How to Deal with Head Grease on Upholstery
How to Deal with Head Grease on Upholstery
Ever noticed dark, greasy patches forming where people usually rest their heads on your sofa or headboard? You’re not alone—it’s a super common problem. These marks come from the natural oils our skin produces, and over time, they build up on fabric and create those stubborn stains. It might not seem like a big deal at first, but once that grease sets in, it can be a real pain to get out. So, what exactly causes it—and how can you fix it?
What Even Is Head Grease?
Our skin produces oils to stay healthy and moisturised, and when you lean your head against furniture regularly—whether it’s the back of the couch or your bed’s headboard—those oils slowly transfer to the fabric. Add in hair products like gels, sprays, or leave-ins, and the buildup happens even faster. Over time, the fabric absorbs all that, and voilà: greasy, dark marks that are tough to ignore.
How Fabrics React to Oil
Not all upholstery handles grease the same way—some fabrics are more forgiving than others.
Synthetic fabrics (like polyester or micro fiber): These are made from oil-based materials, which means they naturally attract and hold onto grease. At first, they might clean up okay, but leave the grease too long and it gets harder to remove.
Natural fabrics (like cotton or linen): These are super absorbent, which is great for comfort but not so great when it comes to oils. They soak up grease fast, and once it bonds to the fibres, it can be nearly impossible to get out without professional help.
Why It Gets Worse Over Time
Head grease isn’t just an eyesore—it causes more problems the longer it sticks around.
It bonds tightly to the fabric, so the longer it’s there, the harder it is to remove.
It attracts dust and dirt, making those greasy spots even more noticeable.
It breaks down the fabric, which means your furniture wears out faster in those areas.
Why DIY Cleaning Doesn’t Always Cut It
Most people try to tackle grease stains with regular household cleaners, but unfortunately, that usually doesn’t do the trick—and can even make things worse.
Surface-only cleaning: Many products don’t get deep into the fabric, so the grease stays trapped underneath.
Leftover residue: Some cleaners leave a sticky residue behind, which attracts even more dirt.
Potential damage: Using the wrong cleaner or method on delicate fabric can cause discolouration or even break down the fibres.
Why Professional Cleaning is the Way to Go
When it comes to head grease, calling in the pros is often your best bet.Professional cleaners use special equipment and products that go deep into the fabric to lift out oils and grime—without damaging your furniture. Not only can they get rid of the stains, but they can also help extend the life of your upholstery.
