decision Tree

Find the cleaning code on your swatch, sales order, or manufacturer tag.
Identify the spill
- Water based: coffee, soda, wine, juice
- Oil based: salad dressing, makeup, greasy food
- Protein based: milk, ice cream, pet accidents
Follow the matching steps below for your code and spill type.

How To Clean By Code

Code W

Blot immediately with a clean white cloth.
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with lukewarm water.
Lightly dab the solution onto the spot. Do not oversaturate.
Blot with clean water to rinse.
Blot dry. Air dry completely. Brush nap if needed.

Code S

Blot immediately.
Apply a small amount of water free solvent to a clean white cloth.
Dab the spot gently. Work from outside in.
Allow to air dry. Repeat as needed.
Never use water, steam, or foam on S fabrics.

Code W/S

Start with the W method above.
If the stain persists, step up to a solvent as in S.
Rinse and dry as appropriate.

Code X

Vacuum regularly using an upholstery tool.
For spills or set in stains, contact a professional cleaner. Do not use liquids.

Stain Solutions Chart

Spill type	Code W steps	Code S steps	Code W/S steps	Code X steps
Coffee or tea	Blot, dab mild soap and water, rinse, dry	Use solvent only if fabric tag allows S. If not, stop.	Try W first, then solvent if needed	Professional only
Red wine or juice	Blot, apply mild soap and water, rinse, dry. Do not use heat.	Solvent dab, air dry	Try W then solvent	Professional only
Grease or salad dressing	Use a small drop of mild soap with warm water and a tiny amount of clear ammonia if allowed by maker. Rinse well.	Solvent dab, repeat as needed	Start with solvent. If allowed, finish with gentle W rinse	Professional only
Ink or marker	Dab with water sparingly. Specialized ink remover may be used on some W fabrics. Test first.	Solvent based ink remover. Test first.	Try solvent first. If safe, finish with light W rinse	Professional only
Pet accident	Blot thoroughly. Use enzyme cleaner labeled safe for W upholstery. Rinse and blot dry.	Solvent is not effective for protein stains. Blot only and call a pro if odor persists.	Use W enzyme approach. If residue remains, spot with solvent carefully.	Professional only
Makeup or lipstick	Mild soap and water, rinse, dry	Solvent. Do not use water.	Solvent first, then W rinse if needed	Professional only

Always check your product label. If uncertain, choose professional cleaning.

What Not To Do

Do not rub aggressively. Rubbing frays fibers and sets stains.
Do not oversaturate cushions. Moisture trapped in foam leads to mildew and rings.
Do not use colored cloths that can bleed dye. Use clean white cloths only.
Do not steam clean S or X fabrics.
Do not mix chemicals. Stick to one method at a time and test first.

Performance Fabrics and Leather

Performance fabrics often feature solution dyed yarns or built in stain barriers. Many are W or W/S and clean easily with mild soap and water.
Leather does not absorb odors like fabric and usually wipes clean. Use a manufacturer approved leather cleaner and periodic conditioner.

For help selecting a fabric that fits your life, see our Performance Fabric guide and Leather Benefits post, or visit our showroom for hands on comparisons.

When To Call A Professional

Code X fabrics
Large or set in stains
Odor issues from pet accidents
Silk, linen, rayon, or specialty weaves that require expert care

Shop Smarter At Keck Furniture

When you select upholstery with us, we will note the cleaning code on your order, send swatches home for real world testing, and recommend cleaners that match your fabric. Our goal is a beautiful sofa that is comfortable to live with long after delivery.