When doing some general upholstery cleaning, residents would do well to follow a few simple guidelines. Since upholstering furniture can be on the expensive side, residents of are apt to want to keep their furniture's upholstery in good working condition. For those who have upholstered furniture pieces (sofas, loveseats, loungers) and are ready to participate in a little upholstery cleaning, theses are cleaning tips that will save you not only money, but time shopping for new furniture.
At the end of upholstery cleaning, most residents are thrilled and surprised at how clean their furniture looks. Most residents aren't even aware just how dirty their furniture is - indeed, it's surprising how much dirt comes with a few people sitting on furniture. Older furniture can also benefit from a good upholstery cleaning rub-down.
Picking the appropriate cleaning method depends on not only on the material of which the furniture is made, but on what kind of furniture you plan to clean. An antique sofa does not get the same treatment as an overstuffed lounger.
Keeping your home clean and safe is important, and upholstery cleaning is an important aspect of housekeeping. Just picture every instance in which a family member has let a little food slide onto the couch, and all of the dirty feet and articles of clothing that have passed over the couch's fabric. Simple everyday wear and tear is another aspect residents must battle when it comes to upholstery cleaning. Remember when cleaning the furniture upholstery to think about the fabric in question. If you cannot identify the fabric, get into contact with your furniture's manufacturer.
Before you tackle any large stains on your furniture, test a sample of whatever solvent you have chosen on an unnoticeable part of
the couch (the back, the bottom, etc.), so you can ensure that discoloration won't occur.
Butter stains are a common problem on living room sofas and chairs, as it is a popular place to sit, watch movies, and eat popcorn (smothered in butter). Buttered popcorn is a highly dangerous culprit, and is best tackled with a dry solvent made for grease stains - an upholstery remedy that can be obtained from a local grocery store. Simply apply the solvent to a clean cloth and use the cloth to blot the grease stain. Never rub a stain. Then, after mixing a tablespoon of pH-balanced detergent with a cup of warm water, blot the stain with this mixture. Use a fresh towel to remove the detergent and the solvent, and allow the spot to dry.
Another oily problem is that of cheese stains. Since cheese is a common ingredient in the snacks eaten in the living room, in front of the television set, it is easy to see how such a thing could come into contact with your lovely sofa. To clear your upholstery of a cheese stain, simply mix a mild pH-balanced detergent with warm water and use a towel to blot the mixture onto the stain. Next, blot a mixture of one tablespoon of regular ammonia with one-half cup of water onto the spot. Finally, blot with water to remove any leftover solvent from the area. Make sure to let the spot dry.
While these tips may help, the best way still is to bring the upholstered furniture to a professional cleaner. Pick one that is in your area or choose a company that would offer home service so you wouldn't have to drive to Raleigh when you are residing in Charlotte.