Tips to Remember When Cleaning Upholstered Furniture
Most households today invest in quality upholstered furniture. While it may be a popular option due to its durability, many people overlook that upholstery requires special care because it tends to be more delicate and more likely to be damaged by improper cleaning.
Even if your furniture is covered in a material that looks like it's dirt-repellent, it's still possible for grime to build up on it. If you want to do a little cleaning for your upholstered pieces, here are some tips to keep in mind.
Learn How to Read the Cleaning Codes
Your furniture likely has tags that have letters that refer to which kinds of cleaning solutions can be used and how they should be applied. The first two codes indicate the fabric's resistance to dust and water, and the second two codes inform you of the color and how much of a shine the furniture's surface is expected to have.
You can also see what material the furniture is made of and how you can clean it safely. Here are some codes you might want to learn about:
WS: Use a mild detergent- SD: Use a neutral, non-ammonia based cleaning agent and clean dry
- SF: Dry clean only
- WR: Water-resistant, clean with a soft, damp cloth
- WS: Water-resistant, clean with a soft dry cloth
- WV: Vacuum
If your furniture doesn't seem to have any cleaning codes on it, look at the care and cleaning instructions label. Stains are also often labeled with a code to note the level of stain resistance.
Never Scrub It
Scrubbing will only leave behind more loose fibers. Instead, use a soft cloth or a microfiber one that can't leave behind any threads.
Steam Clean Tough Stains
It's easy to get the dirt out of the fabric and leave the spot behind. If you want to clean your furniture truly deep and make sure it stays spotless, use steam. Steam cleaning removes every last bit of dirt from fabrics. Cleaning solutions that don't contain water or have a low water content tend to use harsh chemicals, so they may damage the furniture.
Only Use Neutral Cleaners
Certain kinds of cleaners can actually bleach the color out of your furniture. That means you can end up with a much paler-colored sofa that you don't really want. If you're only going to have one kind of cleaner on hand, make it something neutral. A great option is a non-ammonia-based cleaner.
Use a Soft Brush
A stiff brush is a bad idea for upholstery and will only rip up the fibers and leave behind dust. Instead, a soft brush or a lint roller is a better idea.
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuum your furniture at least once a month to remove dirt and other debris from the surface. The more often you vacuum, the less dirt and dust will settle on your furniture. If you've spilled liquids on your furniture, you might need to vacuum more than once a month. You might also need to clean more if you've got pets.
Conclusion
Upholstery cleaning without damaging the item is not easy, especially if you have no idea about the proper ways to do it. To ensure its safety and longevity, it is best to seek professional help. If you follow this guide, you will be able to keep your upholstery clean at all times.
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