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Are there any fabrics I shouldn't use with Universal Cleaner?Updated a day ago

TL;DR: Avoid using Universal Cleaner on wool, silk, cashmere, mohair, alpaca, and other protein-based natural fibres. Those fibres need a specialist wash rather than a general-purpose surface cleaner. Check the care label, choose a WoolSafe approved product, and book a professional carpet cleaner for anything beyond light surface dust on a valuable wool or silk rug. Synthetic-fibre textiles like nylon, polyester and polypropylene are a different story.

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Koh Universal Cleaner is formulated for hard surfaces and synthetic-fibre textiles such as nylon, polyester and polypropylene. It is not recommended on wool, silk, cashmere, mohair, alpaca or other protein-based natural fibres. Protein fibres respond differently to cleaning chemistry than synthetics, and a higher alkaline solution can cause colour change, fibre damage, felting, shrinking or discolouration on wool or silk carpets, rugs and upholstery. Use a cleaning product formulated for delicate natural fibres instead. The same applies to wool throws, silk cushions, cashmere blankets, and any garment in those materials.

⚠ Not recommended on protein-based fibres

Wool, silk, cashmere, mohair, and alpaca are all protein-based. They respond differently to cleaning chemistry than synthetic fibres like nylon or polyester. Protein fibres need a specialist wash formulated for them, not a general-purpose surface cleaner.

Wool Silk Cashmere Mohair Alpaca

What should I use on wool or silk instead?

Check the care label on your carpet, rug, upholstery, or garment first, and follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidance. A specialist cleaner formulated for wool from a carpet cleaning supplier, often labelled WoolSafe approved, is the best option for regular maintenance and home spot treatment. For deeper cleans, stubborn stains, or valuable rugs, book a professional carpet cleaner who has experience with wool and silk. Rug care is one area where the cost of a professional clean is consistently lower than the cost of damaging an expensive rug. For wool throws and silk cushions, hand-wash with a wool wash following the care label, or take them to a dry cleaner.

✓ Better alternatives

Check your carpet's care label. Use a specialist cleaner formulated for wool, usually labelled WoolSafe approved. For deep cleans or stubborn stains, book a professional carpet cleaner with wool experience. Manufacturer guidance always comes first.

Check the care label WoolSafe approved Professional cleaners

What do I do about a fresh spill on wool while I find the right product?

Act fast, blot (don't rub), and use plain water only. Blotting with a clean dry Koh cloth lifts most fresh liquid before it sets. Work from the outer edge of the spill inward to avoid spreading the stain. If the spill is food, drink, or anything water-soluble, dab lightly with cool water on a clean cloth. Avoid soaking the carpet backing. Press dry with a clean towel and let the area air dry. Leave any deeper treatment to a specialist wool cleaner or a professional. The faster you act on a fresh spill, the less likely you'll need anything stronger than plain water.

✓ Emergency wool care

1

Act quickly and blot, don't rub. Rubbing spreads the stain and can felt the wool fibres. Blot with a clean dry cloth.

2

Work from the outside in. Stops the stain spreading outward into clean fibres.

3

Plain water only for first aid. Cool water on a clean cloth, dabbed lightly. Don't saturate the carpet backing.

4

Dry thoroughly. Press dry with a clean towel, then let the area air dry. For deeper stains, call in a professional.

Koh Universal Cleaner Starter Kit

Universal Cleaner Starter Kit

Universal Cleaner, one Atomiser Spray Bottle and one Universal Cloths Mixed 4pk in a single box. Suits hard surfaces and synthetic-fibre textiles, not wool or silk.

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Koh Universal Cleaner

Universal Cleaner

Suits hard surfaces and synthetic-fibre textiles. Not recommended for wool, silk or other protein-based fibres. Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) certified, Allergy UK certified, Sensitive Choice approved, Eczema Association of Australasia recognised. Made in Australia.

View productAdd to cartRead reviews
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Last reviewed: September 2026 · Koh Australia

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