Many furniture fabrics now carry the furniture industry's cleaning code adopted in 1969. It gives the consumer information about the proper furniture cleaning methods for special fabrics. There are four letters in the code, immediately followed by furniture cleaning instructions. The code letters are W, S, W-S, AND X. Permanent furniture cleaning labels will normally be found under the seat cushion. When cleaning furniture, Flag always pretests the fabric for discoloration and shrinkage on an inconspicuous part of the furniture.

Code ("W"): Flag uses the foam only from a water-based cleaning agent such as a mild detergent or non-solvent upholstery shampoo product. We apply the foam with a soft brush in a circular motion and vacuum. When you have an overall soiled condition on your upholstery, remember it is always better to use a professional cleaning service. Flag should be your choice!
Code ("S"): Flag will pretest a small area before proceeding, then will use a mild water-free solvent or dry cleaning product only because this fabric code lets us know the material must not be wet or the fabric can and probably will turn brown.
Code ("W-S"): Flag will pretest a small area before proceeding, then using a mild solvent, an upholstery shampoo, or the foam from a mild detergent proceed to clean upholstery in a well ventilated room, then vacuum to help dry using our powerful vacuum from our truck mount unit.
Code ("X"): Clean this fabric only by vacuuming or light brushing to prevent accumulation of dust or grime. Water-based foam furniture cleaners or solvent based furniture cleaning agents of ANY KIND may cause shrinking, staining or distortion of the surface pile and, therefore, should not be used.

Fabric Selection & Care: The useful life of upholstered furniture can be increased if the consumer follows a few simple fabric protection rules. It is very important that a fabric be chosen that is appropriate for its intended use. For example, if velvet covers are available in cotton, nylon and olefin, the nylon velvet might be appropriate for a large family for use in high traffic areas. The olefin velvet could also take heavy use and would be an excellent choice for humid climates where mildew is a problem. The cotton velvet has less abrasion and soiling resistance and so might be appropriate for moderate activity areas. Weekly vacuuming or light brushing is a fabric care tip that helps to remove soil and protect fabric from the embedding of dirt or grime between fibers which can increase abrasion and wear. The life of upholstered cushions can be increased through periodic turning. The weekly reversal of loose cushions will allow even distribution of wear over a long period of time. Professional furniture cleaning is recommended periodically to keep the furniture looking as new as possible.