• Take care when cleaning upholstered fabric so as not to damage the fibers.sofa set image by Ritu Jethani from Fotolia.com
  
  Upholstered furniture like sofas and love seats are difficult to clean properly if something has spilled on them because they're soft, so you can't simply wipe them clean or clean them with harsh chemicals that can destroy the fibers of the fabric. Many products are available for homeowners to use on these delicate surfaces.
  
  

Steam Cleaners

• Steam cleaners are traditionally thought of as carpet cleaning tools, but they generally include smaller attachments used to clean all of the areas of upholstered furniture. You can purchase a steam cleaner at a cleaning supply store, and, in some cases, rent one at a hardware or grocery store. Steam cleaners are used for removing stains or for routine cleaning and deodorizing of upholstery.
  
  

Baby Wipes

• Baby wipes are an excellent nonabrasive cleaning tool for removing stains from upholstery. They're moist and soft, and can sanitize and deodorize stains without soaking the affected area.
  
  

Scotchgard Spot Remover

• Scotchgard Spot Remover is a product designed to apply directly to upholstery stains. The product is a foam that doesn't require rinsing; simply wipe it away with a cloth. According to its manufacturer, Scotchgard Spot Remover is safe for fabrics that are cleaned with water, but test the spot remover on a hidden area of the upholstery before using it to ensure it does not cause damage.
  
  

Woolite Upholstery Cleaner

• Most commercial cleansers that come in a foam are gentle enough to use on upholstery, but still read the label first. Woolite manufactures an upholstery cleaner that comes in a foam. The foam is applied and left to sit for the amount of time specified on the packaging and wiped away with a soft cloth. If any cleaner residue remains, dab the spot with vinegar and a soft cloth to remove it.
  
  

OxiClean

• OxiClean is a commercial cleaner used on fabrics and upholstery. Because it is a powder, dissolve it completely in warm water before using so that the abrasive powder does not degrade the fabric. Apply the OxiClean to the upholstery with a soft cloth and follow the manufacturer's instructions for how long to leave it on the furniture.