Upholstered furniture can be a great addition to any home, but it can also be a challenge to keep it clean. From spills and stains to dust and dirt, upholstered furniture requires regular maintenance to stay looking fresh and new.

In this article, we’ll provide valuable tips and a step-by-step guide on how to clean upholstered furniture that is easy to follow and will leave your furniture looking clean and tidy.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before you begin cleaning your upholstered furniture, it’s essential to check the care label. The label will provide you with the information you need to clean the upholstery, including the type of fabric and any cleaning instructions.

Different materials require different cleaning methods, and some fabrics can only be cleaned by a professional.

Check the furniture’s label for a cleaning code, which is usually a letter (W, S, WS, or X):

• W: Use water-based cleaning solutions.
• S: Use only solvent-based cleaners or dry-cleaning products without water.
• WS: You can use both water-based and solvent-based cleaners.
• X: Vacuum or brush only; no water or solvent-based cleaning solutions.

Follow the cleaning code’s guidance to avoid damaging your furniture.

Step 2: Vacuum the Upholstery

The next step is to vacuum your couch or sofa thoroughly. Be sure to vacuum every nook and cranny, including the cushions and crevices.

Use a soft-bristled attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt, debris, or dust.

This step will help remove loose dirt and debris before cleaning the upholstery.

Step 3: Spot Cleaning

If your upholstered furniture has any stains or spills, you should spot-clean it before doing a general cleaning. To do this:

• Use a clean white cloth and warm water to blot the stain.
• Do not rub the stain, as this will damage the fabric fibres.
• If the stain persists, repeat or use a mild detergent and water solution to remove it. 

To clean a stain naturally, you can use some common household items, such as vinegar, baking soda, or carbonated water.

• Vinegar [1] is a great cleaning agent that can help remove stains from synthetic upholstered furniture. Mix 1/2 cup white vinegar and 1 cup of warm water and spray the solution on the stain. Blot it gently until it disappears.
• Baking soda [2] is another natural solution to help remove stains and odours from upholstered furniture. Mix six tablespoons of baking with soda with ⅓ cup warm water to make a paste and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.
• Carbonated water [3] mix 1 cup of carbonated water with ½ cup of white vinegar and ½ tablespoon of natural dish soap in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the solution onto the stained area of the upholstery, allow it to dwell for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a brush or rag. Finally, rinse the area with plain water and allow it to air dry.

Make sure to always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the upholstery before applying it to the stain.

Dark upholstered materials can be especially tricky as some cleaning solutions may leave a mark or cause discolouration. 

For dark fabrics, it’s recommended to use a white cloth when testing in the corner to check and avoid any potential transfer of colour onto the textile. 

If you need help deciding which cleaning solution to use, it’s best to consult the care label or a professional upholstery cleaner for guidance.

Step 4: Deodorising

After spot cleaning, it’s time to deodorise the upholstery. Sprinkle baking soda over the upholstery and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. 

Baking soda is a natural deodoriser that can help absorb odours and leave your upholstery smelling fresh. Once the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum it up with your hoover cleaner.

Step 5: General Cleaning

After deodorising, it’s time to do a general cleaning. If you have a steam cleaner or a machine specifically designed for upholstered furniture, this would be an excellent time to use it. 

If you don’t have a steam cleaner or cleaning machine, you can still achieve good results using a commercial upholstery cleaner or making your solution. 

Mix warm water and mild detergent to make a cleaning solution, and dip a soft-bristled brush or a clean white cloth into the solution. Gently scrub the upholstery, working in small sections and avoiding getting the fabric too wet.

If you use a cleaning machine or steam cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Use the appropriate cleaning solution and adjust the settings to match the fabric type. Once you’ve cleaned the upholstery, use a clean cloth to remove any excess water or cleaning solution.

Whether using a machine or doing it by hand, remember to work in small sections and avoid over-saturating the fabric.

Step 6: Let it Dry

After cleaning your upholstered furniture, it’s important to let it dry completely before using it again. Damp upholstery can quickly develop mould and mildew, so it’s essential to take the time to let it dry thoroughly.

Sitting or lying on damp upholstery can cause the fabric to stretch or warp and leave unpleasant odours behind. It’s better to be patient and wait until the upholstery is completely dry before using it again.

You can speed up drying by using a fan or opening windows to allow air circulation. 

Placing a dehumidifier in the room can also help to remove excess moistness from the air, speeding up the drying process.

If you’re in a hurry, use a clean, dry towel to soak up any excess water or moisture from the upholstery. Simply press the towel onto the damp areas and repeat as necessary until no more water is absorbed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cleaning upholstered furniture may seem daunting, but it’s a simple process that can be done with the right tools and techniques. By following these step-by-step guides, you can help extend the life of your upholstered furniture and keep it looking fresh and new. 

Remember to always check the care label before cleaning, and avoid using harsh chemicals or rubbing the fabric too hard. You can keep your upholstered furniture looking great for years with a little effort.

Professional Upholstery Cleaning in Cork 

While it’s possible to clean upholstered furniture at home, sometimes a professional service is necessary to ensure your furniture is thoroughly cleaned and restored. If you’re looking for professional upholstery cleaning assistance in Cork, look no further than our team.

Our experienced and skilled professionals use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to deep clean and rejuvenate your furniture. Whether you need a one-time cleaning or regular maintenance, we’re here to help. 

Contact us today and experience the difference a professional upholstery cleaning can make. Your furniture will thank you!