Upholstery cleaning is an important part of maintaining the beauty and longevity of your furniture. Upholstered furniture can be a great addition to any home, but it requires regular maintenance and care to keep it looking its best.
In this article, we will discuss how to clean upholstered furniture the right way so that you can enjoy your furniture for years to come. We will cover topics such as the types of fabrics used in upholstery, the different cleaning methods available, and tips for keeping your upholstery looking like new. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to keep your upholstered furniture looking great for years to come!
Types of Upholstery Fabrics
When it comes to upholstery fabrics, there are a variety of different materials that can be used. The most common types of fabrics used in upholstery are cotton, linen, velvet, leather, and microfiber. Each type of fabric has its unique characteristics and benefits.
Cotton is a natural fibre that is lightweight and breathable. It is also very durable and easy to clean.
Linen is a strong and durable fabric that is also lightweight and breathable. It is often used in upholstery because of its natural resistance to wrinkles and stains.
Velvet is a luxurious fabric that adds a touch of elegance to any room. It is soft and plush but can be difficult to clean due to its delicate nature.
Leather is a classic choice for upholstery and is known for its durability and luxurious look. It is also easy to clean but can be susceptible to scratches and fading over time.
Microfiber is a synthetic material that is soft, durable, and easy to clean. It is also resistant to stains and wrinkles, making it a great choice for upholstery.
Cleaning Methods for Upholstered Furniture
When it comes to cleaning upholstered furniture, there are several methods available. The most common method is vacuuming, which can be done with a standard vacuum cleaner or an upholstery attachment. Vacuuming helps to remove dirt and debris from the fabric and can help to prevent further damage.
For tougher stains, spot cleaning may be necessary. Spot cleaning involves using a mild detergent and a damp cloth to scrub the stain gently. It is important to test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on the entire piece of furniture.
For more delicate fabrics, such as velvet or leather, dry cleaning may be necessary. Dry cleaning involves using a special solvent to remove stains without damaging the fabric.
The 5 Principles of Upholstery Cleaning
The five principles of upholstery cleaning are: 1) Vacuuming, 2) Spot Cleaning, 3) Dry Cleaning, 4) Stain Removal, and 5) Protection.
- Vacuuming – Vacuuming is the most basic form of upholstery cleaning and should be done regularly to remove dirt and debris from the fabric. A standard vacuum cleaner or an upholstery attachment can be used.
- Spot Cleaning – Spot cleaning is necessary for tougher stains and involves using a mild detergent and a damp cloth to scrub the stain gently. It is important to test the cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area of the fabric before using it on the entire piece of furniture.
- Dry Cleaning – Dry cleaning is necessary for more delicate fabrics, such as velvet or leather. It involves using a special solvent to remove stains without damaging the fabric.
- Stain Removal – Stain removal is necessary for tougher stains and can involve using a mild detergent, a damp cloth, or a special cleaning solution.
- Protection – After cleaning upholstered furniture, it is important to protect the fabric from future damage. This can be done by using a fabric protector or applying a protective coating to the fabric.
Following these five principles of upholstery cleaning will help to keep your furniture looking its best for years to come.
What Should Not Be Done When Cleaning Upholstered Furniture
When cleaning upholstered furniture, certain things should not be done. These include:
1. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the fabric, as these can damage the material and cause discolouration.
2. Do not use a steam cleaner on delicate fabrics such as velvet or leather, as this can cause shrinkage and damage to the fabric.
3 . Do not use a vacuum cleaner with a beater bar attachment, as this can damage the fabric.
4. Do not rub or scrub the fabric too vigorously, as this can cause damage to the material.
5. Do not use bleach on any type of upholstery fabric, as this can cause discolouration and fading.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your upholstered furniture is cleaned correctly and will last for years.
What Products Are Good for Cleaning Upholstery
When it comes to cleaning upholstery, there are a variety of products available that can help to make the job easier. Some of the best products for cleaning upholstery include:
- Upholstery Shampoo: Upholstery shampoo is specially formulated to clean and protect fabric upholstery. It is designed to be gentle on fabrics while providing effective cleaning power.
- Upholstery Cleaner: Upholstery cleaner is a mild detergent that can spot tough stains and dirt from upholstered furniture.
- Fabric Protector: A fabric protector is a spray-on product that helps to protect the fabric from future stains and damage.
- Stain Remover: Stain remover is a special cleaning solution that can remove tough stains from upholstered furniture.
- Vacuum Cleaner: A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment is ideal for removing dirt and dust from upholstered furniture.
When it comes to upholstery cleaning, there are a few brands that stand out from the rest. These brands have been around for years and have earned a reputation for providing quality products and services. Here are some of the most popular brands for upholstery cleaning:
Stanley Steemer is one of the oldest and most trusted names in upholstery cleaning. They offer a wide range of services, including deep cleaning, spot cleaning, and fabric protection.
Chem-Dry is another popular upholstery cleaning brand that offers a variety of services, such as deep cleaning, stain removal, and fabric protection.
ServiceMaster Clean is a professional upholstery cleaning company that offers a variety of services, including deep cleaning, spot cleaning, and fabric protection.
Oxi Fresh is a green upholstery cleaning company that uses natural ingredients to clean and protect fabrics.
Clean-Rite is a professional upholstery cleaning service that offers deep cleaning, spot cleaning, and fabric protection services.
In addition to these popular brands, many other upholstery cleaning companies offer quality services. It is important to research the different companies and their services before deciding. Additionally, it is important to read customer reviews and ask for references from previous customers to ensure that you are getting the best service possible.
DIY Spot Removers for Upholstery Stains
DIY spot removers can be a great way to tackle small upholstery stains without having to call in a professional. Several DIY solutions can be used to remove spots and stains from upholstered furniture.
One of the most popular DIY spot removers is a mixture of white vinegar and water. Simply mix equal parts of each ingredient and apply it directly to the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.
Another DIY spot remover is baking soda and water. Mix equal parts of each ingredient together and apply it directly to the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth.
Finally, club soda can also be used as an effective spot remover. Simply pour the club soda directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth.
There are many different recipes for DIY spot removers, but here is one that is easy to make and effective.
To make the spot remover, you will need the following:
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of baking soda
- A spray bottle
Mix the ingredients in a bowl and then pour them into the spray bottle. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients. Simply spray the spot remover directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes before blotting it up with a clean cloth.
Be sure to test the spot remover on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure that it won’t cause any damage. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any cleaning product.
No matter which DIY spot remover you choose, be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure that it won’t cause any damage. Additionally, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any cleaning product.
Tips for Maintaining Upholstered Furniture
Maintaining upholstered furniture is essential for keeping it looking its best. Here are some tips to help you maintain your upholstered furniture:
- Vacuum regularly – Regular vacuuming helps to remove dirt and dust from the fabric, which can cause discolouration and damage over time.
- Spot clean spills immediately – Spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent staining and damage to the fabric.
- Use a fabric protector – Applying a fabric protector can help to protect the fabric from future stains and damage.
- Avoid direct sunlight – Direct sunlight can cause fading and discolouration of fabrics, so it is best to keep furniture away from windows or other sources of direct sunlight.
- Regularly rotate and flip cushions – Rotating and flipping cushions helps to ensure even wear on the fabric, which can help to extend the life of your upholstered furniture.
- Use a lint roller – A lint roller effectively removes pet hair and other debris from upholstered furniture.
- Have it professionally cleaned – Professional cleaning can help to remove deep-seated dirt and stains that regular cleaning cannot.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your upholstered furniture is kept in good condition and will last for years to come.
Troubleshooting Common Upholstery Issues
Troubleshooting common upholstery issues can be a challenge, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible to restore your furniture to its original condition.
Common upholstery issues include fading, discolouration, staining, and fabric damage. According to a survey conducted by the American Cleaning Institute, nearly 60% of respondents reported having experienced some form of upholstery damage in the past year. Additionally, over 30% of respondents reported that their furniture had become stained or discoloured due to improper cleaning techniques. Finally, nearly 20% of respondents reported that their furniture had suffered from fading due to exposure to direct sunlight.
Here are some tips for troubleshooting common upholstery issues:
Stains: Stains on upholstered furniture can be difficult to remove, but there are a few steps you can take to try and remove them. First, try spot cleaning with a mild detergent or upholstery cleaner. If that doesn’t work, you can try using a stain remover designed for upholstery.
Odours: Odours in upholstered furniture can be caused by pet accidents, smoke, and other sources. To remove odours, you can use an enzyme-based cleaner or an odour neutraliser.
Tears and rips: Tears and rips in upholstered furniture can be repaired with a patch kit or by using fabric glue.
Discolouration: Discolouration of fabrics can be caused by direct sunlight, so it is important to keep furniture away from windows or other sources of direct sunlight. You can also try using a fabric dye to restore the colour of the fabric.
When it comes to upholstery cleaning, many people are tempted to try and tackle the job themselves. While DIY upholstery cleaning can be a great way to save money, there are certain situations where it is best to call in a professional cleaner.
If you have stubborn stains that won’t come out with regular cleaning methods, or if your furniture has been damaged by water or smoke, it is best to call in a professional cleaner. Professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to tackle even the toughest upholstery cleaning jobs.
In addition to calling in a professional cleaner for tough stains and damage, it is also a good idea to have your upholstered furniture professionally cleaned regularly. Professional cleaning can help remove deep-seated dirt and grime that regular cleaning cannot and can help extend your furniture’s life. Professional cleaners also use specialised equipment that can reach deep into the fabric of your furniture, ensuring a thorough and effective clean.
Conclusion
Upholstery cleaning can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible to keep your upholstered furniture looking its best. Regular vacuuming, spot cleaning spills immediately, using a fabric protector, avoiding direct sunlight, regularly rotating and flipping cushions, using a lint roller, and having it professionally cleaned are all important steps for maintaining upholstered furniture.
Additionally, troubleshooting common upholstery issues such as stains, odours, tears and rips, and discolouration can help to restore your furniture to its original condition. With these tips in mind, you can ensure that your upholstered furniture will last for years to come.