How to Remove Grease Stains from Upholstered Furniture?

Grease stains on upholstered furniture are one of the most frustrating household problems. Whether it’s a splash of cooking oil, buttery popcorn, pizza grease, or body oils from daily use, grease has a way of soaking deep into fabric fibers and leaving behind dark, stubborn marks. If not treated properly, these stains can permanently damage your couch, chairs, or dining furniture. The good news? With the right approach, many grease stains can be removed or significantly reduced. In this guide, you’ll learn how to remove grease stains from upholstered furniture safely and effectively, using both DIY methods and professional solutions. We’ll also explain when it’s best to rely on high-quality upholstery cleaning services to protect your furniture investment.

Why Grease Stains Are So Difficult to Remove

Grease stains behave differently from water-based stains like juice or coffee. Oil molecules repel water, which means simply blotting with a damp cloth often spreads the stain instead of removing it. Common reasons grease stains are stubborn include:

• Oils penetrate deep into fabric fibers
• Heat sets grease stains permanently
• Rubbing pushes grease further into upholstery
• Using the wrong cleaner can cause discoloration

Understanding how grease interacts with fabric is the first step toward removing it correctly.

Step 1: Identify Your Upholstery Fabric

Before applying any cleaning solution, check the upholstery care label (usually found under cushions or on the furniture frame). Look for these codes:

• W– Water-based cleaners are safe
• S– Solvent-based cleaners only (no water)
• WS– Both water- and solvent-based cleaners are safe
• X– Vacuum only; professional cleaning recommended

If your furniture is marked with X, skip DIY methods and contact professional upholstery cleaners immediately.

Step 2: Act Quickly (Fresh Stains Are Easier)

The sooner you treat a grease stain, the better your chances of removing it completely. Fresh grease sits on the surface, while older stains oxidize and bond with fibers.

What to Do Immediately:

• Blot gently with a clean paper towel
• Do NOT rub the stain
• Avoid adding water right away

Step 3: Absorb Excess Grease

Before using any liquid cleaner, absorb as much grease as possible.

Best Grease-Absorbing Options:

• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• Talcum powder

How to Use:

• Sprinkle a generous amount over the stain
• Let it sit for 15–30 minutes (longer for heavy stains)
• Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery attachment

This step alone can dramatically reduce the appearance of grease stains.

Step 4: DIY Cleaning Methods for Grease Stains

Method 1: Dish Soap Solution (For W or WS Fabrics)

Dish soap is designed to cut through grease, making it ideal for upholstery.

What You’ll Need:

• Mild liquid dish soap
• Warm water
• White cloth or sponge

Steps:

• Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water
• Dab the solution onto the stain (do not soak)
• Blot gently from the outside inward
• Rinse lightly with a damp cloth
• Air dry completely

⚠️ Avoid colored cloths, as dye may transfer.

Method 2: White Vinegar & Dish Soap Combo

For tougher grease stains, vinegar helps break down oil residue.

Steps:

• Mix 1 cup warm water, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap
• Apply gently using a sponge
• Blot until the stain fades
• Rinse lightly and dry

Method 3: Rubbing Alcohol (For S or WS Fabrics)

Solvent-based cleaners like rubbing alcohol work well on oil stains.

Steps:

• Test on an inconspicuous area first
• Apply rubbing alcohol to a cloth
• Dab the stain carefully
• Allow it to evaporate naturally

This method is especially effective for synthetic fabrics.

Step 5: Treat Set-In or Old Grease Stains

Older grease stains require patience and multiple treatments.

Tips for Old Stains:

• Repeat absorption and cleaning steps
• Allow fabric to fully dry between attempts
• Avoid heat from hair dryers or steam

If the stain remains visible after multiple attempts, professional help is usually the safest option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many upholstery stains become permanent due to cleaning errors. Avoid these mistakes:

• Scrubbing aggressively
• Using bleach or harsh chemicals
• Over-wetting the fabric
• Using steam on grease stains
• Skipping fabric testing

These mistakes can cause fading, water rings, or fabric damage.

When to Choose Professional Upholstery Cleaning

Sometimes DIY methods aren’t enough-especially for delicate fabrics, large stains, or expensive furniture. That’s when high-quality upholstery cleaning services make a real difference.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning:

• Specialized grease-removal solutions
• Fabric-safe cleaning techniques
• Deep extraction without over-wetting
• Odor removal and fabric restoration
• Longer furniture lifespan

Professional cleaners understand fabric chemistry and use equipment designed to remove grease without damaging upholstery.

How Professionals Remove Grease Stains

Professional upholstery cleaners typically follow a structured process:

• Fabric inspection and stain analysis
• Targeted grease pre-treatment
• Low-moisture or solvent cleaning
• Controlled extraction
• Fabric grooming and drying

This approach delivers results that are difficult to achieve with home remedies alone.

Preventing Future Grease Stains

Prevention is always easier than cleaning. Here are simple steps to protect your upholstered furniture:

• Use washable throws or covers
• Avoid eating greasy foods on fabric furniture
• Clean spills immediately
• Vacuum upholstery weekly
• Schedule professional upholstery cleaning annually

Final Thoughts

Grease stains don’t have to ruin your upholstered furniture. With quick action, proper absorption, and safe cleaning methods, many stains can be removed at home. However, for stubborn, set-in, or delicate fabric stains, trusting high-quality upholstery cleaning services is the smartest way to restore your furniture safely and effectively. Regular maintenance and professional care not only keep your furniture looking great but also extend its life-saving you money in the long run.