Contents
1. For Fabric Sofas (Cotton, Linen, Polyester)
2. For Microfiber Sofas
3. For Leather or Faux Leather Sofas
4. For Sectionals or Oversized Sofas
💡 Bonus: What About Odor Issues?
Not Sure What Type of Sofa You Have?
📍 Serving Washington DC, Arlington & Bethesda with Care
Let’s be honest, your sofa goes through a lot. Whether it’s movie night with snacks, muddy paws, spilled coffee, or just everyday lounging, your furniture collects dirt, dust, odors, and bacteria faster than you'd think.
If you’re in Washington DC, Arlington VA, or Bethesda MD, and wondering what type of upholstery cleaning is right for your couch, loveseat, or recliner, you’re in the right place. At Barex, we don’t just clean, we help you understand how to take care of your furniture based on its unique needs.
Let’s break it down

1. For Fabric Sofas (Cotton, Linen, Polyester)
These are super common and comfy, but also the ones that absorb everything.
Our recommendation:
Hot Water Extraction (Steam Cleaning): It’s safe, deep, and gets rid of stains, dust mites, and pet dander without damaging the fabric.
Best for:
- Everyday spills
- Pet owners
- Households with kids or allergies
📍 Popular in Arlington apartments and DC row houses, where fabric seating is the norm.
2. For Microfiber Sofas
Microfiber is stain-resistant, but not stain-proof. It traps oils (like from your skin), and eventually, the sofa starts looking patchy or greasy.
Our recommendation:
Low-moisture Encapsulation Cleaning: This method uses minimal water, lifts dirt from the fibers, and dries fast (less downtime!).
Best for:
- Spot-prone seating
- High-traffic family homes
🛑 Especially helpful in homes with active kids and indoor pets.
3. For Leather or Faux Leather Sofas
These look sleek and are easier to wipe down, but leather needs moisture balance. Too much water = damage. Too little care = cracks.
Our recommendation:
Specialized Leather Cleaning & Conditioning — We clean and rehydrate the material to keep it looking rich and smooth.
Best for:
- Statement furniture
- Home offices or formal living rooms
- Anyone who invested in that “dream couch” look
💼 Perfect for DC professionals with leather office seating or formal lounges
4. For Sectionals or Oversized Sofas
Big furniture = big surface area = more chances to trap dust, crumbs, and odors.
Our recommendation:
Combination Cleaning (Steam + Deodorizing) We bring in the full arsenal here. First deep clean, then neutralize odors.
Best for:
- Multi-cushion couches
- Open living rooms
- Movie or gaming lounges
🏠 We see these a lot in Arlington townhomes and Bethesda family homes.
💡 Bonus: What About Odor Issues?
If your sofa smells like last week’s takeout (or your dog), our deodorizing treatment is a game-changer. We use safe, enzyme-based products to neutralize odors without masking them with heavy fragrances.

🤔 Not Sure What Type of Sofa You Have?
No worries. Our techs are trained to assess materials on-site and recommend the best method. We’ll never upsell you or do something that could damage your furniture.
📍 Serving Washington DC, Arlington & Bethesda with Care
Whether you live in a studio in Dupont Circle, a family home in Arlington, or a quiet condo in Bethesda, our upholstery cleaning services are designed for you.
💬 Let’s Make Your Couch Feel New Again
Booking is easy, and our team is local, friendly, and fast. We even offer same-day appointments when available. Ready to give your furniture a fresh start?