The short answer
What Water Does to Fabric and Foam
Water penetrates the outer fabric and soaks into the foam or batting underneath. As the padding absorbs moisture, it becomes heavy and loses its shape. The fabric can shrink, stretch, or develop water rings and discoloration.
Moisture also travels through the upholstery into the wooden frame. Wood absorbs water and can swell, warp, or crack as it dries. Over time, the frame may weaken, causing the furniture to feel unstable or sag.
- Fabric staining from dirt and minerals in the water
- Swelling and warping of the wooden frame
- Loss of cushion support and shape
- Mold and mildew growth in the padding
- Unpleasant odors from trapped moisture
How Mold and Mildew Develop
When upholstered furniture stays wet, mold and mildew can grow within 24 to 48 hours. The dark, damp interior of the padding is a perfect place for spores to spread. You might notice a musty smell before you see any visible mold.
Mold can cause health issues like allergies or breathing problems. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. The pros can remove the furniture safely and clean it, but you should avoid touching moldy areas without protection.
Steps to Take Right Away
The sooner you act, the better. Remove any wet cushions and set them upright to dry. Use fans or a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air and the fabric. Blot the surface with clean towels to soak up excess water, but avoid rubbing, which pushes water deeper.
If the furniture is soaked, consider moving it to a dry, ventilated area if possible. Do not use heat, as it can set stains or damage fabric. Homes in storm-prone regions may face this situation more than once.
When to Call the Pros
If the padding is saturated or the frame is warped, professional help is often needed. The pros use industrial dryers, extraction tools, and antimicrobial treatments to dry and sanitize the piece. They can also assess whether the furniture is worth saving.
The decision depends on the extent of the damage and the value of the piece. A water damage inspection can help you understand the condition. The pros usually evaluate the fabric, padding, and frame before recommending a course of action.
What the Pros Usually Do
The pros typically remove the cushions and dry the frame and padding separately. They may use hot water extraction to clean the fabric and remove odors. After drying, they apply a mold inhibitor to prevent future growth.
In some cases, they can replace damaged foam or reupholster the piece. For minor stains, stain removal from water damage might be enough. The cost depends on the size of the furniture, the type of fabric, and the severity of the damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can I dry upholstered furniture with a hairdryer?
Using a hairdryer is not recommended. Heat can shrink fabric, set stains, or damage the padding. Instead, use fans, a dehumidifier, or air conditioning to dry the piece slowly. Blot with towels first to remove as much water as possible.
How long does it take for mold to start growing?
Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after the furniture gets wet. The exact time depends on temperature and humidity. Acting quickly to dry the furniture reduces the risk. If you see or smell mold, call the pros to handle it safely.
Is it worth repairing water-damaged upholstery?
It depends on the damage and the furniture's value. If the frame is warped or the padding is saturated, repair may cost more than replacement. The pros can inspect and give you an idea of what is possible. Often, minor damage is worth cleaning and drying.