It’s great to curl up with your family, dog and a bowl full of chips after a long day. Upholstered furniture is the most used seating in the house and can collect stains, fur from pets, food crumbs, and pet hair faster than you can binge watch your favorite TV show. Follow these steps to make your ottoman, armchair and couch look brand new.
Here are some things to consider when you hire a professional upholstery cleaner
Get to know your upholstery
You can’t simply wash your furniture fabric like bedding.
Most upholstered furniture has a tag under the cushions or at the bottom of its sofa. It is possible to find the manufacturing information online and get washing instructions if you can’t locate it.
Online instructions or tags will indicate one of the following four categories.
- W: Your upholstery can be washed with water
- S: Use water-free, dry cleaning products and steam cleaners
- WS/SW. Both solvent-based and water-based dry-cleaning products can be used. However, you might want to test your first method in a discreet area in order to ensure safety.
- X: Contact a professional upholstery cleaner instead of going DIY.
Asya Biddle is an Angi Expert Review Board member, manager at The Dust Busters janitorial service in Williamsport, PA. She says that professional carpet cleaners are recommended for all carpet types. Professionals will also know the best ways to clean different stain types. They can remove dirt and debris more effectively.
Get started with the vacuum
Your upholstered furniture can be compared to cleaning your floor. You will need to get rid of all the dry, loose bits before you can use soap and water.
Attach the nozzle attachments to furniture and other hard-to reach places to your vacuum’s arm. Make sure you vacuum the underside of the cushions, the backrest and the base of your sofa.
For particularly fuzzy animals in your home, you may need to use a lint roller or fur brush.
Simple Stains are the best
Two things are essential to clean stains: the cause of the stain and the fabric used. The water-based DIY remedies we have listed below are great for general dirt and food stains. These can be used for pet or baby accidents.
Always make sure to check the instructions on your upholstery tags. Next, gather the following supplies for fabric and synthetic material:
- Empty spray bottle
- White vinegar
- Dish soap
- Soft microfiber cloth, sponge
In a small container, combine one teaspoon dish soap, three tablespoons warm water, and one teaspoon vinegar. To ensure that the dye doesn’t fade, spray the fabric in an area not visible.
Apply the mixture to the stain. Clean the area gently by working in small circles. To rinse the soap, use a clean towel and warm water. Allow the spot to air dry before you do another round.
Mix one part olive oil with two parts white vinegar to make leather chairs and couches. Follow the same steps as above.
Clean your furniture upholstery will cost you between $10-$300
Deep Cleans: Rent a Steamer
You may need to rent or purchase a furniture steamer if your sofa is showing signs of wear and stains. A steam cleaner can be rented for as low as $35 per day, or you can buy one for between $100 and $150 depending on the size of your sofa. This may seem expensive, but professional upholstery cleaning in sydney can cost up to $300.
Once you have checked your upholstery requirements and removed any debris, prepare your steamer for use. Set aside pillows and loose cushions to dry. Moving on to the couch’s body, move in straight lines with the grain of the fabric.
Tough Stains Pre-Treat
It may be necessary to pre-treat stains that are difficult depending on your upholstery fabric. To avoid getting the stain into your upholstery further, soak up any liquids immediately.
There are some household tricks that can be used to remove and then blot up stains such as grease, coffee, or blood. Here are some examples:
- Salt oil, grease, and red wine can be added to the surface. Before you do a deeper clean, wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply hydrogen peroxide to any areas that have been affected by red wine or blood. Then, clean the area with soap and water. Before applying the hydrogen peroxide to stain areas, make sure you check for hidden spots.
- For permanent marker stains, you can use the vinegar, water and dish soap method.
Take care of persistent odors
It might be more difficult to maintain odors if you have small children or pets who love to snuggle up on the pillows. Dust a thin layer with baking soda on your couch or chair between deep cleans. Allow it to absorb odors for several hours. Vacuum thoroughly the baking soda, and then repeat this process once per week or as often as you need.
Add a deep cleaning to your spring cleaning list if your upholstered furniture is neglected. Remember that professional upholstery cleaners are always available to help you before you even consider replacing your furniture.
