Cleaning the upholstery the right way is very important to keep it looking its best. Inappropriate cleaning can damage it unknowingly and reduce its lifespan.
To help you give it the best care, here are some dos and don’ts of upholstery cleaning to keep in mind.
Dos of Upholstery Cleaning
⇒ Vacuum regularly
Vacuum your sofas and couches at least once every week. That helps clear the surface dirt and prevents it from building up and settling deeper.
⇒ Read the care label
Always read the upholstery cleaning codes attached to it before you clean. That will help you determine the right method to clean it and ensure the best care.
Additionally, you should also follow product usage steps while using any commercial cleaner.
⇒ Spot-test the solutions
Whether you use a store-bought or DIY solution, spot-test it on a hidden spot before using it. This will prevent you from ruining the entire piece in case of any chances of discoloration.
⇒ Start from the edges
When treating a stain, always clean it from the edges first and then move towards the center. It will save it from spreading more.
⇒ Use safe cleaners
Use green cleaners that do not contain any harsh chemicals. Safe cleaners will prevent damage to its fibers and help it last longer.
⇒ Use the right amount of solution
Always use the cleaners in the right quantity as described. Anything less or more than the right amount can either be insufficient or damaging.
⇒ Give it a final ‘rinse’
After you spot clean, give your upholstery a wipe with a cloth damp in clean water. It is important to clear the residue left after cleaning.
⇒ Let it dry before you use
After cleaning the upholstery, allow the fabric to dry completely before you use it. Turn your fans on and open the windows to dry any moisture left behind.
Don’ts of Upholstery Cleaning
⇒ Don’t let the stains sit
Clean the spills as soon as you notice them. Leaving them to sit will make them stubborn and difficult to clean. So, blot the stains quickly with paper towels and treat them then and there.
⇒ Don’t rub the stains
While removing a stain, avoid rubbing it. Rubbing can allow it to enter even deeper and make it worse. Instead of rubbing, blot it gently and absorb as much as possible.
⇒ Don’t overwet
Use water sparingly while cleaning your upholstery. Do not oversaturate the fabric. Doing so can leave moisture underneath and promote mold growth.
⇒ Don’t treat the entire area at once (go sectionally)
Do not apply cleaner to the entire piece at once. This will dry the solution and leave a residue, making the cleaning difficult. Clean section by section instead.
⇒ Don’t use heat
Never use high temperatures to clean your upholstery. Excessive heat can damage its delicate fibers and reduce its lifespan while also making the fabric shrink.
⇒ Don’t use the same method for all types
Never use a generalized cleaning method to treat all types of upholstery fabrics. Clean your upholstery as per its type to ensure specialized care.
⇒ Don’t delay deep cleaning
Have your upholstery deep-cleaned periodically. Delaying it can increase the build-up of dirt and make it dull.
