The Complete Upholstery Cleaning Guide for Different Fabrics
Cleaning upholstered furniture and home items can get pretty daunting, considering each fabric has different integrity and fiber strength. People often clean their upholstery without knowing the proper cleaning techniques and which solutions to use. This negligence leads to over time weakening and damage in the upholstery fabric, even if it doesn’t show up instantly. That is why we have curated this upholstery cleaning guide, going into detail on how each fabric type should be treated. So without further ado, let’s get straight into it.
Natural Cotton & Linen
Cotton and linen are natural, breathable fibers that offer exceptional comfort for upholstered furniture. However, they lack durability and require special care. While these fabrics are soft, they can become a breeding ground for debris and stains if not maintained properly.
Regular Upholstery Cleaning
To keep your cotton and linen upholstery looking fresh, it’s essential to lightly clean it regularly. Gently dust the surface with a lint-free cloth or a soft duster and vacuum every one to two weeks. This thorough vacuuming helps eliminate dust, dirt, and pet hair, revealing a clean and hygienic surface. Neglecting this step can lead to wear and tear over time.
Spot Cleaning Stains
Stains can quickly set into cotton and linen because these fabrics are highly absorbent. If a spill occurs or you find an old stain, act promptly to prevent it from deepening. Start by blotting the spilled liquid with a dry cloth, then apply a mild stain remover. After removing the stain, wipe away soap residue and dab the damp area with a dry towel to dry completely.
Deep Cleaning
Thorough cleaning of your cotton and linen upholstery is crucial for eliminating embedded dirt, body oils, and allergens. Aim for deep cleaning once or twice a year, or more frequently if your furniture is in high-traffic areas or exposed to children and pets. Always check the fabric label to determine if machine washing is an option. You can also utilize efficient methods like steam upholstery cleaning every three to six months to refresh the appearance.
Microfiber Upholstery Cleaning
Microfiber is a synthetic material celebrated for its durability and is one of the most commonly used upholstery fabrics. It boasts a soft, suede-like surface while being resistant to most stains and spills. However, if not cleaned regularly, microfiber can accumulate dust and oils over time.
Daily Upholstery Cleaning
One of the advantages of microfiber is that it does not require frequent upholstery cleaning. Simply vacuum it with a soft brush attachment each week to remove dust, crumbs, and pet hair. This ease of maintenance is why microfiber is a popular choice for upholstered furniture, efficiently enduring everyday wear while maintaining its appearance and integrity.
Cleaning Stains
When tackling stains on microfiber, it’s important to note that it is sensitive to water. Always check the fabric cleaning code. “W” indicates compatibility with water-based cleaners, “S” with solvent-based cleaners, “WS” with both, and “X” indicates no liquids. Treat stains according to these instructions to avoid damaging the fabric. However, if the code indicates “X,” professional cleaning is the best option.
Thorough Cleaning
While deep cleaning is not a necessity for microfiber, it’s beneficial to do so every six to twelve months. This keeps your upholstered furniture free from dirt, oils, and allergens. For deep upholstery cleaning, steam cleaning is effective for removing embedded dirt and oils. Additionally, baking soda can be used to deodorize and tackle stubborn stains, providing a fresh and clean finish.
Leather Upholstery Cleaning
Leather is a luxurious upholstery fabric, but it requires care to preserve its beauty and longevity. Leather has a unique, sleek, and natural appearance, though it is sensitive to environmental factors such as weather and dust. It can dry out, crack, and stain. Here are some essential cleaning and care tips to keep your leather furniture looking its best.
Routine Upholstery Cleaning
To maintain your leather upholstery, the first step is to prevent dust accumulation. Regularly dust off your leather couches and accents using a microfiber cloth or a vacuum cleaner. For more thorough upholstery cleaning, dampen the cloth with distilled water and wipe down the surface to remove everyday dirt.
Treating Stains
Leather is generally resistant to deep stains, making immediate cleaning easier. However, it’s crucial to be cautious with the cleaning solutions and methods you use, as they can affect its appearance. For finished leather, a simple solution of soap and water works effectively. If you are dealing with unfinished leather types like suede, nubuck, or aniline, opt for a specialized cleaner designed for your specific leather type.
Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning of your leather upholstery is essential for preserving its sleek appearance. Use a leather cleaner to restore its natural sheen, applying it in small amounts to avoid excess. After cleaning, wipe away any residue with a dry, clean cloth. Moreover, don’t forget to condition and seal your leather items after cleaning to maintain their appeal and extend their lifespan.
Velvet Upholstery Cleaning
Velvet is another exquisite upholstery fabric, known for its softness and rich texture, but it lacks durability compared to leather. As a delicate fabric, velvet requires special care to prevent crushing, staining, and dust accumulation. Here’s how to keep your velvet furniture looking plush and vibrant.
Everyday Upholstery Cleaning
Due to its unique texture, velvet does not respond well to rough cleaning techniques. Avoid wet cleaning methods, as moisture can damage the fabric’s softness. Instead, gently vacuum your velvet items every few days to remove dust and dirt. You can also use a velvet brush to maintain the pile and prevent matting while cleaning.
Spot Cleaning Stains
Velvet absorbs liquids, making it vulnerable to stains from spills. To avoid permanent damage, it’s crucial to act fast with spot cleaning. Immediately blot spills with a dry cloth, avoiding any rubbing, which can spread the stain and damage the fabric nap. For oil-based stains, apply a powder like cornstarch or talcum powder to the area and let it sit for about 10 minutes before cleaning.
Deep Cleaning
Velvet upholstery requires periodic deep cleaning for maintaining its elegant appearance. A steam cleaner can help lift dirt while restoring the plush texture. For some velvet fabrics, dry cleaning solvents can be effective, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding. When deep cleaning, remember to avoid harsh scrubbing and excessive water use.
Polyester & Synthetic Blends
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, along with blends of acrylic, nylon, and olefin, are among the most popular choices for upholstery. These materials are preferred for their remarkable durability, stain resistance, and affordability. However, they still require regular upholstery cleaning and maintenance to prevent the accumulation of dirt, odors, and discoloration.
Regular Upholstery Cleaning
Cleaning polyester and other synthetic blends is straightforward and doesn’t demand much time or effort. You can use a duster to remove loose dirt from surfaces and cushions, ideally doing this daily or a few times a week, depending on usage and location. A handheld vacuum cleaner is also effective at lifting dirt, pet hair, and crumbs.
Spot Treating Stains
Before attempting to spot clean any stains on your polyester or synthetic fabric, check the care tag for cleaning instructions. Avoid bleach and harsh chemical cleaners, as these can lead to fading and discoloration. Additionally, limit your water usage to prevent water stains and trapped moisture, which can cause odors.
Deep Cleaning
Although deep cleaning polyester upholstery is not strictly necessary, it is advisable to do so once or twice a year. Opt for specialized fabric cleanser for deeper stains and if the care labels permit, you can opt for a gentle machine wash every four to five months. A steam cleaner can also be utilized to refresh the fabric and lift dirt.
Silk Upholstery Cleaning
Silk is a luxurious and opulent choice for furniture upholstery, but it comes with challenges. This delicate fabric is sensitive to sunlight, moisture, and friction, requiring meticulous care and specialized cleaning techniques. Regular and deep upholstery cleaning is essential to preserve its beauty and longevity.
Daily Upholstery Cleaning
While frequent vacuuming isn’t mandatory for silk upholstery, it is beneficial to lightly dust it with a soft cloth. Weekly vacuuming is recommended using the soft brush attachment and the lowest suction setting to prevent fabric damage. Avoid direct wet cleaning methods, as they can cause deep stains, and harsh chemicals can harm the fibers.
Stain Treatment
Cleaning stains on silk can be daunting since the fabric is easily damageable. Even minor spills can lead to discoloration and weakened fibers. Treat stains immediately with a silk-safe cleaning solution. Take a clean, dry cloth to lightly blot spills and soak up as much liquid as possible. For oil-based stains, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then brush it off gently.
Deep Cleaning
If you maintain a regular cleaning routine and address stains as they occur, deep cleaning your silk upholstery is manageable. To deep clean, choose a specialized silk upholstery cleaner and apply it sparingly with a microfiber cloth. Dry cleaning powder is also an option; it only requires a gentle vacuum for removal. If you find deep cleaning challenging, consider relying on professional dry cleaning services to ensure your silk remains pristine.
Wool Upholstery Cleaning
Wool is renowned for being expensive as it offers a perfect blend of warmth and comfort, along with remarkable durability. However, it’s important to note that wool is not resistant to dirt, stains, or water damage. While the fibers are naturally resilient, they do require proper care and maintenance to preserve their appearance and prevent deterioration.
Routine Upholstery Cleaning
Wool fibers are long-lasting yet more prone to accumulating dirt and dust than synthetic fabrics. To maintain your wool upholstered furniture, brush and dust it regularly. Always brush in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the fibers. While brushing helps maintain the surface, finer particles can still settle into the texture, so consider using a vacuum frequently.
Handling stains
Given wool’s absorbent nature, it’s crucial to act quickly when a spill occurs to prevent deeper penetration into the fibers. Use a clean, dry cloth to blot (never rub) the spill, absorbing moisture without pushing it further in. After absorbing as much liquid as possible, apply a wool-safe detergent mixed with water to the stained area. Once the stain has vanished, remember to remove residue, as moisture can lead to water marks and fiber distortions.
Deep Cleaning
The frequency of deep cleaning your wool upholstery depends on several factors, including daily usage, pets, and a dusty environment. For heavily used upholstered furniture, aim for a deep clean every 5-6 months. The safest and most effective method is professional dry cleaning. However, if your upholstery is labeled as washable, you can machine wash it with a delicate fabric detergent.
Chenille Upholstery Cleaning
Chenille is available in both natural and synthetic forms, with some variations blending both of them. This soft, velvet-like fabric is characterized by its plush texture, making it ideal for furniture and drapery. However, its luxurious feel comes with cleaning and maintenance challenges that require careful attention to keep it looking its best.
Everyday Upholstery Cleaning
Due to its raised pile, chenille is particularly susceptible to dust, dirt, pet hair, and other debris. For routine maintenance, gently dust the fabric and use a lint roller to clean the surface without compromising its nap. Periodically fluff your chenille upholstery to ensure it retains its texture and softness, preventing the fibers from flattening or matting. Vacuum with a soft brush attachment also works well.
Tackling Stains
Spot cleaning stains on chenille can be challenging due to its plush texture, as spills can saturate the fibers. To prevent permanent marks, act quickly by using a clean, dry cloth to absorb excess liquid. Once most of the moisture is gone, gently blot the stained area with a laundry detergent or dish soap solution. After the stain is lifted, rinse off any soap residue, then pat dry with a towel.
Deep Cleaning
Like other textured fabrics, chenille should be thoroughly cleaned every few months to maintain hygiene. The best approach for deep cleaning is often a professional upholstery service to prevent damage. If you prefer to clean it yourself, steamer can effectively lift dirt from the textures with the lowest heat setting. Avoid direct contact with the fabric to prevent moisture-related damage and preserve its integrity.
Tweed Upholstery Cleaning
Tweed is a classic upholstery fabric known for its rugged yet sophisticated appearance. Primarily made of wool, it features a tightly woven design that ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear. However, its textured surface can trap dust and debris, which may lead to allergies and respiratory issues. Therefore, proper upholstery cleaning and maintenance are essential.
Regular Cleaning
Cleaning tweed can seem daunting, especially for those with busy lifestyles. The dense weave of tweed tends to accumulate dust, hair, dirt, and lint, making frequent vacuuming necessary. Choose a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to prevent distortion of the fabric’s integrity. Moreover, keep a lint roller handy to swiftly eliminate lint, pet hair, and other fine debris from the surface.
Stain Cleaning
Removing stains from tweed requires careful attention, even with minor spills. Blot the liquid gently with a clean cloth as soon as possible. For most stains, a mild mixture of dish soap or fabric-safe detergent can be effective. For oily or greasy stains, sprinkle baking soda or talcum powder on the area for effective absorption.
Deep Upholstery Cleaning
After prolonged use, deep cleaning of tweed upholstery becomes essential. Accumulated debris can make stains more challenging to remove over time. Avoid excessive moisture or strong cleaners to prevent shrinkage, loosening, and mold. The safest method for deep cleaning your tweed upholstery is to seek professional dry cleaning services. Experts have the right equipment and solutions to ensure your fabric stays intact.
Decorative Upholstery Cleaning
Beyond tweed, intricate decorative fabrics like jacquard, brocade, damask, or brocatelle present cleaning challenges. These fabrics are often made from a blend of silk, cotton, wool, and polyester that is woven. Most of these decorative upholstery fabrics have detailed woven patterns that can trap dust and debris.
Daily Cleaning
To maintain these fabrics’ beauty, regular upholstery cleaning is essential. Using a lint roller helps to remove surface dirt without damaging the fabric. Gently brush the surfaces of upholstered furniture to remove loose dirt while preserving intricate textures. Weekly vacuuming will help maintain hygiene and prevent buildup.
Stain Upholstery Cleaning
Spotting and removing stains from fabrics like jacquard, brocade, and damask can be tricky due to their delicate nature. Act quickly when a spill occurs to prevent stains from setting. Prepare a mild solution of dish soap or wool detergent and use a clean cloth to gently wipe the stain. Don’t rub too harshly as it damages the fabric.
Thorough Cleaning
Regular maintenance can minimize the need for deep cleaning of decorative upholstery. For thorough and safe cleaning, consider hiring a professional service that specializes in these delicate fabrics. This way, you can maintain their beauty and longevity with proper care and attention.
Faux Leather (Vinyl, PU, Pleather)
Faux leather, including materials like vinyl, PU, and pleather, offers an excellent alternative to genuine leather. These engineered fabrics beautifully mimic the charm and durability of real leather but come at a significantly lower cost. Their superior resistance to stains and spills makes them ideal for daily upholstered furniture.
Routine Cleaning
Cleaning faux leather is straightforward compared to cleaning genuine leather, but it’s important to avoid moisture and dryness-related damage. Alternate between dry and damp cloths daily to keep the upholstery free from dust, pet hair, and allergens. If dust has settled on the furniture for an extended period, prepare a soapy water solution to wipe surfaces.
Stain Cleaning
Although faux leather is not immediately absorbent, it is still crucial to address spills. Start by gently blotting the area to absorb as much liquid as possible without rubbing the stain further in. For deep and old stains caused by ink or oil, consider using a faux leather cleaner or diluted rubbing alcohol. Always test your solution on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any adverse reactions.
Deep Upholstery Cleaning
While faux leather is more durable and stain-resistant than real leather, it needs deep cleaning at least once a year. The best method is steam cleaning, especially for fabrics like PU, vinyl, and pleather. If your furniture has accumulated deep-seated dirt or grime over time, steam cleaning can effectively refresh it.
Rayon and Viscose
Rayon and viscose are semi-synthetic fabrics made from a blend of fibers, usually derived from cotton or wool pulp. Both fabrics are favored for upholstery due to their sheen, drapery, and luxurious feel. While their appearance is appealing, cleaning them is a hassle as they are prone to various kinds of damage.
Everyday Cleaning
The smooth surfaces of rayon and viscose are susceptible to dust and dirt. This can lead to a buildup of grime if not regularly addressed. To prevent this, use a soft brush attachment on your vacuum to gently remove debris. If frequent vacuuming isn’t practical, a lint roller is an efficient tool for capturing pet hair and smaller particles.
Stain Upholstery Cleaning
Like any upholstery, rayon and viscose can have spills and stains. Immediate action is key to preventing permanent damage: blot spills right away with a clean, dry cloth or paper towel without rubbing the area. After blotting, use a mild cleaner to tackle any remaining stains. If you don’t have a dedicated upholstery stain cleaner, mix a small amount of delicate fabric detergent with lukewarm water.
Deep Cleaning
The frequency with which you deep-clean rayon and viscose upholstery largely depends on usage. For regularly used upholstered furniture, deep cleaning every 3 to 6 months is advisable, while for occasional or formal pieces, a yearly cleaning is enough. Because rayon and viscose can easily lose their shape or shrink, it’s important to use careful solutions and techniques. Avoid methods that involve excessive water and stay away from steam cleaning until necessary.
