Cleaning furniture is a necessary part of maintaining a clean home. But, if you’re not careful enough, upholstery cleaning can go wrong quickly. Here are 7 common mistakes people make when attempting to clean their furniture.
Mistake #1: Using the wrong cleaning solution.
All upholstery is not created equal. It also comes in different materials, designs, and colors, which also need specific cleaning solutions and methods. That said, it is essential to use the right products and solutions for your particular type of fabric. If you’re unsure what product to use, check the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a professional upholstery cleaner like Monster Steamer Carpet Cleaning.
Mistake 2: Not doing a pre-test on a hidden area first.
Before applying any cleaning solution or cleaning method, do a small test patch on an area of the furniture that isn’t visible. This will help you determine if the cleaning solution is too strong or not strong enough for your fabric type.
When doing patch tests, watch out for discoloration, fading, and signs of damage.
Mistake #3: Not vacuuming first.
Before applying the cleaner, make sure to vacuum the area first using a brush attachment. Once you’ve vacuumed the area, use a soft cloth to blot the dirt and debris. Additionally, when choosing a vacuum for upholstery cleaning, use a low suction setting. This will allow you to get deep into the fibers without causing damage.
Mistake #4: Not removing excess moisture
Make sure all of the cleaning solutions is thoroughly removed from the upholstery. If there is an excessive amount of water left on the fabric, it can cause mold and mildew growth.
Mistake #5: Not rinsing thoroughly.
After you’ve applied the cleaning solution, make sure to rinse it off thoroughly with a damp cloth. Any residue left behind can cause the fabric to become discolored or attract more dirt and dust.
Mistake #6: Rubbing too hard
When cleaning the fabric, be gentle. Aggressive scrubbing or rubbing can cause permanent damage to the fibers of the fabric. Here are some steps you can follow when rubbing upholstery material:
- Apply a small cleaning solution to the fabric and gently, circularly wipe.
- After that, use a blotting technique with a damp cloth or sponge to remove any remaining dirt.
- Finally, allow the fabric to air dry naturally. Do not apply heat or direct sunlight as this can damage the fibers.
Mistake #7: Not following up with a protectant.
Once you’ve cleaned and dried your furniture, use a fabric protector to help prolong its life. Fabric protectors help provide a protective coating that makes it more difficult for dirt and stains to penetrate the fabric.
Tips for Keeping Upholstery Fresh and Well-Maintained
As a bonus for making it through this list of upholstery cleaning mistakes, here are a few tips to help you keep your furniture looking fresh and well-maintained:
- Vacuum regularly with an attachment specifically designed for upholstery. This will remove any dirt or debris accumulated in the fabric.
- Apply a protective coating once or twice a year to help protect it from dirt and stains.
- Keep upholstery clean by regularly spot-cleaning any spills or messes that occur.
Following these tips, you can keep your furniture looking its best for years.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure that your upholstery looks its best and lasts for years. Contact a professional cleaner if you’re still having trouble cleaning your furniture. If you live in San Diego, CA, Monster Steamer Carpet Cleaning is a top-rated upholstery cleaning company that can help make your furniture look new again. Contact them today and get the professional results you deserve.