How to Clean Upholstery Properly?

Are you staring at your tired-looking upholstery and wondering how to bring it back to life? You're not alone. Upholstery is essential to our living spaces, but it often bears the brunt of spills, dust, and daily wear. The good news is that rejuvenating your upholstery is achievable by:

• Using the right cleaning tools like a soft brush, vacuum, and microfiber cloths.
• Choosing the proper cleaning solutions suitable for your upholstery fabric.
• Regularly vacuuming to keep the dust and allergens at bay.
• Spot cleaning stains promptly to avoid them setting in.
• Seeking professional help for deep cleaning once in a while.

In this guide, we will detail each of these points, providing you with a comprehensive roadmap to clean your upholstery and bring it back to its former glory. Let's roll up our sleeves and get started!

Step 1: Know Your Upholstery

What’s Your Fabric?

It's vital to know what fabric your upholstery is made of. Peek at the tag or the manual. Cotton likes a gentle touch, while man-made fabrics can handle a bit more scrubbing. Treat fancy fabrics like velvet with extra care.

Step 2: Prep Before You Start

Get Rid of Surface Dirt

First things first, hoover up any loose dirt. Use the small nozzle to reach into all the nooks. Watch out for any spots or spills.

Test Cleaning Products

Always do a patch test with your cleaning stuff on a hidden part of the upholstery. Different shades may need different cleaning methods. Regular hoovering will help your upholstery stay looking great for longer.

Step 3: Arm Yourself with Cleaning Tools

Assemble Your Cleaning Kit

Before diving into cleaning, ensure you have all the gear you need. You’ll need two microfibre cloths, one for washing and one for drying. Fill a bucket with warm water and a bit of dish soap. Get a soft brush or an old toothbrush for tricky bits. For stubborn marks, you might need a special cleaner. Consider hiring a steam cleaner or call a pro to do it. Always do a patch test first.

Step 4: The Cleaning Process

Deep Cleaning Begins

Now, for the main event. Here’s how to give your upholstery a deep clean:

• Hoover all over.
• Spot clean any spills or stains.
• If you have a steam cleaner, use it to clean the whole thing. Follow the instructions that come with it.
• Let it air dry properly before you sit on it again.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Final Steps to Freshness

Once your upholstery is clean, you’re almost done. Just do these last few steps:

• Hoover again with a brush attachment.
• Use a soft brush to dust it off.
• Let it air out until it’s totally dry.
• Plump up cushions and put them back.
• Give it a final spray with a fabric freshener for a nice smell.

Step 6: Looking After Your Upholstery

Care After Cleaning

Now that your upholstery is spick and span, keep it that way! Here’s how:

• Keep it away from the direct sun to avoid fading.
• Plump up cushions to keep them in shape.
• Use a brush or hoover to get rid of any dirt or crumbs.
• Consider using a fabric protector spray to shield against spills and stains.

Step 7: Keeping Smells at Bay

Winning the Battle Against Odours

Sometimes, even after a deep clean, smells can linger. Here's how to handle them:

• Sprinkle baking soda generously over the upholstery.
• Leave it overnight, as it helps absorb the odours.
• Vacuum thoroughly the next day.
• For really tough smells, consider using a fabric odour remover. Just make sure to test it on a small area first.

Step 8: Dealing with Stubborn Stains

Special Tactics for Tricky Marks

Some stains need extra attention. Here are a few tips:

• For ink stains, dab the stain with rubbing alcohol using a cloth.
• For grease stains, sprinkle cornstarch over the stain, let it sit for a few hours and then vacuum.
• Blot the stain with a mix of liquid detergent and warm water for coffee stains.
• Remember to blot stains and never rub them, as rubbing can worsen them.

Step 9: Regular Maintenance

Little and Often Keeps Upholstery Happy

Make cleaning your upholstery a regular part of your routine.

• Vacuum once a week to keep dust and dirt at bay.
• Rotate cushions regularly for even wear.
• Address spills as soon as they happen to prevent staining.
• Have a professional cleaning once a year for deep-down freshness.

Step 10: Protective Measures

Keep Your Upholstery Safe

• Use arm caps to protect the arms of sofas and chairs from wear and tear.
• Consider using a slipcover for your furniture, especially if you have pets or children.
• Avoid placing your furniture in direct sunlight, as this can cause fading.

Step 11: Know When to Call the Pros

Professional Help for Special Cases

Sometimes, it’s best to call in the experts. Here’s when:

• Your upholstery is antique or particularly delicate.
• The stains or damage are too severe to handle yourself.
• You’re not sure which cleaning products are safe to use.

Make sure you choose a reputable company, check their reviews and ask about their experience with your type of upholstery.

Final Thoughts

With all these steps and tips, your upholstery should not just be clean but should stay looking good for years to come! A little effort goes a long way in maintaining the beauty and longevity of your beloved furniture. Happy cleaning! Now that you’re an expert in upholstery care, why not share the love? If you found this guide helpful, don’t keep it to yourself - share it with friends and family who could benefit from these tips.