Specifications · Specifications
Cleaning Codes for Upholstery Fabric: W, S, WS, X Explained
Cleaning codes tell maintenance what may touch the face cloth. This guide defines W, S, WS, and X in trade terms, pairs each with ACT guidance, and gives a decision tree for when to re-spec.
What cleaning codes are
Cleaning codes are a four-letter shorthand that appears on upholstery fabric hang tags and spec sheets. They tell any cleaner, workroom, or owner what category of agent is approved on the face cloth.
The codes come from the Joint Industry Committee for Upholstery Fabric Standards and are used across the furniture and contract trades. They are voluntary at the regulatory level, but they are effectively mandatory for contract bids and major retailers.
A code is set by the mill after testing. It reflects the fiber, the construction, and any applied finish. A fabric that would tolerate water in isolation might be coded S because the backing or the finish cannot.
The four codes
| Code | Meaning | Approved agents | Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| W | Water-based cleaning approved | Distilled water, water-based foam, mild detergent, diluted OxiClean on approved fabrics | Solvents, dry-clean fluids, over-saturation |
| S | Solvent-based cleaning only | Mineral spirits, perchloroethylene, petroleum-based dry-clean fluid | Water, water-based foam, steam |
| WS | Water or solvent approved | Either, matched to the stain: water-soluble (coffee, wine) with water-based; oil-based (lipstick, makeup) with solvent | Saturation that soaks the backing |
| X | Vacuum or light brushing only | HEPA vacuum, soft horsehair brush, professional dry extraction only if the mill approves | Any liquid, any solvent, any detergent, any steam |
How the codes align with ACT
The Association for Contract Textiles does not publish its own cleaning codes. ACT references the Joint Industry Committee W / S / WS / X system and expects a code on the spec sheet.
For an ACT contract fabric, the cleaning code is printed alongside the six performance icons. A contract-grade hospitality fabric in MJD's Capsule Collection will typically carry a W or WS to match hotel janitorial protocols.
Related readingFull guide to fabric care symbolsEvery symbol on the spec sheet decoded.Common cleaning code mistakes
- Using water on an S-code fabric, which can cause brown rings and watermarks as moisture wicks soluble impurities to the surface.
- Using solvent on a W-code backed with latex or acrylic. The solvent dissolves the backing and the fabric delaminates.
- Steaming an X-code fabric. Steam is moisture, and X means no moisture.
- Bleach on a piece-dyed W. W allows water-based cleaning but not bleach unless the fabric is specifically bleach-cleanable (typically solution-dyed).
- Over-saturating any code. Even on W and WS, saturation can reach the foam or frame and create odor or mildew.
Decision tree for specifiers
| Application | Recommended code | Rationale | Re-spec if |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential formal | S or WS | Decorative fabrics (silks, linens) often require solvent only | Client has children or pets; upgrade to WS or W |
| Residential family room | W or WS | Water-based cleaning matches home care habits | Code is S or X; the fabric will not survive |
| Hospitality guest room | W or WS | Janitorial protocols use water-based extraction | Code is S; maintenance will not comply |
| Hospitality F&B | W (bleach-cleanable) | Food stains demand aggressive cleaning | Code is S or WS without bleach; re-spec |
| Healthcare patient room | W (bleach-cleanable) | Infection control requires bleach or disinfectant | Any other code |
| Corporate lobby | W or WS | Mixed traffic; water-based protocols typical | S or X, unless decorative and low-touch |
Bleach cleanability and healthcare
A W cleaning code does not automatically mean bleach-cleanable. Bleach is a separate qualification. Fabrics suitable for healthcare are typically solution-dyed polyester or olefin with a documented bleach dilution ratio (often 1:9 sodium hypochlorite).
When specifying for healthcare or behavioral health, ask for the bleach cleanability data sheet separately from the cleaning code.
What to do when code and application mismatch
A specifier who sees an S code on a fabric that will live in a family room has three options: re-spec to a W or WS, apply an additional topical protection (with the mill's approval), or add a maintenance protocol document that the client signs.
In contract work, the first option is usually the only sound one. A janitorial crew will not follow a bespoke protocol, and liability for a ruined fabric sits with whoever specified it.
Related readingContract upholstery solutionsFabrics with codes matched to contract maintenance.A workroom's perspective
For a workroom, the code also affects finishing. A W-code fabric can be steamed during installation. An S or X cannot. That changes whether the workroom can smooth a wrinkle on-site or whether the piece has to go back to the shop.
Communicating the code to the workroom up front prevents a $200 call-back. It is part of the spec package, not an afterthought.
Frequently asked questions
Who assigns the cleaning code on a fabric?
The fabric mill assigns the code based on testing of the face cloth, backing, and any applied finish. It reflects what the manufacturer can warrant, not a theoretical maximum.
Is WS better than W?
Not inherently. WS means either water-based or solvent-based cleaning is approved. W alone is adequate for most residential and hospitality applications. The code that matches your maintenance protocol is the right one.
Can I apply Scotchgard to change a cleaning code?
An aftermarket topical can improve stain resistance but does not change the manufacturer's cleaning code. If the code is S, water cleaning is still off-limits because the backing or the fiber cannot take it.
What does X really mean in practice?
X fabrics can be vacuumed and lightly brushed. A professional can sometimes use dry extraction if the mill approves it in writing. Any liquid or solvent will damage the fabric.
Are codes different in Europe?
European mills often use pictograms aligned with ISO 3758 rather than W / S / WS / X. For North American contract work, expect the Joint Industry codes; for imported European goods, confirm the equivalent.
Put this into practice
Request samples or open a Print Studio conversation.
Michael Jon Designs is trade-only. Our sales team confirms spec, availability, and pricing on every project.
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