A DIY Guide to Properly Cleaning Your Upholstered Furniture
Posted on: 16 March 2018
Cleaning your furniture seems straightforward. However, make a few simple mistakes, and you risk damaging it. While professional cleaning is often recommended, you can save some money by cleaning the upholstery on your own. If you are a DIY enthusiast, this will also be an opportunity for you to put your skills to the test. Here is a guide to proper upholstery cleaning.
Act Quickly to Remove Spills
If you have a spill on your upholstery, it is crucial to work quickly to get rid of it. Ignoring spills will allow the stains to set in and become more difficult to remove. For this reason, blot any liquids that spill on the upholstery using a dry, absorbent cloth such as a paper towel. The key word here is to blot or dab. Rubbing the spill works to spread it out and can even damage your fabric. When dabbing the spill, remember to start from the outside and work your way towards the centre. Doing this also prevents the spill from spreading.
Check Your Furniture for Cleaning Instructions
Before you start cleaning your furniture upholstery, it pays to understand the kind fabric you are dealing with. Your furniture should have a tag with the cleaning instructions or codes that will let you know the best possible ways to tackle stains. For example, you will know whether you can use water to clean the fabric or if only vacuuming is recommended. Some types of fabrics also require that you use a dry-cleaning detergent or a steam vacuum with a mild detergent, whereas others only recommend the use of dry cleaner detergents.
Unfortunately, if you own antique or vintage furniture, the pieces may not have the tag with the cleaning instructions. In such cases, you need to conduct a patch test before you use cleaning products. All you have to do is apply a solution of your cleaning product to a hidden section, such as a spot on the upholstery beneath the furniture, and see the effect your solution will have on the material.
Know How to Handle Different Types of Stains
Identifying the types of stains on the upholstery will keep you on the right track of finding the best possible way to clean them. For instance, steam cleaning tends to work well for mild stains, such as wine and coffee spills or urine from pets. However, oil-based stains tend to be harder to lift, which is why chemical-based cleaning products may be required. However, before you use any chemical-based cleaner, read the instructions carefully to make sure it is ideal for your type of fabric. You can even do the patch test just to be sure.
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