Warning! Upholstery Cleaning Mistakes You Have Been Making

It's essential to recognize the type of fabric you're tackling before beginning an upholstery cleaning. This is true for any area of your household- just like you'd want your tile grout cleaned properly, so do you wish for your furniture and fabrics to look their best without being destroyed in the process? Upholsters come in many different kinds, from fragile materials to immensely durable ones - if neglected, they could lead to expensive repairs or replacements.

​You must stay abreast of common blunders to ensure your upholstery cleaning practices are efficient and effective. To help with this, here are a few cleaning missteps you ought to take note of and actively avoid:

Scrubbing Stains

The misconception arises that scrubbing will eliminate the stain by removing it. But scrubbing can cause stains to spread and give a blotchy appearance. A better approach to this upholstery cleaning depends on how old the stain is. If it is fresh, start by blotting it with a clean cloth. If the stain is older, you should pretreat it with an upholstery-safe chemical spot remover or cleaning solution before blotting. These ethical approaches in upholstery cleaning are less likely to stress the fabric and cause discoloration.

Overusing water

​Upholstery can be fragile and should never soak in water for cleaning. It will damage the fabric's fibers, leading to shrinkage or even fading. If an upholstered piece needs extra scrubbing, always use the least amount of water possible and thoroughly dry the piece after cleaning.

Using Chemical Homemade Solutions

While using some home concoctions may help with your upholstery cleaning, this often does more harm than good. Many DIY solutions are too harsh for fabrics or need more strength to remove stains. Furthermore, many household solutions, such as vinegar, cause discoloration in the fabric. It is best to stick with a professional upholstery-safe cleaning solution for the most effective results.

Not Testing Cleaners

It's essential to test any upholstery cleaner you are planning on using- regardless of the label stating "upholstery safe." It ensures that the solution won't damage your fabric by removing color or causing other harm. Before applying the product to your furniture, try a small area in an inconspicuous spot for examination purposes and wait to observe its reaction. If there is apparent damage to the material, avoid utilizing this cleaner altogether.

Wrongly Using Fabric Protectors

Most of us use fabric protectors to repel dirt and stains, but if not applied correctly, it could lead to an overall dull appearance. Make sure to use the correct amount of protector and avoid spraying too close or saturating the upholstery. Too much protection can cause a film on fabric that blocks any cleaning solutions from penetrating the surface. Moreover, it can form a gummy residue on the upholstery, which is hardly removable.

Misuse of Vacuum Attachments or Brushes

Upholstery cleaning requires special tools to clean the fabric without damaging it. Ensure you use the right vacuum attachment, such as a soft brush head, to avoid pulling and snagging the fabric's fibers. Also, use a soft brush for any light scrubbing necessary to avoid tearing or fraying the material.

Wrong Cleaning Techniques

The method of cleaning upholstery affects its appearance and longevity. Using the wrong cleaning technique can cause it to look matted and even faded. To avoid this, use light strokes when cleaning and circular motions for a uniform finish. Additionally, never rub the upholstery back and forth, as it can cause fraying or discoloration.

Professional Upholstery Cleaning

To guarantee a successful outcome and restore your furniture to its original beauty, contact an experienced upholstery cleaner. Professionals such as Orlando Tile and Grout, a company also known for tile and grout cleaning, have the right cleaning solutions and techniques to ensure that any piece of upholstered furniture will not suffer damage. Additionally, they can address specific issues like watermark fading or sun bleaching, which may be present on certain types of fabric upholstery.
The most important thing to remember in upholstery cleaning is to use proper cleaning techniques to maintain its pristine look. Take special care when cleaning, and following these tips will help you maximize the life of your furniture pieces for many years to come.