5 Common Upholstery Problems and How to Fix Them

Furniture is made to be lived on, so it’s no surprise that over time, even your favorite couch or chair starts to show signs of wear. Whether it’s a rip in the armrest, sagging cushions, or faded color, these issues don’t always mean it’s time to throw the piece out. In fact, many common upholstery problems are fixable—and often easier to deal with than most people think.

At Gomez Upholstery, we help homeowners bring new life to old furniture with expert repairs and full reupholstery services. Here are five of the most common issues we see, plus practical advice on how to fix upholstery—either with simple at-home solutions or professional help.

1. Fading and Sun Damage

Furniture placed near large windows or in sunlit rooms often develops faded, uneven fabric over time. UV rays can weaken fibers and bleach colors, especially on lighter or natural upholstery fabric.

How to fix it:

• Rearrange the layout to minimize direct sun exposure, or use curtains and UV-blocking film on windows.
  
• Mild fading can sometimes be improved with fabric-safe dye.
  
• For a long-term solution, consider reupholstering the piece with fade-resistant fabric.
  

2. Sagging or Flat Cushions

A sagging couch cushion not only looks bad—it can also make the furniture uncomfortable to sit on. This usually happens when the foam inside breaks down or the support webbing stretches out.

How to fix it:

• Insert cushion supports or plywood beneath the cushions to improve firmness.
  
• Replace foam inserts with high-density options for a more permanent solution.
  
• If the sagging is severe, a professional can rebuild the internal support system and restore comfort.
  

3. Torn Upholstery and Fabric Damage

Rips, fraying, or holes are among the most visible and frustrating upholstery problems, particularly on the arms or seams of well-used furniture.

How to fix it:

• Use fabric glue or an iron-on patch to mend small tears or loose seams.
  
• Decorative throws or covers can hide light damage temporarily.
  
• If the torn upholstery is in a prominent area or continues to rip, reupholstering is the best way to restore a clean, cohesive look.
  

4. Stains and Spills

From red wine to pet accidents, stains are almost inevitable—especially on light-colored or untreated upholstery fabric. Left too long, they can become permanent and leave unpleasant odors behind.

How to fix it:

• Clean spills immediately with a gentle, fabric-safe cleaning solution.
  
• Sprinkle baking soda to neutralize odors, then vacuum thoroughly.
  
• For stubborn stains, professional upholstery cleaning can restore freshness without damaging the fabric.
  

5. Loose Buttons, Tufting, and Trim

Design details like tufted backs, buttons, or piping make furniture more attractive, but they also come loose over time with regular use.

How to fix it:

• Reattach buttons with a strong needle and upholstery thread or fabric glue for a quick fix.
  
• If the original materials are lost or damaged, a pro can match replacements and restore detailing to its original look.
  

Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture is especially prone to faded cushions, ripped fabric, and worn-out foam due to constant exposure to sun, rain, and fluctuating temperatures. If your patio chairs or loungers are looking worse for wear, reupholstering them with UV-resistant and water-repellent fabric can extend their life dramatically.

When It’s Time to Call a Professional

DIY fixes are great for short-term solutions and minor issues—but when it comes to larger damage, structural repair, or complete transformations, working with a professional upholsterer makes all the difference.

At Gomez Upholstery, we combine quality materials with decades of hands-on experience to restore your old furniture to a like-new condition. Whether you want to preserve a piece that fits your space perfectly or simply want a fresh update without buying new, we’re here to help.

Need help fixing upholstery issues?
Call Gomez Upholstery at 314-832-8331 or fill out our Contact Form for a free consultation. We’ll inspect your furniture, recommend the best options, and provide a solution that lasts.