W, S, W-S… What’s it all about?

November 17, 2009 · Posted in Upholstery fabrics

We got quite a bit of traffic on the Wyzen-what? post, so we thought we’d follow it up with another post on determining fabric durability and cracking textile industry code.

You may have seen fabrics marked with a W, S, W-S or X as it relates to the fabric’s cleaning or maintenance. The code stands for the type of cleaning agent that is recommended for that particular textile. Detailed cleaning instructions vary based on the textile’s cleaning code:

W: Water-based cleaning agents or foam may be used for cleaning
this fabric
S: Only mild, pure water-free dry cleaning solvents may be used for
cleaning this fabric.
W-S: Water-based cleaning agents and foam or mild, water-free
solvents may be used for cleaning this fabric.
X: This fabric should be vacuumed lightly to remove soil. Warning:
Do not use water-based foam or liquid cleaning agents of any kind on
this fabric.

As it relates to durability, upholstery fabrics with a “W” cleaning code tend to be the best. Whether treating a textile that has been marked W, S, or W-S, be sure to use a lint free cloth for spot cleaning. When using a regular towel, the fibers from the towel can become entangles in the fibers of the upholstery leaving a spot that appears discolored.

For more on upholstery care and cleaning instructions, click here.