Does the idea of cleaning furniture in your home seem overwhelming? Here is a quick guide to get you started on freshening up those pieces in your living room and bedrooms:
Begin by Vacuuming
Removing dirt and dust from upholstery is the first step to getting your furniture clean. Vacuum cleaners typically come with an upholstery attachment that has soft bristles to avoid damaging fabrics. Start at the top of the upholstery and work your way down, moving left to right. This is especially useful for tricky fabrics such as velvet, which can quickly trap dirt. More delicate fabrics need to be cleaned with a low-suction setting. You can also use the crevice attachment to grab any little bits that may have squeezed between the cracks.
Treat Spots
Areas that have visible dirt and stains need spot cleaning after vacuuming has been taken care of. Vinegar and a soft, microfiber cloth will typically take care of minor spots.
If you prefer to make your own upholstery cleaner over purchasing one, you can add a teaspoon of dish soap to a small bowl of warm water. Use a small hand mixer to blend it into a whipped formula. Take a soft bristle brush, such as a toothbrush, and gently rub the spot until you see the dirt lift away. Depending on how deep the stain is, you may need to repeat the process.
Clean All Areas
Once you have treated the small spots, you can use your soap mixture again for a general all-over wash. Take a plastic spatula or soft brush and gently clean the entire piece and wipe away leftover residue with a damp cloth. You want to be sure not to get your upholstery too wet during this step.
Leave Everything to Dry
Upholstery that hasn’t been given the proper amount of time to dry can cause mildew and subsequent odor throughout the home. Let the furniture dry naturally by opening windows to allow a breeze in.
These are some DIY tips to help you get started in your upholstery cleaning process. Higher-end pieces or those with the most delicate fabrics may need professional assistance, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a cleaning service if you are too nervous to handle it alone.
