July 19, 2018 by Mulberry Maids
Upholstered furniture can be very comfortable and add great style to a home space. It is important to understand your furnitures fabric, and any specifics for caring for it. For general cleaning of your upholstered furniture, start out with the following tips.
Vacuuming
Regular vacuuming of your furniture is one of the best ways to keep your furniture clean and well maintained. Make sure to do this even more frequently if you have pets, to help keep the pet hair from building up, and to keep dirt, grime, and allergens at bay.
Make sure to check for loose buttons or zippers, and stray threads, as vacuuming over these may tear the fabric. Make sure to use a soft attachment that is gentle on the furniture.
Spills and Stains
Spills and stains are inevitable, but should be treated as soon as possible. Start out by blotting the stain with a paper towel or cloth rag, and make sure to not rub the stain. Before trying any stain removal method, read any special instructions with your furniture, and test it in an inconspicuous spot to make sure there is no damage or discoloration.
Avoid Sunlight and Pollutants
Direct sunlight is tough on upholstered furniture, and causes damage to the fabric. Sunlight can break down the fibers and cause color fading. Try to position your upholstered furniture out of direct sunlight to protect it. Similar to the sunlight, pollutants such as fumes from cooking or splattered grease will damage your furniture. Upholstered furniture can absorb odors as well, so trying to keep your home well ventilated will help with keeping your home smelling fresh.
Turn the Cushions
One very easy maintenance step is to turn and fluff your cushions periodically. One helpful way to remember is to turn them every time you vacuum. Turning the cushions will allow them to wear more evenly, and will also allow you to vacuum more deeply, and not just the surface.