How to Stop Upholstery Dye from Transferring to Clothes

It’s not uncommon for some upholstery colors, red in particular, to transfer to clothing. This does not lessen the aggravation of ruined clothes and other items that come in constant contact with your new upholstery. Though the manufacturer or store who made/sold the furniture, may be responsible for fixing the problem, there is something you can do. The following method may be time consuming, but if you see it through, you will be quite happy with the results.

• Several white washcloths
• Scotchgard Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner
• Water

1. Start by moistening the washcloths so they are damp, but not dripping. Use clean, white rags or washcloths you don’t mind staining. Avoid colored cloths as they can add to the color transfer.
2. Wipe the entire surface of the sofa down with the washcloths, turning the cloth frequently as the color transfers.
3. Clean all areas and be sure to get both sides of any removable cushions. Rinse and remoisten the cloths as necessary. As you are wiping the surface, you will remove the excess dye that is transferring to your clothes, etc.
4. After wiping down the entire piece, allow the fabric to dry completely.
5. Repeat steps 1-3 until little or no color transfers onto the white cloths.
6. Scotchgard provides another layer of protection for the fabric and for preventing future dye transfer. Follow the directions on the product packaging for application.

• If color transfer happens with a new sofa, contact the store or manufacturer. They should be responsible for fixing and/or preventing the problem.
• If you are trying to remove the dye that has been transferred to another fabric piece, see our guide How to Fix Dye Transfer.