How to Care for Upholstery and Cushion Covers When the Heat Rolls In

It’s not just outdoor cushions that need attention during the summer heat. Even indoor cushions can suffer when temperatures soar. Strong sunlight streaming through windows can fade fabrics, high humidity can leave them feeling musty, and frequent use in the warmer months can lead to stains, sweat marks, and general wear.

While summer heat can’t be avoided, its effects on your furniture can be. In this article, let’s go over the most effective ways to protect your upholstery during the hotter months.

Give Fabrics Room to Breathe

Trapped heat and moisture can cause musty odors, weaken fabric fibers, and even invite mildew. By simply creating a little breathing space, you help your furniture last longer and smell fresher. This is especially important for pieces that sit against walls, near windows, or in tight corners.

Key Things to Remember

Pull furniture away from walls by at least 2–3 inches so air can circulate.
Avoid stacking cushions tightly in storage; leave gaps for ventilation.
Use ceiling or floor fans to keep air moving around seating areas.
Keep vents clear so airflow isn’t blocked by furniture or décor.

Spot-clean Before Stains Set

Summer heat can “set” a stain faster than you might expect, especially if sunlight or warm air speeds up drying. Whether it’s a coffee drip, BBQ sauce smudge, or sunscreen mark, the key is to act fast. Waiting even a few hours can make the stain removal process harder and sometimes permanent.

How to Spot-clean Effectively

Blot, don’t rub – use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to lift liquid before it spreads.
Mix a mild cleaner by combining a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water.
Test in a hidden spot to make sure the cleaner won’t damage the fabric.
Apply gently using a clean cloth, working from the outside of the stain inward.
Dry thoroughly with a towel or fan to prevent moisture from soaking deeper.

Keep a Summer-friendly Fabric Spray on Hand

Odors build up quickly in summer, and a light misting with a safe, fabric-friendly spray can make a huge difference. A good summer spray not only freshens the scent but can also help reduce bacteria growth on fabrics. It’s an easy, low-effort way to give your space an instant lift between deep cleanings.

Make or Choose the Right Spray

DIY mix: Combine 1 cup water, 1 tablespoon vinegar, and 5 drops of essential oil (lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus).
Lightly mist upholstery from about 12 inches away; don’t soak the fabric.
Avoid strong chemicals like bleach or ammonia, which can discolor fabric.
Store spray in a cool, dry spot to preserve its scent and effectiveness.

Vacuum Between Cushions Weekly

Heat and humidity make odors stronger, especially if there are crumbs, pet hair, or dust trapped inside your furniture. By vacuuming between and under cushions once a week, you cut down on the debris that can cause smells and wear. This is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your upholstery.

Expert Tips for Upholstery Vacuuming

Remove cushions when possible to get to the hidden areas.
Use an upholstery brush attachment to loosen dirt without damaging fabric.
Switch to the crevice tool for tight seams and corners.
Work slowly, as rushing can leave behind debris.
Check filters on your vacuum cleaner so suction stays strong.

Protect Against Sun Fading

Direct sunlight can fade fabric colors and weaken fibers over time. Summer’s longer days mean your upholstery is exposed to more UV rays, especially if it’s near a window. Even high-quality fabric isn’t immune to fading, so prevention is key.

Ways to Reduce Sun Damage

Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours.
Use sheer panels to filter light without darkening the room completely.
Rearrange furniture so the same spot isn’t always in direct sunlight.
Consider UV-protective window film for heavily exposed areas.

Rotate and Fluff for Even Wear

Just like turning a mattress, rotating your cushions helps them wear evenly. In summer, when fabric is more likely to trap body oils and moisture, rotation also keeps any one area from bearing the brunt of daily use. Fluffing keeps cushions looking full and prevents flattened spots.

Rotation and Fluffing Guide

Turn cushions weekly, switch positions if they’re reversible.
Fluff by hand to redistribute the filling evenly.
Pat down corners to keep shapes crisp.
Switch seat cushions between high-use and low-use spots.

Keep Humidity Under Control

Humidity is one of upholstery’s biggest enemies in summer. Moist air seeps into fabric, encouraging mold, mildew, and musty smells. By keeping indoor humidity at a comfortable level, you protect both the look and the health of your furniture.

Ways to Reduce Humidity Around Upholstery

Run a dehumidifier in rooms with poor airflow.
Use ceiling fans to keep air moving.
Keep windows closed during high-humidity days.
Check for hidden dampness under and behind cushions regularly.

Quick Tip: Aim for 40–50% indoor humidity, low enough to stop mold but high enough for comfort.

Contact Marberry Cleaners and Launderers for Professional Upholstery and Cushion Cleaning!

Indoor upholstery and cushion covers naturally absorb humidity, body oils, and everyday dust, which, if left untreated, can lead to odors, fading, and long-term wear. The good news is you don’t have to handle it on your own.

At Marberry Cleaners and Launderers, we’ve been helping Illinois families protect their home essentials since the 1960s, using eco-friendly, fabric-safe methods that penetrate deep into fibers without causing damage. With three convenient locations in St. Charles, Geneva, and Lombard, plus FREE Pickup and Delivery Service, caring for your upholstery has never been easier or more timely.

Our family-owned team will ensure your cushions, slipcovers, and decorative fabrics look and feel as fresh as your favorite outfit. Summer is short, so let’s work together to keep your home looking its very best all season long.

Call us today at 630-912-9206 to schedule your Household Items Cleaning Service.