Fabric Maintenance Made Easy
Furniture fabric is an important aspect of any furniture piece that contributes to its comfort, style, and overall look. Whether it's a couch, chair, or ottoman, the fabric can be a defining characteristic of a piece of furniture and plays a key role in its durability and longevity. Regular maintenance and proper care can help to keep furniture fabric looking great and extend its life. In this article, we will provide tips and guidelines for maintaining and taking care of furniture fabric, so you can enjoy your furniture for years to come.
Spot clean spills immediately: Blot spills with a clean, white cloth to prevent staining.
Avoid direct sunlight: Keep furniture out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and sun damage.
Rotate cushions: Flip and rotate cushions regularly to ensure even wear.
Use a fabric protector: Apply a fabric protector to repel spills and stains.
Avoid sharp objects: Avoid placing sharp objects, such as pens or scissors, on the fabric, as they can cause tears and snags.
Keep it clean: Have your furniture professionally cleaned every 12 to 18 months, or as needed, to remove dirt and grime that has accumulated over time.
Avoid moisture: Keep furniture away from sources of moisture, such as windows and damp basements, to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Vacuum regularly: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dirt, dust, and pet hair from the fabric.
Wine Stains and More
Cleaning water-soluble stains from furniture fabric can be relatively easy with the right approach. Here's how you can clean them:
Blot the stain immediately: Use a clean, white cloth to blot the stain to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it and make it harder to remove.
Dilute the stain: Mix a solution of 1 part water to 1 part white vinegar or mild detergent, such as dish soap.
Apply the solution: Dampen a clean, white cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain. Avoid soaking the fabric, as this can cause water damage.
Blot with water: Rinse the area with clean water and blot it dry with a clean, white cloth.
Check for success: Repeat the steps if the stain is still present.
Air dry: Allow the area to air dry completely, away from heat sources. Do not use a hair dryer or place it near a heat source, as this can set the stain.
It's important to always test the cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first, to make sure it does not damage the fabric. If the stain remains, or if you are unsure about how to clean it, it is best to consult a professional cleaner.
Lipstick and More
Cleaning solvent-based stains, such as pen, lipstick, or nail polish, can be a bit more challenging than cleaning water-soluble stains. Here's how you can clean them:
Blot the stain immediately: Use a clean, white cloth to blot the stain to remove as much of the liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it and make it harder to remove.
Use a solvent: Choose a solvent that is safe for the type of fabric you're cleaning. For example, use rubbing alcohol for synthetic fabrics, and mineral spirits or dry-cleaning solution for natural fibers.
Apply the solvent: Dampen a clean, white cloth with the solvent and gently blot the stain. Avoid soaking the fabric, as this can cause damage.
Blot with water: Rinse the area with clean water and blot it dry with a clean, white cloth.
Check for success: Repeat the steps if the stain is still present.
Air dry: Allow the area to air dry completely, away from heat sources. Do not use a hair dryer or place it near a heat source, as this can set the stain.
It's important to always test the solvent in an inconspicuous area first, to make sure it does not damage the fabric. If the stain remains, or if you are unsure about how to clean it, it is best to consult a professional cleaner.
Vinyl Leather
To keep your faux leather furniture in top shape, it is recommended to use a solution of lukewarm water (up to 35°C or 95°F) mixed with a neutral soap for periodic maintenance. In case of any spills or stains, it's important to blot immediately with a dry cloth to prevent permanent damage. For specific stains, such as soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and cosmetics, removing as much residue as possible and cleaning with water and neutral soap should do the trick. For ink, oil, and grease, the use of perchloroethylene (dry cleaning fluid) is recommended. If necessary, use solvents but be sure to test their effects on the product first. Avoid using cleaners that contain muriatic or hydrochloric acid.