7 best solvent based cleaner for upholstery options, tested 2025

I’ve been there – a clumsy spill on my favorite armchair, a mystery stain on the car seats, or just the general grime that builds up over time on beloved upholstery. It’s frustrating, and often, water-based cleaners just push the stain around. That’s when I realized the true power of a good solvent based cleaner for upholstery. These cleaners are fantastic for tackling those oily, greasy, and tough stains that water alone can’t touch, effectively dissolving the mess without over-wetting your fabrics. After putting several options to the test, I’m excited to share my top picks and insights to help you revive your upholstered items.

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
	Blue Coral 2-Pack Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus with…	View on Amazon
	Janie Dry Stick Spot Cleaner (1.8 oz) – Instant Stain…	View on Amazon
	Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner White…	View on Amazon
	Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover, 32 floz (Pack of 4),…	View on Amazon
	P & S PROFESSIONAL DETAIL PRODUCTS Carpet Bomber –…	View on Amazon

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

This Blue Coral cleaner is a staple for a reason. It’s designed to deliver a “dry clean” like experience right in your home or car, lifting away an impressive range of stubborn stains. I found it particularly effective on those dreaded coffee rings and the grease marks that mysteriously appear on fabric. The integrated brush cap is a simple but brilliant feature, really helping to agitate and work the product into ground-in soils. It makes quick work of stains, leaving your upholstery looking refreshed.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Stain Variety: Highly effective on grease, tar, coffee, lipstick, ink, and even blood stains.
– Integrated Brush: Comes with an easy-to-use brush cap for effective stain removal.
– Versatile Application: Great for carpets, upholstery, and floor mats in vehicles and homes.

Pros:
– Tackles a wide array of tough stains.
– The built-in brush significantly aids cleaning.
– Leaves a fresh scent and clean finish.

Cons:
– Not suitable for delicate fabrics like suede, leather, silk, or velvet.

Best for: General tough stains on durable upholstery and carpets in cars and homes.

Expert Opinion: This cleaner provides excellent value and performance for everyday tough stains, especially where agitation is needed. Just be mindful of the fabric type.

2. Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner – Multi Surface Solution -…

The Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner truly impressed me with its no-rinse, no-residue formula. It delivers a rich, foamy action that gets deep into the fabric without saturating it, which is a huge plus for preventing water marks. I used it on some older velour cushions and was amazed at how it lifted grime and odors, leaving the fabric feeling soft and looking vibrant again. The multi-surface compatibility means you can confidently use it across various fabric types.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– No Rinsing Needed: Safely lifts stains, grime, and odor in one quick step without rinsing.
– Residue-Free: Foamy formula cleans effectively, leaving no sticky residue behind.
– Multi-Surface Use: Works on all carpets, nylon, rayon, cotton, velour, and other upholstery materials.

Pros:
– Exceptionally easy to use with no rinsing required.
– Leaves no sticky film, preserving fabric feel.
– Effective on both spots and larger soiled areas.

Cons:
– May require extra agitation with a separate brush for very stubborn, old stains.

Best for: Home and auto upholstery needing a quick, residue-free clean on various fabric types.

Expert Opinion: For those prioritizing ease of use and a pristine finish without residue, this Fuller Brush cleaner is a fantastic choice, especially for maintenance cleaning.

3. Blue Coral 2-Pack Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus with…

If you’re a fan of the effectiveness of the Blue Coral DC22 and find yourself reaching for it often, this 2-pack offers fantastic value. It’s the same reliable, powerful formula that tackles grease, tar, coffee, and more with its handy brush cap, but in a convenient bundle. For bigger cleaning projects or for keeping one at home and one in the car, having a backup ensures you’re always ready to tackle unexpected spills.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Value Pack: Two cans of the effective Blue Coral Dri-Clean Plus.
– Same Great Formula: Lifts tough stains like grease, tar, coffee, lipstick, and ink.
– Built-in Brush: Features the easy-to-use brush cap for ground-in stains.

Pros:
– Economical choice for frequent users.
– Reliable performance on a wide range of stains.
– Convenient for multi-location use (home/car).

Cons:
– Still not suitable for very delicate fabrics like suede or silk.

Best for: Users who frequently clean upholstery and want a cost-effective, reliable solution.

Expert Opinion: When you know a product works well for your needs, stocking up with a multi-pack like this makes perfect sense, ensuring you always have a powerful solvent based cleaner for upholstery at hand.

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

The Janie Dry Stick is a true game-changer for on-the-go or waterless stain removal. I was initially skeptical about a “dry” stick cleaner, but this little wonder proved me wrong. It uses natural ingredients and clays to absorb and lift stains without a single drop of water. It’s incredibly convenient for those moments when you spill something just before heading out or need a quick touch-up on a sofa without worrying about drying time. Just rub, let it absorb, and brush away the powder.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Waterless Stain Removal: Tackles stains instantly without the need for water or washing.
– All-Natural Formula: Made with natural ingredients and clays, free from harsh chemicals.
– Portable & Convenient: Compact powdered stick ideal for quick fixes at home or while traveling.

Pros:
– Perfect for quick, emergency stain removal.
– Safe for most fabrics and colors (not cashmere).
– Non-toxic, odorless, and leaves no rings.

Cons:
– Less effective on very large or deeply set, old stains compared to liquid solvents.

Best for: Instant, waterless spot cleaning, especially oil, grease, and food stains on upholstery, ideal for travel or quick home fixes.

Expert Opinion: This is an absolute must-have for preventative cleaning and emergency spills. Its waterless nature makes it unique and incredibly practical for a solvent based cleaner for upholstery without the liquid mess.

5. Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner White…

Mohawk Finishing Products brought out a powerful cleaner that truly refreshes upholstery. This cleaner impressed me with its ability to tackle some of the most notorious stains – red drinks, ink, and even cosmetics – without resorting to bleach. The spray application is straightforward, and after a few minutes, blotting away the residue revealed a noticeably cleaner surface. It’s comforting to know it’s specifically designed for furniture and vehicle interiors, making it a reliable choice for various fabrics.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Wide Stain Removal: Helps remove grease, ink, crayon, red drinks, lipstick, cosmetics, and more.
– Bleach-Free Formula: Safe for washable textiles without the risk of discoloration.
– Multi-Purpose: Suitable for carpets, furniture, and car interiors.

Pros:
– Excellent on a diverse range of challenging stains.
– Safe to use without bleach, protecting fabric colors.
– Easy spray and blot application.

Cons:
– May require multiple applications for very deeply set or large stains.

Best for: Comprehensive stain removal on washable upholstery, especially those common household and automotive messes that can cause discoloration.

Expert Opinion: When facing a variety of tough, colorful stains where you need a strong yet safe solvent based cleaner for upholstery, Mohawk’s offering is a solid, bleach-free solution.

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

The Imperial Cleaner stands out for its versatility and heritage. Having been around for over 80 years, it’s a testament to its effectiveness. This multi-use solution truly acts like a dry cleaning fluid, safely lifting oils, grease, lipstick, and tar from a vast array of surfaces, including fine fabrics. I appreciated that it explicitly states it won’t fade or shrink fabrics, which is a common concern with stronger cleaners. The bulk pack is also great for those who want a reliable, long-lasting supply for multiple cleaning needs.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Multi-Use Solution: Acts as a dry cleaning spray, spot remover, and tar remover.
– Safe on Fine Fabrics: Will not fade, shrink, or remove pleats from delicate materials.
– Powerful Cleaning Solvent: Removes oils, grease, lipstick, tar, grime effectively.

Pros:
– Extremely versatile for various cleaning tasks and surfaces.
– Offers peace of mind for use on finer fabrics.
– Long-standing reputation for effectiveness.

Cons:
– The strong solvent smell might be noticeable, requiring good ventilation.

Best for: Users needing a powerful, multi-purpose dry cleaning solvent that is safe on a wide range of fabrics, including finer ones.

Expert Opinion: Imperial Cleaner is a classic for a reason. Its dry cleaning solvent capabilities and fabric safety make it an excellent choice for tackling tough stains on upholstery and beyond, proving that time-tested formulas still deliver.

7. P & S PROFESSIONAL DETAIL PRODUCTS Carpet Bomber –…

Coming from the professional detailing world, the P&S Carpet Bomber lives up to its name. This citrus-based cleaner doesn’t just clean; it eliminates odors at the source while blasting through tough stains. I tried it on some particularly grungy car mats and was genuinely impressed by how it restored their original look and left a fresh, pleasant scent. Its high dilutability is a huge bonus, allowing you to customize its strength for everything from light cleaning to serious grime, making it incredibly cost-effective.

Key features that stand out(Bold):
– Odor-Eliminating Citrus Formula: Tackles embedded dirt and grease while eliminating odors at the source.
– Highly Dilutable: Can be used straight for maximum power or diluted up to 8:1 for lighter tasks.
– Professional Grade: Part of the Renny Doyle Double Black Collection, trusted by detailers.

Pros:
– Deep cleans and restores upholstery to a like-new condition.
– Effectively neutralizes odors, not just masks them.
– Cost-effective due to its high dilutability.

Cons:
– Strong cleaning power might require a patch test on very sensitive fabrics.

Best for: Deep cleaning and odor elimination on heavily soiled carpets, upholstery, and even engine bays in vehicles and homes.

Expert Opinion: If you’re looking for a professional-grade solvent based cleaner for upholstery that provides serious cleaning power and odor elimination, P&S Carpet Bomber is an outstanding choice that offers fantastic versatility.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the best solvent based cleaner for upholstery, your specific needs really dictate the ideal product. For quick, on-the-go fixes and waterless stain removal, the Janie Dry Stick is truly in a league of its own. If you’re dealing with tough, set-in greasy or oily stains on durable fabrics and appreciate an integrated brush, the Blue Coral DC22 (and its 2-pack variant) is a robust performer. For those who prioritize residue-free cleaning and no rinsing, the Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner is an excellent choice for general upkeep.

When the stain variety is wide, from ink to red drinks, the Mohawk Finishing Products cleaner offers a bleach-free, comprehensive solution. For an old-school, multi-purpose dry cleaning fluid that’s safe on fine fabrics, Imperial Cleaner is a time-tested hero. Lastly, if professional-grade deep cleaning and odor elimination for heavily soiled items are your main concern, especially in automotive detailing, the P&S Carpet Bomber will not disappoint with its dilutable citrus formula. Consider your fabric type, stain type, and desired ease of use to narrow down your top pick.

Final Verdict

Finding the best solvent based cleaner for upholstery truly depends on the specific challenge you’re facing.
* For Everyday Spills & General Maintenance: The Fuller Brush Upholstery Cleaner is a fantastic, no-fuss option that leaves no residue.
* For Stubborn, Greasy Stains & Integrated Brush Convenience: Look no further than Blue Coral DC22. The 2-pack offers great value if you use it often.
* For Emergency, Waterless Spot Removal: The Janie Dry Stick is an ingenious solution for instant fixes, especially for oil and food stains.
* For Diverse Tough Stains Without Bleach: Mohawk Finishing Products Upholstery/Fabric Cleaner is a reliable choice for a wide range of messes.
* For Multi-Purpose “Dry Cleaning” & Fine Fabric Safety: Imperial Cleaner and Spot Remover offers proven effectiveness and versatility.
* For Professional-Grade Deep Cleaning & Odor Elimination: P&S Carpet Bomber is a powerhouse, especially for heavily soiled areas and vehicle interiors.

Ultimately, having one or two of these specialized cleaners in your arsenal means you’re well-equipped to tackle almost any upholstery stain, ensuring your furniture and car interiors stay looking their best.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly is a solvent based cleaner for upholstery?
A1: A solvent based cleaner for upholstery uses chemical solvents (like petroleum distillates or other organic compounds) instead of primarily water to dissolve and lift stains. They are particularly effective on oil-based stains, grease, tar, and other tough marks that water-based cleaners might struggle with or simply spread. They often dry quicker and can prevent water rings.

Q2: Are solvent based cleaners safe for all types of upholstery fabrics?
A2: No, not all. While many solvent based cleaner for upholstery products are safe for a wide range of synthetic and natural fabrics like cotton, nylon, or velour, they can be too harsh for delicate materials. Always avoid using them on fabrics like suede, leather, silk, velvet, or acetate unless the product specifically states it’s safe. Always perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area first.

Q3: How do I properly use a solvent based cleaner on my upholstery?
A3: First, remove any excess solid debris from the stain. Then, always patch test the cleaner on a hidden area of the upholstery to check for colorfastness or damage. If safe, apply the cleaner directly to the stain (often by spraying or blotting), let it dwell for the recommended time (usually a few minutes), and then blot the area dry with a clean, white cloth. Avoid rubbing vigorously, as this can damage fabric fibers. Repeat if necessary.

Q4: Can solvent based cleaners remove odors as well as stains?
A4: Many solvent based cleaner for upholstery products are formulated with odor eliminators, especially those designed for pet messes or automotive interiors like the P&S Carpet Bomber. The solvents themselves can also help break down odor-causing residues. However, for very deep-set or severe odors, you might need a dedicated odor neutralizer after cleaning.

Q5: Why would I choose a solvent based cleaner over a water-based one?
A5: You’d choose a solvent based cleaner for upholstery when dealing with oily, greasy, or tough-to-dissolve stains that water-based cleaners struggle with. They are also preferred for fabrics that shouldn’t get too wet (to prevent water marks, shrinkage, or mildew) and for quick drying. Water-based cleaners are generally better for general dirt and grime and are often milder.

Q6: What precautions should I take when using solvent based cleaners?
A6: Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Wear gloves to protect your skin. Keep the products away from open flames or heat sources as many solvents are flammable. Store them safely out of reach of children and pets. And as always, read the product’s specific instructions and warnings carefully before use.

Q7: Can I use these cleaners on car upholstery as well as home furniture?
A7: Absolutely! Many of the best solvent based cleaner for upholstery options reviewed here are formulated to be effective on both home furniture and automotive interiors. Products like Blue Coral DC22, Fuller Brush, Mohawk, and P&S Carpet Bomber specifically mention their suitability for car carpets, seats, and floor mats. Just remember to check the specific fabric type of your car’s interior.