You can tackle some furniture upholstery stains yourself, but there are times when it’s best to call in a professional.

Do you have funky furniture in desperate need of a cleaning? Here are four things to consider before you hire an upholstery cleaner.

1. Inspect furniture

If it’s a small spot, such as a minor drink spill or an ink stain, you may be able to clean it yourself using a few DIY tips. But for stubborn stains, pet odors or furniture that’s in need of a deep cleaning, you may want to hire a professional upholstery cleaning company.

2. Review warranty

If your furniture is still under warranty, cleaning it on your own may invalidate the warranty. Read over your warranty paperwork before attempting any cleaning. If you decide to hire a professional upholstery cleaner, discuss the warranty with the company before they begin work. There may be extra steps they’ll need to take to maintain your warranty. If you are unsure what your warranty requires, contact the company that holds the warranty.

3. Check references

“Check their reputation online,” says Jeff Bryant, owner of Pacific Carpet Cleaning in Newport Beach. Read reviews on a trusted website to see what other customers have to say.

Look for a company that is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification, Bryant advises, and seek out experienced companies.

4. Ask about equipment

If you’re doing a full-room cleaning, including carpeting, you may want a company that’s equipped with a truck-mounted steam cleaner. For furniture only, a portable steam cleaner should do the job, Bryant says.