How to Clean a Power Reclining Sectional Without Damaging It

TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Why You Should Clean a Power Recliner Sofa Regularly
- How to Clean a Power Reclining Sectional
- Start by Knowing What Yours Power Recliner Sectional is Made Of
- How to Clean a Fabric Power Reclining Sectional
- How to Clean a Leather Power Reclining Sectional
- How to Clean Faux Leather or Synthetic Sectionals
- Don't Forget the Mechanism & Electrical Parts
- Extra Tips to Keep It Looking New
- When It’s Time to Call a Pro
- Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
- Wrap Up
A power reclining sectional is an excellent piece of furniture that so many people love. The reason is its duality. Who wouldn't want to have a sectional sofa that also works as a recliner?
Eliminating the necessity of two pieces of furniture saves space and money and offers comfort and style. However, like any furniture, your power reclining sectional needs regular care to stay in good shape. The challenge is cleaning it without harming the fabric, leather, or motorized parts.
When you use the wrong cleaning products or techniques, it can leave stains, damage the material, or even ruin the reclining mechanism. Let's not do that anymore! Read this guide and protect your precious power reclining sofa.
Why You Should Clean a Power Recliner Sofa Regularly
You may go for days and even months without cleaning your reclining sectional. To save yourself from the hassle and regret afterward, it’s important to learn why regular maintenance is vital:
- Dust and dirt build-up can make your recliner sectional dull and can house allergens.
- Spills and stains can become permanent if you delay and leave them untreated.
- Pet hair, sweat, and body oils can damage fabric and leather before you even realize it.
- A dirty mechanism affects the performance of the power reclining feature, and it may not work as smoothly.
By frequently cleaning your power recliner sectional, you can prolong its life and keep it in good condition.
How to Clean a Power Reclining Sectional
1. Start by Knowing What Yours Power Recliner Sectional is Made Of

Before you grab a cloth and cleaner, take a minute to figure out what material your sectional is made from. It matters because the wrong product or technique can do more harm than good.
Most power reclining sectionals are made with one of these:
Material Type |
Cleaning Method |
Special Notes |
Fabric |
Vacuum, mild soap, water |
Avoid over-wetting; always patch test first |
Leather |
Soft cloth, leather cleaner |
Keep away from heat; condition often |
Faux Leather |
Mild soap, water |
Avoid harsh cleaners |
If you’re unsure, check the care label or user manual for specifics.
2. How to Clean a Fabric Power Reclining Sectional

What you’ll need:
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Mild liquid soap
- Warm water
- Soft microfiber cloths
- Lint roller (for pet hair)
- Spray bottle (optional)
Here’s what to do:
- Unplug your recliner sectional. Safety first!
- Vacuum the surface. Get into those seams, corners, and under the cushions.
- Remove pet hair. A lint roller or a slightly damp glove works like magic.
- Mix your cleaning solution. A few drops of mild soap in warm water is enough.
- Patch test. Always test a small hidden spot first.
- Blot stains gently. Lightly dampen a microfiber cloth with your soapy water and dab. No rubbing.
- Wipe off soap. Use a clean, damp cloth to clear away any residue.
- Let it air dry completely before plugging it back in.
3. How to Clean a Leather Power Reclining Sectional

What you’ll need:
- Vacuum with a soft brush attachment
- pH-balanced leather cleaner
- Microfiber cloths
- Leather conditioner
Steps to follow:
- Unplug your power recliner.
- Vacuum gently with a soft brush attachment to lift dust and crumbs.
- Apply cleaner to a cloth, never directly on the leather.
- Wipe using light, circular motions.
- Remove excess cleaner with a dry cloth.
- Use a leather conditioner to keep it soft and prevent cracks.
- Air dry before reconnecting the power.
Avoid using water on leather, as it can stain or damage it.
4. How to Clean Faux Leather or Synthetic Sectionals

What you’ll need:
- Soft cloth
- Mild dish soap
- Warm water
- Vinegar (for stubborn spots)
Cleaning steps:
- Unplug first.
- Dust off with a soft, dry cloth.
- Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water.
- Dip and wring out a cloth, then gently wipe the surface.
- Remove soap residue with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry it with a soft towel.
- For tough stains, mix vinegar and water (50:50) and test a small spot first.
5. Don't Forget the Mechanism & Electrical Parts

You’ll want to be extra careful here since liquids and power components don’t get along.
What you’ll need:
- Dry microfiber cloth
- Soft brush
- Compressed air (optional)
How to clean it:
- Unplug your sectional. Always.
- Wipe dust from visible parts with a dry cloth.
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear out dust around motors, joints, and buttons.
- Avoid liquid sprays anywhere near these areas.
6. Extra Tips to Keep It Looking New

A little prevention can save you a lot of trouble. Here’s how you can make cleaning easier in the long run:
- Use a fabric or leather protector spray (if your manufacturer allows it).
- Clean spills right away. Don’t let them settle.
- Trim your pets’ nails to avoid accidental scratches.
- Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Avoid eating messy foods while reclining.
- Rotate and fluff cushions regularly.
7. When It’s Time to Call a Pro

Even if you’re diligent, some things need professional care:
- Stains that won’t budge
- Odors that linger
- Leather cracking or peeling
- A reclining mechanism that’s slow or stuck
In those cases, it’s best to let a certified upholstery cleaner handle it, preferably one familiar with power recliners.
Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
Even with good intentions, it’s easy to go wrong. Here’s what you should steer clear of:
- Using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia
- Soaking the fabric or leather with too much water
- Scrubbing aggressively
- Forgetting to unplug before cleaning
- Using a hair dryer or heater to speed up drying
Wrap Up
Keeping your power reclining sectional clean doesn’t have to be a chore. When you know what your furniture’s made of and how to care for it properly, you’ll feel confident handling everything from a quick dusting to an accidental coffee spill.
At Sofabed.com, we get how much you value a beautiful, cozy home. That’s why we’re always here with practical advice and smart care tips. A little regular maintenance can go a long way in protecting your favorite power reclining sectional sofa.
Need more ideas for furniture care or home styling tips? Come visit our website anytime at Sofabed.com; we’ve got plenty to share.