6 Ways to Remove Stains From Thrift Finds, According to Pros

So you’ve hit the jackpot at the thrift store and found the vintage sofa of your dreams at a deep discount. But then you spot something that could turn this scene into a nightmare—an ugly stain on the fabric that looks at least half as old as the furniture itself.

With a bit of patience and the right cleaning technique, there’s an excellent chance you can remove the stain, revive the fabric, and enjoy your “new” furniture for years to come. Below, we’re sharing six foolproof ways to remove stains from thrifted store finds.

Identify the Fabric and Stain

Your success in removing stains from thrifted furniture will largely depend on knowing what the stain and fabric are made from, Clint Collins, the owner of HFR Furniture Rental & Sales, says. For example, an oil-based stain on satin will need to be treated differently than a dye-based stain on suede, he says.

Here’s what he suggests for tackling some common stains:

• Oil-based: Apply a bit of dish soap to the stain. Gently rub it in, then let it sit for five to 10 minutes before cleaning.
• Wine or tannin-based stains: Dab the stain with a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and water. You could also opt for a dedicated stain remover.
• Protein-based stains: If possible, soak the fabric in cold water. Then, make a paste of baking soda and cold water. Apply to the stain, then let it sit for around 10 minutes before cleaning.
• Dye stains: Dab with rubbing alcohol or a dedicated stain remover.

If you’re in luck and the care label is still attached, follow it to the letter. You could also ask the thrift shop sales associate if they know the backstory on the stain. Otherwise, a gentle approach is always recommended. 

Collins suggests pre-treating any stain by dabbing or blotting it with a white cloth or rag which will help extract any surface-level stain. It will also help you better see what the source of the stain is if you’re not entirely sure.

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Use a Mild Cleanser on Upholstery

If the stains are on removable covers, Passalacqua says it might be as easy as tossing them into the wash on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. But for non-removable fabric, he recommends diluting a gentle upholstery cleaner with water. Apply to the stains, then scrub lightly with a soft brush.

Taylor Riley, the founder of Impact Cleaning Professionals and Boom. Facility Service Advisors, recommends Folex Instant Carpet Spot Remover. Despite the name, Riley explains how it’s great for upholstery. He’s even tested it against commercial-grade products and found the Folex to be just as effective. 

“This product is inexpensive, easy to use, and, most importantly, capable of removing old, dried-in stains,” he says, which makes it perfect for cleaning thrifted furniture.

Just follow the simple directions on the bottle, then let the upholstery dry before using it. It’s worth noting that Riley also tested the Folex cleaner out on carpet stains—notably mustard, coffee, ketchup, and red wine—with excellent results.

Clean Only With a White Microfiber Cloth

Microfiber cloths come in a rainbow of colors, but make sure you grab a plain white one if you’re cleaning furniture, vintage or otherwise. This is especially important when blotting the stain after applying any solution.

“The white towel eliminates the possibility of colors leaching from the towel itself, further staining the upholstery,” Riley says.

While any white cloth or towel can be used in a pinch, microfiber is ideal because it can pull out the moisture when blotting dry, Riley says.

Always Spot Test First

Don’t ignore this common cleaning refrain when attempting to salvage a great vintage piece. Collins recommends testing any cleaning or pretreatment solution in an inconspicuous spot, if possible.

“This way if the solution isn’t going to work, it doesn’t make the stain worse or more noticeable,” he says.

Air Dry for Best Results

Joseph Passalacqua, the CEO of Maid Sailors, recommends letting upholstery items air dry fully after cleaning to prevent any shrinkage or warping. For anything small or removable, like couch covers, he suggests using the lowest heat setting and tossing in a couple of dryer balls if you have to use a dryer.

Hire a Cleaning Pro When Needed

If the stain on your new vintage furniture remains stubborn, it can be tempting to reach for a harsher chemical cleanser. Don’t do it, Collins says. Instead, look to a pro who’s done this dance before.

“It wouldn’t hurt to hire a professional cleaner, especially for some specialized fabrics or furniture items,” he says.