Sofa cleaning codes explained: W, S, WS and X
Every sofa, armchair and dining chair sold in the UK has a cleaning code on the label — usually under the seat cushion. That code determines whether hot-water extraction, dry solvent or nothing at all is safe. Here's the full breakdown.
W — water-based cleaning
Safe with water-based extraction. Most modern fabric sofas — polyester blends, cotton blends, most microfibres — carry a W code. This is the code hot-water extraction is designed for and gives the deepest clean of any method.
S — solvent only
Water will stain, shrink or ring-mark the fabric. Only a dry-cleaning solvent method is safe. Common on velvet, some linens and older upholstery. We'll patch-test and switch to a low-moisture method rather than risk the fabric.
WS or SW — either method
Both water-based and solvent methods are safe. Most premium modern sofas carry WS. Gives you the widest choice of cleaning approach.
X — vacuum only
No wet or solvent cleaning. Vacuum only. Rare, but occasionally seen on delicate silks, some heritage fabrics or restored antiques. We'll always decline rather than damage an X-coded piece.
Can't find the code?
Lift the seat cushion and check under the front of the frame. If there's no label, we do a small hidden patch test before treating any visible area — belt-and-braces protection for older or reupholstered pieces.
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