Every once in a while accidents happen that we don’t expect, and oftentimes it causes undesirable effects on our furniture and upholstery. Certain spills may cause unsightly stains or dirt build-up that requires cleaning. If you are in need of serious upholstery cleaning but don’t know where to start, you have come to the right place as I give you some tips on how to clean those dirt and stains from your upholstery.
Experts agree that the best thing to do once an upholstery accident happens is to try and get it off as quickly as possible. Cleaning the stain right away increases your chances of getting it out completely and easily as compared to when the stain has already dried and settled in your upholstery. Dabbing a piece of damp cloth to the stained area is a good start. Do not get too much water in your upholstery as this may cause more harm than good. Also, it would be a good idea not to do anything if your upholstery says ‘dry-clean only’ as trying to get the stain out yourself may ruin the design and look of your upholstery.
For upholstery made of fabric prepare a 1/4 cup of dishwashing soap mixed with 1 cup of warm water. Whip the ingredients with an eggbeater. Continue whipping until the foam looks like whip cream. Test the mixture’s reaction to your upholstery by placing a small amount in an unseen portion of your upholstery. If the color of the fabric fades or if it discolors or shrinks, then you know you need to call a professional. Otherwise you can continue cleaning. Rub the mixture to the upholstery using cloth. The stains and dirt will appear as the mixture works. Scrap off the suds as dirt appears. Rinse your upholstery by dabbing it with a damp cloth. Allow the fabric to dry over night with an electric fan.
For upholstery made of leather, you can also use the dishwashing liquid and warm water solution. However, avoid using detergents. You may also use pure soap following the steps enumerated above but using soft bristles for scrubbing before rinsing with damp cloth. For added moisture and sheen in your leather, try putting conditioner occasionally.
For upholstery made of vinyl, you can also use the dishwashing soap and warm water or you can buy a cleaning agent especially for cleaning vinyl-made upholstery. For best results it is recommended to use baking soda placed on a cloth followed by the dishwashing liquid. Do not use oil in cleaning upholstery.
To prevent much dirt build-up, it is recommended that you perform monthly cleaning of your upholstery and carpets. Try vacuuming them and cleaning with dishwashing liquid and warm water. This way you get to clean your upholstery and make it look like it’s brand new again.
Having to clean your upholstery monthly may seem to be a drag but this is the best way to maintain your upholstery in top shape. I hope I enlightened you on how to clean your upholstery and remove dirt and stains.
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