In St. Louis, MO, professional upholstery cleaning services typically cost between $75 and $300 per piece, depending on factors like the type of fabric, size of furniture, and cleaning method used. A simple dining chair might cost as little as $10 to $30, while a large sectional sofa can run $300 or more.

But what exactly determines the cost? And how can you keep your furniture looking fresh between cleanings? In this guide, we’ll dive deep into upholstery cleaning service costs, what to expect from experienced professionals, and how to maintain your furniture like a pro. 

If you’re looking for an upholstery cleaning professional near you, Carpet Advisors can connect you with an experienced company in your area. 

Factors That Impact the Average Cost of Upholstery Cleaning in St. Louis, MO

When you schedule an upholstery cleaning service, the price isn’t just a flat rate. Several factors influence how much you’ll pay, from the type of fabric to labor costs in your area.

1. Type of Upholstery Fabric

The material of your furniture plays a big role in cleaning costs. Some fabrics are easy to clean, while others require delicate handling and special cleaning solutions.

• Cotton & Linen ($75 to $150): Breathable and soft but prone to stains. Requires gentle cleaning.
• Microfiber & Polyester ($75 to $150): Durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean.
• Velvet & Silk ($100 to $250): Luxurious but delicate, requiring dry cleaning or special treatment.
• Leather ($100 to $300): Needs cleaning, conditioning, and protection to avoid cracking.

The more delicate or high-end the fabric, the more careful and time-consuming the cleaning process will be, which adds to the cost.

2. Size and Type of Furniture

Larger furniture means more surface area to clean, which translates to higher costs. Here’s a breakdown of average pricing:

✔ Dining Chairs: $10 – $30 per chair
✔ Recliners & Armchairs: $50 – $100
✔ Loveseats: $80 – $150
✔ Standard Sofas: $100 – $250
✔ Sectional Sofas: $150 – $300+

A single chair may not be expensive, but if you’re cleaning an entire set of furniture, costs can add up quickly.

3. Cleaning Method Used

Different cleaning techniques are used based on fabric type, stains, and overall dirt buildup. Here’s a look at the most common ones:

• Steam Cleaning (Hot Water Extraction): Deep cleans by injecting hot water and detergent into the fabric, then extracting dirt. Steam cleaning generally costs between $100 to $250.
• Dry Cleaning: Dry cleaning costs between $75 to $200, uses minimal moisture and a special solvent for delicate fabrics. 
• Foam Cleaning: Uses foam detergent that lifts dirt without over-wetting the fabric. It costs between $100 to $250.
• Encapsulation Cleaning: Encapsulation cleaning is a form of chemical cleaning that crystallizes dirt for easy removal and costs between $100 to $200.

4. Stain Removal & Extra Treatments

Stubborn stains like pet urine, ink, or grease require extra treatments, which can add $20 to $50 per stain. Some companies also offer fabric protection like Scotchgard, which costs $20 to $50 per piece.

5. Location & Labor Costs

Prices can vary depending on where you live. If you’re in downtown St. Louis, labor and service costs may be slightly higher compared to suburban areas.

What to Expect from an Upholstery Cleaning Service

When you schedule a professional upholstery cleaning service, you might wonder what the process entails. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare your home and ensure the best results. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens during an upholstery cleaning appointment:

1. Initial Inspection & Assessment

Before any cleaning begins, a professional technician will assess your furniture. They’ll check for:

• Stains and Spots: Identifying the type of stain (food, pet, ink, etc.) to determine the best treatment.
• Fabric Type: Different materials (leather, microfiber, cotton, linen) require different cleaning methods.
• Existing Damage: Checking for wear and tear, fabric weaknesses, or color fading that may affect cleaning.

2. Pre-Treatment Process

• The technician may vacuum the furniture to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair.
• A spot treatment is applied to tough stains to loosen grime before deep cleaning.

3. Deep Cleaning Process

Depending on your upholstery type and cleaning package, your technician will use one of the following methods:

• Hot Water Extraction (Steam Cleaning)
• Dry Cleaning
• Foam Cleaning
• Encapsulation Cleaning

4. Deodorizing & Sanitization (Optional Services)

If you’ve chosen an add-on package, professionals might also:

• Apply a deodorizer to eliminate pet and smoke odors.
• Use a fabric protector to prevent future stains and extend the life of your upholstery.

5. Drying & Final Inspection

• After cleaning, your furniture will need a few hours to fully dry, depending on the method used.
• The technician will perform a final inspection with you to ensure you’re satisfied with the results.

A professional upholstery cleaning service restores your furniture’s beauty, improves indoor air quality, and extends the lifespan of your upholstery. Investing in professional cleaning a few times a year ensures a healthier, fresher home.

How to Maintain Your Upholstery Between Visits?

Let’s be honest, no one wants their upholstery to ruin the appearance of their entire home in between regular cleanings. Luckily, there are simple ways to keep your furniture clean between deep cleanings.

1. Vacuum Weekly

Use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to remove dust, pet hair, and dirt before they settle deep into the fabric.

2. Spot Clean Spills Immediately

Blot (Don’t Rub!) spills with a clean, dry cloth. Rubbing can push stains deeper into the fabric. However, for tough stains, we recommend calling a professional to prevent the stain from becoming permanent.

3. Rotate & Fluff Cushions

Rotating and fluffing seat cushions prevents uneven wear and sagging, keeping your furniture looking newer for longer.

4. Keep Pets Off Furniture (If Possible!)

If your pets love your sofa as much as you do, consider using washable covers or blankets to protect it from fur, dirt, and claws.

Frequently Asked Questions About Upholstery Cleaning

Q: How often should I get my upholstery cleaned?

A: Most experts recommend a professional cleaning every 12-24 months, or more frequently if you have kids or pets.

Q: Will upholstery cleaning remove pet odors?

A: Yes! Professional cleaning eliminates pet dander and odors for a fresher home.

Q: Is steam cleaning safe for all fabrics?

A: No. Delicate fabrics like silk and velvet require dry cleaning to prevent damage.

Q: Does upholstery cleaning shrink fabric?

A: Not if done correctly. Professional cleaners use the right moisture levels to prevent shrinkage.

Q: Can all stains be removed?

A: Most stains can be significantly reduced, but some permanent stains may only lighten with treatment.

Keep Your Home Neat and Clean With Exceptional Upholstery Cleaning Services

A fresh, clean sofa not only looks great but also improves indoor air quality and extends the life of your furniture. Upholstery cleaning services in St. Louis, MO typically range from $75 to $300, with the cost depending on factors like fabric type, furniture size, and cleaning method.

At Carpet Advisors, we specialize in connecting you with high-quality upholstery cleaning services to keep your furniture looking brand new. Whether you need a simple chair cleaning or a deep-clean for an entire sectional, we’ve got you covered.

Call Carpet Advisors today for a free quote and experience the best upholstery cleaning service in St. Louis!