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by CLC Extreme Clean – Ruidoso, New Mexico
If you’ve ever looked closely at the tag on your sofa or chair, you might have noticed a small letter code that’s easy to overlook. Those upholstery cleaning codes are more important than most homeowners realize. They’re designed to protect your furniture and guide the proper cleaning method. Using the wrong approach could cause shrinking, discoloration, water rings, or even permanent fabric damage. Where to Find the Code Upholstery cleaning codes are set by the furniture manufacturer and are usually found under seat cushions or along the frame. Each code tells you which cleaning methods are safe for that specific fabric. The most common codes are W, S, WS (or SW), and X. What the Codes Mean W – Water-Based Cleaning A “W” code means the fabric can be cleaned using water-based solutions such as mild detergents or professional upholstery shampoos. However, that doesn’t mean soaking the fabric is safe! Too much moisture can seep into the cushions or backing and cause browning, odors, or even mold growth. Controlled application and proper drying are key. S – Solvent Cleaning Only An “S” code means water could harm the fabric. These materials must be cleaned using solvent-based products. Water can cause shrinking, rings, or texture changes. Many natural fibers and delicate weaves fall into this category—making professional care essential. At CLC Extreme Clean, we have the right solvents and training to clean these fabrics safely. WS (or SW) – Water or Solvent Cleaning This flexible code means that either water-based or solvent-based methods can be used. However, caution still matters. Always test in an inconspicuous area first, and never scrub aggressively or over wet the fabric. X – Vacuum Only The most restrictive code of all—“X”—means no water or solvents should ever be used. Light vacuuming or gentle brushing is the only recommended maintenance. Attempting to spot clean X-coded fabrics often results in irreversible damage. Why Professional Help Matters Reading the tag is just the first step. Fabric age, previous cleanings, wear, and even hidden construction materials can affect how upholstery reacts. That’s why two chairs that look alike may require very different treatments. At CLC Extreme Clean, we’re trained to:
Because when it comes to upholstery… It pays to call a pro! 575-937-4385 Water Damage Tips from CLC Extreme Clean
Water damage doesn’t always come from a major disaster. A tipped coffee mug, a leaking pipe, or a sudden storm can soak books, files, and loose papers just as easily as a flood. What matters most is how quickly — and carefully — you respond. The same general approach works whether you’re dealing with a single damp folder or a box of saturated books, with small adjustments depending on how wet the materials are. If you can’t begin drying immediately, freezing is a practical way to buy time. Wrap wet books or stacks of documents in plastic and place them in a freezer. This helps stop further deterioration and slows mold growth. It’s especially useful when you have more items than you can handle at once. Before freezing, allow excess water to drip off if possible — but never squeeze books or force pages apart. For thoroughly soaked items, let gravity do some of the work. Stand books upright on their head or tail and place thick paper towels just inside the covers. Keep the pages closed at this stage, since wet paper tears easily. As the towels absorb moisture, replace them with dry ones. Place a towel or tray underneath to catch runoff and protect surfaces. Once materials are no longer dripping but still wet, you can move to more active drying. Insert paper towels between sections of pages rather than between every page to avoid warping. For loose documents, lay them flat with absorbent paper above and below. Check them frequently and replace damp towels as needed. When pages reach a slightly damp stage and feel more stable, gentle airflow can help complete the process. Spread pages just enough to allow air circulation. A room fan or natural airflow works well. Avoid heat, strong blasts of air, or direct sunlight, as these can cause curling, cracking, ink bleeding, or uneven drying. Before items dry completely, bring them back together to help maintain their shape. Close books with clean paper towels still inside the covers and lay them flat with a light weight on top. Stack documents neatly between absorbent sheets and apply gentle pressure. Covers, bindings, folds, and edges take longer to dry, so inspect these areas carefully. Overlooked moisture can lead to long-term damage or mold growth. If any type of water damage occurs in your home — especially beyond a small spill — it’s best to contact a trusted restoration professional. At CLC Extreme Clean, we’re equipped to handle water damage quickly and thoroughly to protect your property and belongings. Because when it comes to water damage… It pays to call a pro! 575-937-4385 |
ATTENTION:This is Cody The Carpet Cleaner. Please be aware that I offer a high-end cleaning service. I understand that as a student or renter price is very important, but this is not a "Quicky-Budget" option. I perform a minimum of 7 steps to insure quality results.If your primary goal is quality please give me a call 575-937-4385. Thank You. Archives
February 2026
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