How to Clean and Maintain a Fabric Headboard

How to Clean & Maintain a Fabric Headboard

Say goodbye to dust, stains, & sneezing.

Modern bedroom with a beige upholstered headboard and bright natural light

Why Fabric Headboards Need Regular Care

Fabric headboards collect dust, sweat, oils, and airborne particles. Neglecting them can lead to allergies, odors, and discoloration.

Personal Tip: If you’re changing sheets weekly, your headboard deserves attention too.

Dust particles accumulating on a fabric headboard in close-up

Weekly Quick Clean Routine

  • Vacuum with upholstery attachment
  • Wipe frame with a damp cloth
  • Spray fabric-safe deodoriser
  • Brush nap with a lint-free cloth
Upholstered headboard being vacuumed with a soft brush attachment

Spot-Cleaning Common Stains

  • Sweat/oil: Dab with 1:1 warm water and vinegar
  • Juice/coffee: Use soda water + mild detergent
  • Pet accidents: Absorb, blot with vinegar, apply baking soda
Step-by-step fabric headboard stain removal demo with cloth and cleaner

Deep Clean Every 3–6 Months

Use steam from a distance, apply upholstery foam cleaner, and allow full air dry. Especially important after NZ's wet winters.

Steam cleaning a fabric headboard near an open window with light pouring in

When to Replace or Reupholster

  • Fading that won’t clean out
  • Slack fabric or loss of bounce
  • Frame distortion or discomfort

If your headboard is part of a TreasureBox set, we may offer replacement units. Contact us to check availability.


Love your bed? Then love your headboard too.

Keep it clean, calm and allergy-free—with care, not chemicals.

Shop Upholstered Bed Frames Shop Headboards

FAQs

Can I use baking soda to clean a fabric headboard?

Yes, for deodorising—sprinkle, let sit, then vacuum.

Will steam cleaning damage the fabric?

No, as long as you keep distance and don’t oversaturate.

What if my bed frame is attached? Can I still clean it?

Definitely—use a small upholstery brush and avoid soaking the seams.

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