Upholstery Care

Furniture is an important aspect of any home. Not only does it require an often substantial investment it is also able to set the tone for décor while providing comfort for family and visitors. Caring for it will not only prolong its life but also keeps it looking great.

Environmental threats that can affect upholstery
It is a fact that upholstery cleaning should fit into your weekly cleaning schedule. While we dust, mop and vacuum we tend to forget chairs and sofas. It isn’t difficult and often requires a simple vacuuming or dusting. In reality upholstery furniture should be vacuumed at least twice a week. This prevents dust getting into the fabric which over time can result in damage. Dust particles create friction much as a knife does and this can cut the threads and weaken the structure.

Most vacuum cleaners are fitted with upholstery attachments. Brush the vacuum over the fabric carefully so as to not snag the fabric. Remove the cushions and vacuum into all the crevices.

Apart from vacuuming, attention should be paid to arm rests, cushions, pillows and back rests. These areas have a tendency to stain or mark and should be treated immediately. There are ways to help prevent this. Many suppliers will offer a scotch guard or fabric protector. This is a process that can be reapplied after a certain time period and is especially useful with fabrics such as suede.

Rotating cushions will also prolong the life of your upholstery. Certain areas tend to be used more than others, rotating those cushions that are most used will ensure that they wear evenly, maintain their looks, and protect their shape.

Upholstery is susceptible to sun damage or bleaching and fading and for this reason should be placed in an area away from the sun. If this is not possible then it is prudent that you invest in window treatments that will prevent this from happening. Fabric also needs airing on a regular basis as it tends to retain odours.

Cleaning and maintaining upholstery
As with most things, prevention is better than cure. If possible abstain from eating or drinking on your furniture and keep from putting dirty feet on it. The majority of stains are a result of eating and drinking. Cleaning upholstery presents its own set of problems. The first thing that needs to be considered is the type of fabric and the color composition. Fabrics are treated to a range of different color chemicals which dictates how they should be cleaned. Check with the manufacture or supplier before you apply any cleaning solution. If this information is not forthcoming, you should be safe using a mild soapy solution. However many fabrics bleed or run when exposed to moisture. Test a small area first.

Place the solution into a spray bottle and apply it to the stain or dirty area. Refrain from using brushes or sponges. Instead blot the area with a clean cloth. A white cloth is advisable as it will show you whether the solution is working or not. Once the stain has been removed use a new clean cloth to blot the area dry. Do not use a blow dryer. If you cannot leave the stain to dry naturally for a day or two, cover it with another clean cloth as this will capture any leftover moisture while preventing any new dirt from adhering to it.

Curtains, blinds and covers
Upholstery is not only relegated to furniture. Most curtains or blinds are constructed from upholstery-grade fabrics. In order to prevent dust build-up they should also be vacuumed on a regular basis. They should be taken down and professionally cleaned at least once every three years. Dust and pollution contribute negatively to their longevity and good looks unless they are well cared for.

Where loose covers are not labelled as washable they should be dry cleaned. It is possible to wash 100% cotton fabrics in a lukewarm soapy solution. They should not be rubbed however, and gently squeezed dry. Then laid flat out of direct sunlight and ironed on a very low heat. In this manner they will retain their usability for many years.

Upholstery wall coverings should be vacuumed twice a year. Cover the vacuum attachment with a piece of muslin and concentrate on corners and folds. Once every five years they should be taken down and professionally cleaned.


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