Whether it's a velvet armchair, a leather recliner or a fabric sofa, upholstered furniture bring a hint of comfort and sophistication to any living space. However, over time, they can accumulate dust, stains and odours; therefore, they need to be cleaned regularly to preserve their looks and lifespan. If you neglect cleaning them, these furniture pieces may face discolouration, fabric deterioration and even create potential health issues (via dust mites and allergen accumulation) for the people using them. Fortunately, maintaining these types of furniture is relatively simple; with a few simple techniques, your upholstered will remain fresh and inviting for years to come.
This article explores some of the best ways to clean upholstered furniture, covering various techniques suited for different materials. Be it regular upkeep, deep cleaning or stain removal, each method will ensure you get the best outcomes. If you are preparing for cheap end of lease cleaning in Sydney or are looking for tips to maintain a cleaner home, these steps will help achieve the desired results.
1. Regular Vacuuming to Remove Surface Dirt
Vacuuming is the first step when it comes to upholstery cleaning. This step helps remove most of the dust, pet hair and food crumbs from the furniture’s surface. It’s recommended that you vacuum your upholstery at least once a week (focusing on the crevices and under cushions), and when you do so, use the upholstery attachment of the vacuum cleaner to ensure a gentle but thorough clean. This prevents dirt and debris from getting embedded into the fabric's fibres.
For homes with pets, use a HEPA Filter vacuum to capture the allergens more effectively. When performing end of lease cleaning in Sydney this step is essential as landlords and real estate agents often inspect the upholstery for cleanliness before returning the bond deposit.
2. Choosing the Right Cleaning Solution for Your Upholstery
Different upholstery fabrics require different cleaning solutions to prevent damage from occurring. Before you go ahead and apply any cleaner, check the furniture’s care tag for instructions. Most of the upholstery will be labelled with tags, like W (water-based cleaners only), S (solvent-based cleaners only) WS (both water and solvent-based cleaners can be used) and X (only vacuuming or professional cleaning is recommended).
For fabric upholstery, a mild detergent mixed with warm water should work well for routine cleaning. In case of leather furniture, use specialised leather cleaners and conditioners to maintain its suppleness. Always perform a spot test on an inconspicuous area before applying any cleaning solution to the entire surface.
3. Tackling Stains Immediately
Prompt action is crucial when dealing with stains on upholstered furniture. Blotting (no rubbing!) a spill with a clean cloth will help absorb the excess liquid without spreading the stain further and depending on the type of stain, the cleaning methods will differ. Mix some mild dish soap with water to clean coffee or tea stains; for grease stains baking soda works well in absorbing the oil before vacuuming; if red wine has stained your fabric, blot it with white vinegar and water to lift the stain. For ink stains, rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball can help break down the ink.
If the stain you’re dealing with is more persistent, a professional upholstery cleaning service may be necessary, especially during end of lease cleaning Sydney, when thorough cleaning is required before vacating a property.
4. Steam Cleaning for a Deep clean
Steam cleaning is an effective way to deep clean upholstered furniture. It uses the power of hot steam to loosen the dirt, kill bacteria and remove embedded dirt or grime without the need for any harsh chemicals. Most professional cleaning services offer steam cleaning as part of their packages, but for home-use, the handheld steam cleaners that you get in the market are also effective.
Before you steam clean, vacuum the furniture thoroughly to remove any loose debris. Then, use the steam cleaner in even strokes, ensuring the fabric does not become overly saturated. Allow the furniture to dry completely before using it again.
5. Removing Odours
As time passes, upholstered furniture can absorb a lot of odours from pets, food and cigarette smoke. To keep your furniture smelling fresh, sprinkle some baking soda over the fabric and let it sit there for around 15-20 minutes before vacuuming it away. This will neutralise the odours without damaging the upholstery.
For more persistent odours, a fabric-safe deodoriser can be used. Alternatively, you can place a bowl of white vinegar near the furniture and leave it overnight to absorb all the unwanted odours. Regular deodorising is especially useful when moving out, as odour-free upholstery contributes to a successful end of lease cleaning Sydney inspection.
6. Hiring Professional Upholstery Cleaners
While DIY methods are effective, professional upholstery cleaning can help you extend your furniture’s lifespan by giving it a deeper clean. Professionals use advanced techniques like hot water extraction, dry cleaning and deep stain treatments and products to restore the upholstery to its original condition.
Hiring a professional for cleaning is particularly useful for cleaning delicate fabrics, large furniture pieces or heavily stained /soiled upholstery. This will ensure you’re in compliance of the lease agreement before vacating the property.
The Best Way to Clean Upholstered Furniture
Wrapping Up
Consistency is important when it comes to maintaining the cleanliness and visual appeal of your upholstery. By following the tips and insights shared above, you can ensure that your furniture remains in hygienic conditions for longer and you can enjoy the comfort and style they provide for years to come. Happy Cleaning!