10 Commandments of Upholstery Cleaning

Posted on 05/05/2023

Keeping Your Upholstery Neat and Clean

Furnishings can add to the comfort and the style of a room, but the heavy use and wear and tear can ruin the appearance of your upholstery. Proper care is essential to preserve your pieces looking crisp and clean and to extend their lifespan. Although it is hard to avoid the spills and stains, especially in a busy household, there are a couple of things you can do keep your upholstery neat and clean.  

1. Clean regularly

Even brand new furniture requires regular upkeep. Even if you can’t see the dirt, you can be sure it’s there. The furnishings’ fabrics tend to collect dust and particles that can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Regular upholstery cleaning is important, but it shouldn’t necessarily be difficult. Vacuum at least once a week to prevent the grime and dirt from building up. If your furniture has removable covers, toss them in the washing machine and follow the instructions on the label.

2. Vacuum first

Before applying any upholstery cleaning products, vacuum the surface to remove the chunks and dust. When wet, the dirt will further stain the furnishings. Use the right attachment to avoid damaging the fabrics. A soft brush attachment will do the job.

3. Clean up stains as soon as possible

Unfortunately spills and stains happen. Clean the spot right away, before it sets into the furniture fabrics. This way, you have better chances to remove the spot. Plus, you will spend less time and efforts treating the area with expensive upholstery treatments.

4. Blot,  don’t rub

This is a major rule, when removing a spill from upholstered furniture. Use a white paper towel or cloth to soak the liquid. Rubbing would only smudge the spot and make it worse. Work from the outer side towards the centre of the stain. Avoid using coloured paper and towels, because they may transfer the ink or the dye into the fabric.  

5. Understand the labels

Before you attempt to clean your upholstered furniture, check the labels for cleaning instructions.  The tag comes with codes that provide general guidance on what kind of cleaning product to use. Sadly, there is no universal product you can use on all kinds of fabrics. Some textiles can be cleaned with water-based detergents, while other types can be treated only with solvent based cleaners. The codes will help you pick a suitable solution.

6. Always test before applying

It’s a good idea to test your cleaning solution on a hidden patch of the furnishing. Otherwise, you risk ruining your upholstery with a dreadful discolouration spot. Apply a bit of the solution on the patch and wait for 30 seconds. Check for any signs of colour transfer.

7. When in doubt, call the professionals

If you’ve lost the furniture’s tag or you are unsure about how to clean the upholstery, turn to the experts. Most reliable and trained professionals have the knowledge and experience to determine the best way to clean your furniture.

8. Don’t over-wet the surface

Applying too much water or upholstery cleaner may spread the stain and wet through the furnishing’s padding, turning it into a perfect environment for mildew, mould and bacteria. Don’t attempt to dry the surface with a hair dryer. Instead, blot until dry.

9. Deep clean once an year

Depending on the fabric, colour and use, deep clean your furniture every year or two. You can either hire a professional cleaning company or do it yourself.

10. Take preventive measures

It can be fairly simple to take care of your upholstered furniture if you prevent some avoidable damage. Reduce fabric fading by limiting the full sun exposure of the textile. Vacuum regularly to reduce the build-up of grime and dirt.

Follow these 10 simple rules and you will enjoy the comfort and beauty of your furnishings for years to come.