How to Clean Upholstery

TOP TIP:  Cleaning will vary according to the stain and fabric – some may require professional cleaning.

THE POWER OF A VACUUM

If your furniture is looking tired and is in need of some TLC, you’ll be pleased to know that a vacuum can work wonders. Before beginning the cleaning process vacuum over the furniture and cushions, using the machine’s attachments to get into each nook and cranny, to remove all elusive dirt and dust.

It is imperative that as soon as you see an unsightly fresh stain on your upholstery, to blot it with a clean white cloth. Blotting will prevent the stain from spreading and making a permanent mark on your prized furniture.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TAGS

When it comes to determining the cleaning product appropriate for your upholstery you will need to look at the care label ; this will, firstly, advise you of the type of material, which can vary from silk, cotton, wool and blends including synthetic fabrics. Lastly, it will advise you on the type of cleaning product to use through the use of symbols. These symbols can include:

• W: Water based detergents are required;
• S: Non-water based detergents are advised;
• WS: Either water or water free detergents can be used depending on the type of stain;
• X: Professional clean only.

TOP TIP: to protect the investment of antique or valuable upholstery we recommend that it is cleaned by a professional.

The best piece of advice we can offer you is to test a small amount of the fabric using both a water based and non-water based detergent, to see how it reacts. However, if you would rather not take the risk of dealing with the stain at home, call a professional in or take the coverings into a dry cleaner; they should be able to determine the fabric, stain and appropriate care.

The type of stain determines which cleaning product to use as much as the fabric does. Here are a couple of cleaning products recommended according to the stain and fabric type:

TOP TIP: When using a specialist product on your upholstery please follow the instructions closely.

If you are ever unsure of the appropriate products or care, call a professional and don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can learn from their skills and apply it to how you clean upholstery at home, which can be a more cost effective way of cleaning upholstery.