Maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of your upholstered furniture is essential for a welcoming home environment. Upholstery cleaning plays a crucial role in prolonging the life of your furniture and ensuring it remains free from dirt, stains, and allergens.
However, it’s important to follow expert recommendations for upholstery cleaning to improve cleaning methods and avoid adverse effects. This blog will briefly examine some dos and don’ts of upholstery cleaning to guide you toward achieving professional-level cleanliness and care in your own home.
Dos Of Upholstery Cleaning
⇒ Understand Manufacturer’s Instructions
Always refer to the furniture’s care label. It provides essential guidance on suitable cleaning methods and solutions, ensuring you don’t inadvertently damage the fabric or void warranties.
Below are some codes for your reference!
- W: Suitable for cleaning with water-based cleaners.
- W/S: Can be cleaned with both water and dry-solvent-based cleaners.
- X: Neither water nor dry-solvent-based cleaners should be used.
- S: Only dry-solvent-based cleaners are permitted; avoid using water-based cleaners.
⇒ Quickly Address The Spills
Immediate blotting of spills prevents them from setting into the fabric. Use a clean, absorbent cloth to gently dab the spill, minimizing the risk of permanent staining.
⇒ Vacuum Regularly
Vacuum the upholstery regularly with an upholstery attachment to remove loose dust, dirt, and allergens, maintaining the fabric’s cleanliness and extending its lifespan by preventing abrasive particles from wearing it down.
⇒ Test Cleaning Solution Before Applying
Apply a small amount of the solution to an unseen area of the upholstery first. This ensures the solution won’t damage or discolor the fabric, avoiding potential costly mistakes.
Don’ts Of Upholstery Cleaning
⇒ Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners
Harsh chemicals can weaken upholstery fabric fibers, cause discoloration, and leave residues that attract more dirt. Stick to cleaners recommended for your upholstery type.
⇒ Avoid Rubbing Stains
Rubbing can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fabric. Always blot stains gently to lift them from the surface without spreading.
⇒ Never Clean A Stain From The Centre
Cleaning from the center outward can cause the stain to spread. Instead, work from the edges inward to contain and lift the stain effectively.
⇒ Don’t Use Heat To Dry Upholstery
Heat can shrink or damage upholstery fabrics. Allow the cleaned area to air dry naturally to maintain the fabric’s integrity and appearance.
When To Opt For Professional Upholstery Cleaning Service?
By following the outlined dos and don’ts of upholstery cleaning, you can effectively care for your upholstery, ensuring it remains free from dirt, stains, and damage. Understanding manufacturer’s instructions, addressing spills promptly, and using appropriate cleaning methods are crucial steps in this process. Avoiding harsh chemicals, not rubbing stains, and steering clear of heat for drying will help preserve the fabric’s integrity.
However, if you don’t want to take a chance on any mistake, calling a professional upholstery cleaning service is a good choice. At Los Angeles Carpet Cleaners, we have experts working on your upholstery cleaning with utmost care and precision, keeping your furniture clean and safe.
FAQs
Q.1 What are the cleaning instructions for upholstery?
⇒ Cleaning instructions vary by fabric type. Always check the manufacturer’s care label for guidance. Regularly vacuum, spot clean with appropriate solutions, and hire professional upholstery cleaning for tough stains or annual deep cleaning.
Q.2 What is good for cleaning upholstery?
⇒ Water-based cleaners are suitable for many fabrics (W), while some must use dry-solvent-based cleaners (S). Always test cleaners in a hidden area first and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.
Q.3 How to use an upholstery cleaner?
⇒ Vacuum the surface first, apply the cleaner to a small, hidden area to test before applying it to the stained area. Use a soft brush or cloth to work it in, and blot away excess moisture. Allow to air dry.
Q.4 How to remove upholstery stains?
⇒ Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth, working from the edges inward. Use a suitable cleaner for the fabric type and blot again. Avoid rubbing and allow the area to air dry completely.
