Fabric & Bouclé Upholstery Care

The short answer: lightly vacuum your fabric or bouclé sofa every week with a soft brush, blot spills straight away with a damp cloth (never rub), keep it out of strong direct sun, and get professional advice before using any cleaner or fabric protector. These simple habits will keep your upholstery looking fresh in a busy Australian home.

Everyday care

These steps match the care instructions on our fabric product pages:

  • Lightly vacuum for general maintenance. Use a soft brush or upholstery attachment on a low setting, ideally once a week. This lifts dust, crumbs and grit before they work into the weave and wear the fibres.
  • Soak up stains by blotting with a damp cloth. Do not rub stains, as rubbing spreads them and can damage the surface.
  • For added protection, fabric care kits, cleaners and protectors are available. Before cleaning or treating any fabric, including applying fabric protection, we highly recommend getting professional advice.

Every piece is a little different, so always check the Care tab on your product page for any specific instructions.

What to do when you spill something

  1. Act quickly. The sooner you deal with a spill, the less chance it has to soak in.
  2. Lift off any solids gently with a spoon or blunt edge.
  3. Blot, do not rub. Press a clean, white, damp cloth onto the spill to soak it up. Work from the outside in so it does not spread.
  4. Use as little water as possible. Over-wetting can leave water rings or soak into the cushion filling.
  5. Let it air dry away from heaters and direct sun. Do not use a hair dryer.
  6. If the mark remains, stop and call a professional. Avoid household detergents, bleach, stain removers and abrasive products, as these can permanently damage or discolour fabric.

Bouclé and textured fabrics

Bouclé has a looped, nubby texture that feels soft and looks beautiful, but the loops can catch more easily than a flat weave.

  • Vacuum with a soft brush only, and avoid stiff bristles or beater bars.
  • Keep sharp objects, jewellery, zips, Velcro and belt buckles away from the surface.
  • If a loop pulls, do not cut or pull it. Gently ease it back, or contact us for advice.
  • Lighter bouclé shows marks more readily, so regular vacuuming and quick blotting make a big difference.

Pilling is normal

Pilling is when small balls of fibre form on the surface where the fabric rubs most, such as seat cushions and arms. It is common with many upholstery fabrics, particularly in the first months of use, and it is a normal part of wear, not a fault. Light pilling can usually be removed carefully with a fabric shaver or de-piller. If you are unsure, ask a professional upholstery cleaner before trying.

Rotate and plump your cushions

Most of us have a favourite spot on the sofa. Rotating and flipping removable cushions (where the design allows) and plumping them regularly helps them wear evenly and hold their shape. Over time, cushioning will naturally soften with use, which is normal.

Sun and heat

Australian sun is strong, and UV light fades fabric over time, even through glass. Where you can:

  • Position your sofa out of strong direct sunlight, or use blinds or curtains during the brightest part of the day.
  • Keep upholstery away from heaters, fireplaces and air conditioning vents.
  • Rotate cushions and throws so any fading is more even.

Pets, kids and everyday life

  • Pets: claws can snag and pull fabric, especially bouclé and loose weaves. A throw over your pet's favourite spot and regular vacuuming to remove hair will help.
  • Belt buckles, studs and zips: these can snag or rub the surface, so take care when sitting down.
  • Denim and dark clothing: new denim can transfer dye onto light fabrics.
  • Food and drinks: a tray or side table makes life easier on lighter fabrics.
  • Sitting on arms and backs: these are not designed to take a person's weight and can lose shape.

When to call a professional cleaner

We recommend getting professional advice before you clean or treat any fabric. It is a good idea to call an upholstery cleaning professional if:

  • A spill or stain has not lifted with gentle blotting.
  • You would like to apply a fabric protector.
  • The whole piece needs a deep clean.
  • You are not sure what cleaning method suits your fabric.

Let them know the fabric type shown on your product page, and ask them to test any method on a hidden area first.

Indoor use only

Unless a product is marked as part of our outdoor collection, our fabric furniture is designed for indoor use only. Indoor upholstery used outdoors or exposed to the elements, even undercover, is not covered by our warranty.

What is and is not covered

Our 12 month warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, but it does not cover fabric or leather (upholstery). To the extent permitted by law, we are also not liable for damage caused by:

  • Incorrect cleaning or the wrong cleaning products, including sun damage, abrasives and detergents.
  • Misuse or accidents, such as spills and stains.
  • Lack of maintenance.
  • Normal wear and tear, including fading, pilling of fabric and softening of cushioning.

Over time, regular use naturally softens fabric and can cause fading or changes in appearance. This is a normal part of ageing. Your rights under the Australian Consumer Law still apply to all our products, including fabric. If you have a problem with your upholstery, please still get in touch by emailing info@futureclassicsfurniture.com.au with photos and your proof of purchase.

See What is not covered by the warranty? in our Help Centre for full details.

More care guides and help

Looking for a new sofa? Browse our fabric sofas or the full sofa range, or visit our Sydney and Melbourne showrooms to feel the fabrics in person.