How to Clean Upholstered Chairs?
Upholstered chairs are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can quickly accumulate dirt, stains, and odors if not properly maintained. As experts in eco-friendly cleaning, Seattle Green Maids understands the importance of keeping your upholstered furniture fresh and spotless. In this guide, we'll share our professional tips on how to clean upholstered chairs effectively and safely.
Understanding Your Chair's Fabric
But before you start reflecting on the cleaning techniques, identify what kind of material your upholstered chair has been made of. Different materials require different cleaning strategies:
Cotton and linen: Such natural fibers are generally strong but will shrink when exposed to excessive water.
Synthetic fabrics: While polyester and nylon are considerably more resistant to stains, they can be prone to heat.
Velvet and suede: These are very delicate fabrics, requiring special care and gentle cleaning methods.
Leather: Even though technically not upholstery, cleaning leather chairs requires some special methods.
Always check the manufacturer's care label for specific cleaning instructions and test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first.
Regular Maintenance: Vacuuming
The easiest, yet most efficient, way to keep your upholstered chairs clean is through regular vacuuming. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting too deep into the fibers of the fabric. Here's how to do it properly:
Use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
Vacuum the entire surface of the chair, including the back, seat, and arms.
Pay special attention to crevices and seams where dust tends to accumulate.
For stubborn debris, use a soft brush to loosen it before vacuuming.
It's best to vacuum upholstered chairs at least once a week, or more if the area's usage is heavy.
Dealing with Odors: The Baking Soda Method
Upholstered chairs can occasionally emit unpleasant scents. Baking soda is a natural and efficient remedy for this.
Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the entire chair.
For added freshness, mix a few drops of your favorite essential oil with the baking soda.
Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes, or overnight for stronger odors.
Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda.
This method not only eliminates odors but also helps absorb light stains and oils from the fabric.
Spot Cleaning Techniques
For small stains or spills, spot cleaning is often sufficient. Here's a general approach:
Blot (don't rub) any excess liquid immediately with a clean, white cloth.
Create a cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a small amount of mild dish soap or upholstery cleaner.
Using a clean cloth, gently dab the stained area with the solution.
Rinse the area by blotting with a cloth dampened with clean water.
Allow the spot to air dry completely.
You can use a specialized upholstery cleaner or a white vinegar-water solution in 1:3 proportions for deeper-set stains. Any cleaning solution should always be applied to a hidden area first.
Deep Cleaning Methods
Occasionally, your upholstered chairs may need a more thorough cleaning:
Steam Cleaning:
Rent or buy upholstery steam cleaning equipment.
Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.
Use distilled water to avoid building up minerals.
Allow the chair to dry completely before use.
Professional Cleaning:
Consider professional area rug cleaning services for delicate fabrics or heavily soiled chairs.
Professional cleaners have the equipment and skills to clean any upholstery.
Preventing Future Stains
To keep your upholstered chairs clean for longer:
Apply fabric protector sprays to create an invisibility barrier against spills or stains.
Throw on arm covers or throw in heavily used areas.
Try to clean spills and stains as soon as possible to keep them from setting.
Slipcovers may be considered for easy washing and protection.
Maintaining Different Fabric Types
Microfiber: Use rubbing alcohol for spot cleaning. Apply with a spray bottle and blot with a clean, white cloth.
Velvet: Brush gently with a soft-bristled brush to maintain the nap. For stains, use a mixture of lemon juice and baking soda.
Leather: Wipe with a damp cloth and use a leather conditioner periodically to prevent cracking.
Following the below cleaning tips from Seattle Green Maids, you will be well on your way to keeping any upholstered chairs clean and fresh over time. The key to keeping upholstery looking great for years is not only consistent care but also addressing those spills and stains right away. If you're overwhelmed or need professional help, never hesitate to reach out. Seattle Green Maids is here to help with the best in expert, eco-friendly cleaning solutions.
