What tool should be used to agitate a spotting agent without distorting the fabric?

The appropriate tool for agitating a spotting agent without distorting the fabric is the tamping brush. This tool is designed specifically to gently agitate spots and stains in fabrics while minimizing the risk of damaging the fibers or altering the texture of the fabric. The tamping brush typically has soft bristles that allow for effective cleaning action without being too aggressive, ensuring that the integrity of the upholstery is maintained.

In contrast, while a scrubbing brush might be effective for tougher surfaces, its stiffer bristles can potentially damage delicate fabrics. A soft cloth can absorb some of the spotting agent but may not provide the necessary agitation for effective stain removal. The color brush, although it can be useful in certain cleaning applications, is generally designed for lint removal or color touch-up rather than agitating cleaning agents. Thus, the tamping brush stands out as the best option for carefully agitating spotting agents without risking distortion of the fabric.