Too many people learn the hard way just how sensitive their upholstery furniture is and in the hopes of cleaning it, they end up ruining it. It is important to learn the “Do's” and "Don'ts” when cleaning your home upholstery. There are various materials used for upholstery and it is important to learn how to take care of upholstery properly before you end up ruining your expensive furniture. Ameribest Carpet Cleaning will share the Do’s and Don’ts of upholstery cleaning to help you maintain and preserve your upholstery.
Always Test Spot Cleaners – It is recommended that you keep a spot stain remover on hand. You always want to be able to clean a stain as soon as it occurs. However, you will want to test your spot cleaner first. Typically, you’ll want to test on the back side or in a discreet area. Use your cleaner in a very small area and see if the cleaner has any negative effects. Sometimes the cleaner can discolor or fade the material or even thin it out. Always test before you use it to know it is safe and won't damage your upholstery.
Act Fast – It is much easier to remove a stain as soon as it occurs. The longer the stain soaks into the fabric and the padding the harder it will be to remove the stain.
Read The Upholstery Cleaning Instructions – Make sure to read how to properly clean the upholstery. Again each fabric will vary on how it is supposed to be cleaned. Follow the proper cleaning method and don't vary from it.
Vacuum First – To maintain clean upholstery it is recommended that you regularly vacuum the surface. Additionally, before you deep clean your upholstery always vacuum the furniture thoroughly first.
Scrubbing a Stain - Whether deep cleaning or spot cleaning your fabric, never scrub. Always use a blotting motion instead. If you scrub you can either cause the upholstery to bald in the area or spread the stain further. When cleaning upholstery always blot at stains.
Never Use Bleach – It is well understood never to use bleach on carpet and upholstery. Not just because bleach will cause the color to fade, it will destroy the fabric. If bleach isn't completely rinsed out of the fabric the bleach will eat away and cause holes. In general, never use harsh chemicals on upholstery.
Don't Use Heat to Clean Couches – In most cases hot water or heat on stains can make the stain bond to the fabric which is why it is usually instructed to use cold water to remove stains on upholstery. Never use warm water unless instructed.
Don't Use Tap Water – Never use tap water when rinsing or diluting an upholstery cleaner. Tap water contains minerals that leave behind white ring stains where you cleaned. Instead, always use distilled water to prevent white ring stains.
It is recommended that you vacuum and clean all stains as they occur. Use a professional when it’s time to deep clean upholstery. When using a professional upholstery cleaner, keep in mind they have the best tools and knowledge for the job. To help restore and preserve your home's upholstery, contact Ameribest Carpet Cleaning today.