Faux fur chairs add soft, stylish comfort to living spaces, but keeping them clean can be challenging. This guide provides practical, safe steps for American households to refresh faux fur upholstery without damaging fibers or backing. Readers will find a clear, step-by-step process and product recommendations that fit common DIY routines.
Quick Answer
Quick method: Vacuum with a upholstery attachment, treat stains with enzyme stain remover, brush gently, and finish with a fabric steamer or lint roller. For stubborn odors, repeat with a faux fur chair upholstery cleaner spray and allow to air dry completely.
A Practical Starter Kit
The following tools cover routine cleaning, stain treatment, and refreshing brushing. They’re designed to work with most faux fur chair fabrics in American homes.
- Faux fur chair upholstery cleaner spray
- Enzyme pet stain remover for faux fur upholstery
- Upholstery vacuum attachment crevice tool for faux fur chair
- Fabric steamer for faux fur chair cleaning
- Lint roller for faux fur upholstery
Before You Start
Check the manufacturer care label on the chair for any specific instructions. Test any cleaner on a hidden area first to confirm colorfastness. Work in a well-ventilated space and protect surrounding furniture from moisture. Plan for a thorough dry time, typically 2–6 hours depending on humidity and fabric thickness. Never saturate faux fur with water or cleaner. Always blot liquid spills promptly to prevent matting.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Faux Fur Chair
- Remove loose debris with a vacuum using the upholstery attachment to lift dust and crumbs from the fur fibers.
- Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel, avoiding rubbing which can push stains deeper.
- Apply enzyme cleaner sparingly to any organic stains (food, urine). Follow label directions and avoid soaking the backing.
- Treat embedded odors with an enzyme pet stain remover designed for faux fur upholstery, letting it sit per product guidelines before blotting.
- Gently lift embedded dirt with the upholstery vacuum attachment crevice tool for faux fur chair, focusing on base of fibers and seams.
- Brush and refresh fibers using a soft brush or a small pet brush to restore nap after cleaning; brush in the direction of the fur
- Steam for gentle lift run a fabric steamer for faux fur chair cleaning from a safe distance to relax fibers, never directly contact the fabric with the hot plate.
- Final touch with lint roller to remove remaining loose fibers and restore a tidy look.
- Allow full air-dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat or sunlight; ensure the fur is completely dry before use.
- Reassess and repeat if stains or odors persist, repeating the appropriate steps with cleaner spray or enzyme remover as needed.
- Preventative routine schedule monthly quick cleanings to maintain fluffiness and prevent buildup.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stains reappear after cleaning | Stain remained in backing or nap | Reapply enzyme cleaner to stain area and re-blot; consider repeat cleaning | Address spills promptly; avoid crowding with heavy fabrics |
| Nap looks matted | Improper brushing or moisture exposure | Gently brush in direction of fur; allow to dry completely and fluff with hands | Brush regularly; keep moisture away |
| Softer nap after steam | Over-wetting or heat exposure | Let dry thoroughly; use lower steam setting | Avoid high heat; keep steamer at a distance |
| Odor persists | Deep-set odor or residue | Reapply enzyme remover and vent area; repeat if necessary | Clean promptly after spills to prevent odor buildup |
Common Mistakes
- Using excessive water or soaking the fabric
- Rubbing stains, which can push dirt deeper
- Using harsh cleaners not suited for faux fur
- Skipping a drying period, leading to mold or mildew
Tips For Best Results
- Test any product on an inconspicuous area before full application
- Vacuum before any cleaning to remove loose debris and reduce staining risk
- Brush fibers regularly to maintain fluffiness between cleanings
- Use a lint roller after cleaning to lift lingering fibers and dust
- Rotate cushions or seats if possible to equalize wear
Call A Professional
If the chair has delicate backing, extensive staining, or persistent odor after multiple cleanings, consider professional upholstery cleaning. Signs to stop and seek help include dye transfer, fabric distortion, or backing separation. A pro can safely deep-clean without compromising the fur’s texture.
FAQ
What should I use first to clean faux fur chair?
Begin with a vacuum attachment to remove loose debris, then treat spots with an enzyme cleaner or faux fur upholstery spray if needed.
Can I use a steam cleaner on faux fur chairs?
A light fabric steamer can refresh nap, but keep it at a safe distance and avoid saturating the fabric.
How do I remove pet odors from faux fur upholstery?
Use an enzyme pet stain remover designed for faux fur, following product directions and allowing proper dry time.
Is it safe to wash a faux fur chair cover in a washing machine?
Most faux fur chair materials should not be machine-washed unless the care label explicitly allows it; follow manufacturer instructions.
How often should I clean faux fur chairs?
Light maintenance can be done monthly; deeper cleanings every few months help maintain appearance and hygiene.
Buying Guide
When selecting products for cleaning a faux fur chair, consider size and accessibility of the chair, the nap length of the faux fur, and the backing type. Look for gentle, fabric-safe cleaners and enzyme-based stain removers designed for pet-related accidents. A dedicated upholstery vacuum attachment helps reach seams and bases, while a fabric steamer provides a safe refresh without soaking fibers. A lint roller aids in final finishing, and a soft brush keeps nap fluffy between cleanings. Noise level, energy efficiency, and ease of storage are practical factors for at-home use, especially in small apartments.
Key buying factors include:
- <bSize and fit: Ensure tools like vacuum attachments are compatible with the chair dimensions and leg clearance.
- <bNoisiness and ease: Quiet cleaning tools improve usability in living rooms and bedrooms.
- <bEnergy efficiency: Choose steamers and vacuums with energy-saving modes for regular use.
- <bControls and versatility: Look for simple spray bottles, adjustable steam settings, and easy replacement parts.
- <bPlacement and storage: Compact, stackable tools fit smaller spaces and apartments.
Considering these factors helps ensure a practical cleaning routine that preserves the look and feel of faux fur chairs while maintaining indoor cleanliness. If in doubt, consult the chair’s care label and test cleaners in hidden areas first.


