When your upholstery becomes soiled, it's easy to panic.
Furniture can be extraordinarily expensive, and can completely tie a room together.
Perhaps you have a white couch with a red wine spill.
Maybe a pet had an accident on your favorite lounge chair.
Maybe a child dropped biscuit crumbs all over the love seat.
Cleaning your upholstery does not have to be a nightmare, and you don't have to cover everything in heavy plastic.
Most upholstery includes a cleaning code printed on the tag.
These codes are an easy-to read indicator of how your furniture should be treated.
W: Clean only with water.
The fabric could be damaged by the use of solvents or detergents.
S: This fabric may be cleaned with solvent.
X: It's time to call in the professionals.
Water or solvent could cause problems.
Before using any kind of cleaning chemicals or detergents, it's best to "spot test" your upholstery.
Try using the solvent on a piece of the furniture that is usually out of sight.
This will let you know of any adverse reactions to your cleaning product(s).
When cleaning upholstery, first, you'll want to remove loose dirt, dander, and debris using a vacuum cleaner, duster, or cloth designed for cleaning fabric.
This ensures that you aren't rubbing dirt into the fabric of your couch, and could save you a heftier cleaning job in the future.
If you're facing a stain or spot, commercial cleaning solvents can be purchased at many different stores.
You can also mix your own solvent using dishwashing liquid and warm water.
Some people have found success using diluted vinegar.
What you use to tackle a stain is largely dependent on the nature of the stain, but cleaning it is usually the same process: - Place the solution on the stain.
- Allow the solution to set for a few minutes to penetrate and begin loosening the stain from your fabric.
- Gently remove the solution (and hopefully the stain) with a soft sponge, not pressing too firmly.
Renting a commercial steam cleaner should be avoided in most cases.
These types of cleaners may be effective at removing stains, however they can leave behind mildew and dampness.
In extreme cases, mold can grow, affecting your family's allergies.
If you encounter a tough stain that you can't seem to make work of, call in an expert.
It usually costs considerably less than you'd think, and you can be sure the stain will be removed.