7 Best Solvent Cleaner for Upholstery Expert-Tested 2025

I’ve been there – that heart-sinking moment when you spill coffee on your favorite armchair or discover a mystery stain on the car seats. It feels like a permanent blemish, but often, a best solvent cleaner for upholstery is the secret weapon you need. Unlike water-based solutions, solvent cleaners are designed to tackle oil, grease, ink, and other tricky stains without oversaturating your fabric, helping preserve your upholstery’s integrity. After extensive testing and review, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the right product for your specific upholstery cleaning needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Blue Coral DC22 Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus with Odor…	View on Amazon
	Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner – Multi Surface Solution -…	View on Amazon
	Upholstery Dry Cleaning Foam – No-Rinse Fabric Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover, 32 floz (Pack of 4),…	View on Amazon
	Resolve 22 fl oz Liquid Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner White…	View on Amazon
	Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner (1.8 oz) – Instant Stain…	View on Amazon

Here are our top picks for the best solvent cleaners for upholstery:

Blue Coral DC22 Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus with Odor…

This cleaner is a powerhouse when it comes to tackling a wide array of stubborn stains that other cleaners often leave behind. Its advanced formula penetrates deeply to lift contaminants like grease, tar, coffee, and even blood, while the integrated brush cap provides effective agitation to dislodge ground-in dirt. It’s particularly effective for high-traffic areas in both home and vehicle interiors, making quick work of unsightly marks on carpets, upholstery, and floor mats.

Key features that stand out:
– Versatile Stain Removal: Effectively tackles grease, tar, coffee, lipstick, ink, and blood stains.
– Integrated Brush Cap: Easy-to-use brush helps agitate and remove ground-in stains and soils.
– Multi-Surface Use: Ideal for car interior carpets, upholstery, and floor mats.
– Fabric Specificity: Do not use on suede, leather, silk, velvet or clear plastic to avoid damage.

Pros:
– Excellent at removing a wide variety of tough, set-in stains.
– The built-in brush is incredibly convenient for spot treatment.
– Revitalizes fabric appearance and eliminates odors effectively.
Cons:
– Requires careful attention to fabric compatibility, not suitable for all materials.

Best for: Tough, greasy, and ground-in stains on durable fabrics like car upholstery and home carpets, where a scrubbing action is beneficial.

Expert Opinion: This is a classic for a reason. Its ability to cut through greasy stains is impressive, and the integrated brush makes it a true all-in-one solution for many common upholstery challenges. Always test it in an inconspicuous area first, especially on older fabrics.

Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner – Multi Surface Solution -…

The Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner offers a convenient, no-rinse solution that rejuvenates fabric and vinyl surfaces. Its rich, foamy formula is designed to lift stains, grime, and odors without over-wetting the material or leaving any sticky residue. This makes it perfect for both small spots and larger soiled areas across various materials like nylon, rayon, cotton, and velour in homes and automobiles.

Key features that stand out:
– No-Rinse Formula: Safely lifts stains, grime, and odors without the need for rinsing.
– Multi-Surface Compatibility: Works on carpets, nylon, rayon, cotton, velour, and vinyl upholstery.
– Residue-Free Cleaning: Delivers effective cleaning action without leaving any sticky residue behind.
– Easy Application: Simply spray, let stand for 30 seconds, and blot dry.

Pros:
– Extremely easy to use with no rinsing required.
– Leaves no sticky residue, keeping fabrics feeling clean and soft.
– Effective on both fabric and vinyl, offering great versatility.
Cons:
– May require extra agitation for very deep or old stains.

Best for: Everyday spills, general grime, and odor removal on a variety of household and automotive upholstery fabrics that benefit from a no-rinse foam.

Expert Opinion: I appreciate how simple and effective this cleaner is for regular maintenance. The no-rinse feature is a huge time-saver, and the fact that it doesn’t leave residue is a big plus for maintaining fabric feel.

Upholstery Dry Cleaning Foam – No-Rinse Fabric Cleaner for…

This upholstery dry cleaning foam provides a powerful, residue-free solution for tackling stubborn stains on a variety of fabrics. Its foaming action deeply penetrates and breaks down even tough everyday stains like soda, wine, blood, and coffee, effectively restoring carpets and furniture to a pristine state. The convenient design eliminates the need for steam or water washing, making it a gentle yet highly effective option for maintaining and extending the lifespan of your upholstered items.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Stain Removal: Effectively removes stubborn stains like soda, wine, blood, kitchen grease, and coffee.
– No-Residue Formula: Cleans without leaving any sticky residue behind, restoring fabrics to a pristine state.
– No Steam or Water Washing Needed: Convenient design for effective dry cleaning, gentle on fabrics.
– Gentle and Safe: Contains no irritants, suitable for clothing, sofas, and furniture.

Pros:
– Excellent for a wide range of common household stains.
– Eliminates the need for wet cleaning, reducing drying time and fabric risk.
– Gentle formula is safe for many fabric types and for use around family/pets.
Cons:
– Extremely stubborn, old stains might require multiple applications or a secondary tool.

Best for: Everyday spills and maintaining the cleanliness of sofas, chairs, and other fabric furniture without using water, ideal for quick clean-ups and preventing stain buildup.

Expert Opinion: This foam cleaner truly lives up to its “dry cleaning” claim. It’s fantastic for those panic moments when a drink spills on the couch, and the lack of residue is a major benefit for keeping upholstery looking new.

Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover, 32 floz (Pack of 4),…

Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover is a highly versatile, multi-use dry cleaning solvent celebrated for its powerful stain-removing capabilities. Formulated to tackle oils, grease, lipstick, tar, grime, and various stains, it’s safe for use on a wide array of surfaces including upholstery, fine fabrics, clothes, wood floors, and ceramics. This American-made product is also an excellent tar remover for automobiles, ensuring your car looks pristine from top to bumper without fading or shrinking delicate materials.

Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Use Solvent: Functions as a dry cleaning spray, spot remover, fabric stain remover, and tar remover.
– Powerful Cleaning Action: Effectively removes oils, grease, lipstick, tar, and grime.
– Safe for Fine Fabrics: Will not fade, shrink, or remove pleats, making it ideal for delicate materials.
– Versatile Application: Use on upholstery, fine fabrics, clothes, wood floors, ceramic, and automotive exteriors.

Pros:
– Exceptionally versatile for both household and automotive use.
– Powerful solvent action on tough, oily, and greasy stains.
– Safe on fine fabrics, which is a rare and valuable feature in solvent cleaners.
Cons:
– The strong solvent nature requires good ventilation during use.

Best for: Households needing a heavy-duty, multi-surface cleaner capable of handling the toughest oil-based stains on a variety of materials, including fine fabrics.

Expert Opinion: When it comes to pure solvent power, Imperial is a standout. Its ability to safely clean fine fabrics and act as an automotive tar remover makes it incredibly economical and effective for multiple cleaning tasks.

Resolve 22 fl oz Liquid Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery…

Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner and Upholstery Stain Remover is a household staple, specially formulated to safely lift away dirt, tough stains, and odors from most common household fabrics. It’s highly effective on typical culprits like makeup, food grease, coffee, and wine stains, ensuring your upholstery looks clean and refreshed. While powerful, it’s important to test for colorfastness and avoid use on delicate materials like velvet, silk, vinyl, or leather.

Key features that stand out:
– Specially Formulated: Safely lifts away dirt and odors from common household fabrics.
– Effective Stain Removal: Great for upholstery stains, makeup, food grease, coffee, and wine.
– Fabric Compatibility: Safe to use on most household fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and cotton blends.
– Pre-Test Recommended: Always test a hidden section for colorfastness before full application.

Pros:
– A trusted and widely available brand known for effective stain removal.
– Works well on many everyday household stains and odors.
– Generally safe for common synthetic and blended fabrics.
Cons:
– Limited use on specific delicate fabrics, requiring careful fabric identification.

Best for: General household upholstery cleaning, targeting common everyday spills like food, drinks, and makeup on synthetic and cotton-blend fabrics.

Expert Opinion: Resolve is a go-to for many because it’s reliable and readily available. It’s particularly good for those “oops” moments on the living room sofa, offering a solid performance on typical household messes.

Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner White…

The Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner is a robust solution designed to tackle some of the most stubborn stains encountered on washable textiles. This bleach-free cleaner effectively removes difficult marks like grease, ink, crayon, red drinks, lipstick, and cosmetics from carpets, furniture, and car interiors. Its simple application process involves pre-testing, applying, letting it sit, and then blotting, making it an accessible and effective choice for restoring your fabrics.

Key features that stand out:
– Heavy-Duty Stain Removal: Effectively removes grease, ink, crayon, red drinks, lipstick, cosmetics, and sunblock.
– Bleach-Free Formula: Safe for use on a variety of washable textiles without the risk of bleaching.
– Multi-Area Use: Suitable for carpet, furniture, and car interiors.
– Simple Application: Easy to use process: remove spillage, pre-test, apply, let sit, and blot.

Pros:
– Impressively effective on a wide range of notoriously difficult stains.
– Bleach-free formula adds a layer of safety for colored fabrics.
– Versatile for use in both home and automotive settings.
Cons:
– May require repeat applications for deeply ingrained or very old stains.

Best for: Individuals dealing with a variety of challenging, stubborn stains like ink, crayon, and red drinks on washable carpets and upholstery.

Expert Opinion: Mohawk really impresses with its ability to tackle some of the more infamous stains that often seem permanent. The bleach-free aspect is a significant advantage, especially for colorful upholstery.

Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner (1.8 oz) – Instant Stain…

The Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner offers a unique, waterless, and all-natural approach to instant stain removal, making it perfect for quick fixes at home or on the go. This portable powdered stick uses natural ingredients and clays to absorb and lift stains like oil, grease, and food without the need for harsh chemicals or solvents. It’s safe for most upholstery materials and colors, won’t leave rings, and is non-toxic, odorless, and non-flammable, providing a safe solution for family and pets.

Key features that stand out:
– Waterless Stain Removal: Tackles stains instantly without water or washing, ideal for quick fixes.
– All-Natural Formula: Made with natural ingredients and clays, free from harsh chemicals or solvents.
– Safe for Most Fabrics: Effectively removes oil, grease, and food stains without leaving rings on most upholstery materials.
– Portable Powdered Stick: Compact, easy-to-use rub-on, absorb, and brush-away design.

Pros:
– Incredibly convenient for on-the-go or emergency stain treatment.
– All-natural, non-toxic, and odorless formula is safe for pets and children.
– Waterless application means no drying time or risk of fabric distortion.
Cons:
– Not recommended for delicate fabrics like cashmere, so check labels.

Best for: Travelers, busy parents, or anyone needing an instant, waterless, and natural solution for fresh oil, grease, and food stains on most upholstery.

Expert Opinion: Janie Dry Stick is a genius product for quick stain emergencies. I love that it’s natural and waterless, making it perfect for upholstery that you don’t want to get wet or for those times you need a discreet cleanup.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best solvent cleaner for upholstery, versatility and effectiveness are key. For the absolute toughest, greasiest stains, Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover stands out with its multi-surface, powerful solvent action. If you need a more family-friendly, quick-fix solution for everyday spills that’s also natural and waterless, the Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner is an excellent choice. For those who appreciate a foam that works without rinsing, both Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner and Upholstery Dry Cleaning Foam deliver, with the latter being particularly gentle and residue-free. For common household stains like coffee and makeup on standard fabrics, Resolve Multi-Fabric Cleaner is a reliable go-to. And for those infamous ink and red drink spills, Mohawk Finishing Products offers a bleach-free heavy-duty solution. Finally, for car interiors and ground-in dirt where some scrubbing is needed, Blue Coral DC22 with its integrated brush is a top performer.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Upholstery’s Best Friend

Choosing the best solvent cleaner for upholstery really comes down to your specific needs.

• For the “Oh-No-a-Grease-Stain” Moment: Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover is my top recommendation. Its industrial-strength solvent tackles oils, tar, and lipstick like a champ, making it invaluable for both home and auto.
• For Everyday Spills and Gentle Care: You can’t go wrong with the Upholstery Dry Cleaning Foam. It’s effective on common stains, leaves no residue, and is gentle enough for regular use, prolonging your furniture’s life.
• For On-the-Go Emergency Cleanups: The Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner is a must-have in your bag or car. Its natural, waterless application is a lifesaver for fresh food and oil stains, preventing them from setting.

No matter which product you choose, remember that a little patience and a pre-test in an inconspicuous area are always your best allies in upholstery cleaning.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly is a solvent cleaner for upholstery?
A solvent cleaner for upholstery uses chemical compounds (solvents) instead of water to dissolve and lift stains. This makes them particularly effective against oil-based stains like grease, ink, tar, and makeup that water can often spread or set. They also minimize the risk of water damage, shrinking, or color bleeding.

Q2: Are solvent cleaners safe for all types of upholstery fabric?
No, solvent cleaners are not safe for all fabrics. Delicate materials like suede, leather, silk, and velvet are often not recommended for solvent cleaners, as they can cause damage, discoloration, or alter the texture. Always check your upholstery’s manufacturer label for cleaning codes (e.g., “W” for water-based, “S” for solvent-based, “WS” for both, or “X” for vacuum only). Always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area first.

Q3: How do I properly test a solvent cleaner before using it on my upholstery?
To test a best solvent cleaner for upholstery, choose a small, hidden area of the fabric (like the back of a cushion or underneath the skirt of a sofa). Apply a small amount of the cleaner as directed on the product label. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean white cloth. Check for any discoloration, fabric damage, or residue on the cloth. If there’s no adverse reaction, you can proceed with cleaning the stained area.

Q4: Can I use a solvent cleaner on leather or vinyl upholstery?
Generally, it’s not recommended to use typical fabric solvent cleaners on leather or vinyl. These materials require specialized cleaners designed to maintain their specific finishes and prevent drying, cracking, or damage. For leather, use a dedicated leather cleaner and conditioner. For vinyl, a mild soap and water solution is usually sufficient, followed by a vinyl protector.

Q5: How often should I use a solvent cleaner on my upholstery?
Solvent cleaners are primarily for spot treatment of specific stains, not for routine overall cleaning. You should use them as needed when an oil-based or stubborn stain occurs. For general maintenance and dust removal, regular vacuuming and light brushing are usually sufficient. Deep cleaning by professionals (or with appropriate methods) is recommended periodically, depending on usage.

Q6: What’s the main difference between water-based and solvent cleaners for upholstery?
The main difference lies in their active cleaning agents and how they tackle stains. Water-based cleaners use water as their primary carrier to dissolve and lift dirt, typically working best on water-soluble stains like food spills, mud, or sugary drinks. Solvent cleaners, on the other hand, use chemical solvents to break down oil, grease, ink, and other non-water-soluble stains. Solvent cleaners also dry faster and pose less risk of water rings or mildew.

Q7: What if a stain persists even after using the best solvent cleaner for upholstery?
If a stain persists, avoid oversaturating the area with more product. Sometimes, a stain may be a combination of different types, or it may be too old and deeply set to be removed entirely by a single product. You can try a second, gentle application, or consider consulting a professional upholstery cleaner who has access to industrial-grade products and equipment.