How To Clean Upholstery

Upholstery Cleaning Tips

Upholstered furniture may be is also comfortable and attractive but they can also be a hassle to keep looking nice and clean. Regular attention and quick action around any staining is the key combined with an occasional deep clean which may involve shampooing the fabric.

Dusting

This is a common enemy (dust can settle on upholstered furniture just as on hard surfaces) and needs to be tackled on a regular basis, at least once a month. Otherwise, it will solidify into grime that is harder to get rid of and may leave permanent stains and discolorations.

Use a vacuum cleaner with the correct attachments (the upholstery nozzle and the crevice tool) or a brush, although this is less ideal as it will also scatter dust around the room and into the air. Note, though, that if you have any cushions that are filled with down, only vacuum them if they are lined with a down-proof ticking, as otherwise the vacuum may suck the down out. in this case, it may be better to use the brush.

Shampooing Your Upholstery

Nowadays, possible potential to get specially formulated upholstery shampoos from your local hardware store or even supermarket that are remarkably effective and very easy and convenient to use. However, if you wish, you can also make do with a homemade version.

Make up a solution of ¼ cup liquid dishwashing or laundry detergent and one cup of warm water.
Whip this up (using a hand mixer) until dry suds form, so that it looks like whipped cream.
Apply the dry suds to a small, inconspicuous test area on your upholstery using a cloth or soft brush. Scrub lightly and then allow to dry. Ideally, the area should look the same but cleaner. If this is the case, you can go on to do all the upholstery. read more...