Everything You Need to Know About Upholstery Cleaning

We come into contact with upholstery every single day. Yet, most of us do not think about upholstery cleaning. One of the top reasons is just plain ignorance! Most people avoid it because they do not know what upholstery cleaning is. 

If you are not certain what upholstery cleaning is all about, we have all the answers for you.

Let’s find out more!

What is Upholstery Cleaning?

Upholstery is the fabric that covers most of your furniture like sofas, couches, sectionals, arms chairs, love seats, stools, ottomans, and others. 

It is the elements that add aesthetic elements and comfort to your furniture. As the name suggests, upholstery is the process of cleaning the fabric on your furniture. However, upholstery cleaning is much more difficult than you expect.

Upholstery is typically made of relatively delicate and expensive fabrics such as cotton. Unfortunately, they are not easily removable. You can run them in your washing machine. Upholstery cleaning requires in-depth knowledge of the fabric and special equipment. 

What are the Benefits of Regular Upholstery Cleaning?

You read your favorite book, take naps, gather around to watch a family show around your furniture. Regular upholstery deep cleaning is essential since you do much around your furniture. Some of the top reasons why upholstery cleaning is crucial are –

• Get Rid of Bacteria – Even if you have cleaned that spill off the furniture properly, it can still be present in the form of bacteria. They can get into the fabric and affect people with allergies and lung problems. Upholstery cleaning can help you get rid of bacteria from home and allow furniture to retain its appeal.
• Creates Sanitary Conditions – Your furniture is a breeding ground for bacteria and dirt. It can create an unsanitary environment for you and your family. Having your upholstery cleaned can remove the dust and other food particles. It will make your house sparkle and allow you to enjoy a cleaner house. 
• Remove Allergens – Since your furniture absorbs whatever is in the environment around you, the upholstery is filled with allergens. These can make your allergies act up and make you sick. Cleaning upholstery can remove the allergens and ease your symptoms.
• Eliminates odor – Over time, your upholstery may hold a foul odor which can be difficult to eradicate with the usual cleaning. Upholstery cleaning can eliminate the smell and improve the scent in your home.
• Extend Life of Furniture – Allowing the accumulation of specks of dirt and food waste on your upholstery can weaken the fibers and cause internal damage. By cleaning them regularly, you can make them look new and ensure they last for long. 

Having your upholstery cleaned regularly can help you make your home cleaner and healthier for everyone living there. 

How to Clean Upholstery Like A Pro?

Upholstery cleaning prevents stains from accumulating on the upholstery. The best way to get rid of them instantly is to understand how to get rid of them when they happen, as most of them are unavoidable. Once you know the fabric and how to handle cleaning, it will become easier for you to be committed to cleanliness.

Here are some tips on how to clean upholstery from experts –

Step 1 – Check the Label – Before cleaning upholstered furniture, read the instruction labels to check the recommendation by the manufacturer. You may be able to remove the upholstery and run them in the washing machine. Ensure you treat stained spots before you put them in the washing machine. Wash light-colored fabrics such as cushion covers with hot water and darker ones with cold water. 

Step 2 – Identify the Material – Use the following tips to help you identify the appropriate method of cleaning –

• Check the manufacturer tag on the upholstery to identify the material. They usually specify how to clean the furniture using codes. W means water-based detergent, and S means water-free detergent. WS means you can use either of the two to clean the upholstery. O is usually tagged on organic material and needs to be cleaned using cold water. 
• Purchase a cleaner depending on what works for your couch and use only them.
• Use a bristle brush to remove dirt from the couch. Give special attention to the headrest and armrest as they are usually the dirtiest.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery brush to get rid of dust, food particles, dirt, and pet hair from the couch or the carpet. Vacuum the bottom to remove dirt. If possible, remove the cushions so you can run the vacuum machine from hidden places.

Step 3 – Test Solution Before Application – Always test any solution you use on separate linen. Since no solutions are completely safe, test them before applying them on your expensive couch.

Step 4 – Remove Particles Using Vacuum Cleaner – Carefully vacuum the stained part and its surrounding areas. Be gentle to avoid tearing it when cleaning. 

Step 5 – Make Use of Dishwashing Liquid – Pour one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid into a bucket of warm water once all dirt and debris have been removed. 

Step 6 – Upholstery Cleaning – Add dishwashing solution to the upholstery brush. Use a towel to remove any excess water from the brush. Do not soak the entire fabric during the process.

Step 7 – Dry Clean the Upholstery – Leave the upholstery to dry completely and repeat the process, if needed.

There are multiple, best upholstery cleaners available in the market that you can buy, but they are expensive. However, they can help you remove the stain from upholstery when they happen. 

Additional Upholstery Cleaning Tips

Treating spots earlier increases the chances of getting rid of the stains completely. You can remove a stain by blotting it with a microfiber cloth. 

There are several other cleaning techniques. Here are some additional tips –

• General Stain Removal – Use a clean white cloth to dab on the stain gently. Use a little vinegar on the spot, leave for 15 minutes and blot with clean water.
• Coffee Stain – Mix water and vinegar and blot the stain using small quantities.
• Oil Stains – Sprinkle some salt on the affected area and then dab with soap and water.
• Crayon Stains – Dab using non-gel toothpaste and rinse using clean water. 
• Blood Stains – Blot the blood stain using hydrogen peroxide and rinse with water.
• Wine Stains – Sprinkle stain with salt and blot using hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice. Rinse by blotting with water.

Why Should You Avoid DIY Upholstery Cleaning?

If you do not maintain routine cleaning of your upholstery, we recommend not cleaning them on your own. You can risk damaging your upholstery and furniture. 

Request for professional cleaning services to ensure you maintain your upholstery in top condition and prevent any issues from occurring.

If you do not have the time to clean your upholstery, consider hiring a cleaning company. Professionals have specialized knowledge, upholstery cleaning machines, and the best upholstery cleaners to get the work done efficiently and quickly.