Care Tips for Fine Upholstery | Fabra-Cleen | NY | NJ | CT
How to Care for Your Fine Upholstery
By far, professional upholstery cleaning and protection is the best possible way to extend the life of your upholstered furniture. General care information includes vacuuming, rotating cushions, UV protection, and other precautions. Vacuum often to reduce grit that can cause abrasion. Reverse loose cushions weekly for even wear. Protect from the sun. UV light can cause deterioration. Keep pets off the furniture. Your pets’ body oils rub off and can be difficult to remove. Use caution with clothing such as blue jeans. Fabric dyes can transfer to upholstered furniture. And last, but most definitely not least, clean spots and spills immediately.
Cleaning Spills
All upholstered furniture will become soiled through use. Most spills and soil on fabric protection treated furniture will clean easily and quickly provided that the proper cleaning procedures are followed. A fabric protection application is not an absolute impenetrable barrier and improper cleaning methods can damage both the fabric and the treatment.
- Blot (don’t rub) spills immediately with a clean absorbent cloth while the spill is still fresh. Dried spills are more difficult to remove.
- Identify the cleaning code (see chart below) for your type of fabric. This is very important to determine the cleaner to use.
- Always read and follow the instructions on the cleaning agent.
- Use distilled water with the cleaning agent if water is called for. (W and WS codes only.)
- Pretest any cleaner on any fabric in a hidden area. check for color fastness and fabric compatibility.
- Keep a small spill small. Work lightly, blotting from center to the edges. “Feather” the edges by dampening edges irregularly and blotting quickly to avoid rings.
- Quickly dry a cleaned spot using a small fan or blow dryer set on low.
Cleaning Codes
W | Spot clean with water based shampoo or foam upholstery cleaner. Pretest for color loss and fabric compatibility. DO NOT overwet. Call us for professional cleaning for overall soiling. |
S | Spot clean with a water-free cleaning solvent. Pretest for color loss and fabric compatibility. DO NOT USE WATER! Call us for professional cleaning for overall soiling. |
WS | Spot clean with upholstery shampoo, foam from a mild detergent, or a mild dry cleaning solvent. Pretest for color loss and fabric compatibility. DO NOT overwet. Call us for professional cleaning for overall soiling. |
X | Clean only by vacuuming or light brushing with a non-metallic brush. DO NOT use water or dry cleaning solvents. Call us for professional cleaning. |