Upholstered accent chairs can add style and comfort to any room in your home, but they can also become a magnet for dirt, dust, and stains. Keeping your accent chairs clean is important not only for aesthetic reasons but also for maintaining their overall condition and longevity. In this article, we’ll go over some tips and tricks for cleaning upholstery on accent chairs to help you keep your furniture looking its best.
Step 1: Vacuum
The first step in cleaning upholstery on accent chairs is to vacuum them thoroughly. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any loose dirt, dust, and pet hair from the surface of the fabric. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, including the seams, corners, and edges of the chair.
Step 2: Spot Clean Stains
Next, tackle any stains on the upholstery. There are several methods you can use to remove stains from fabric, depending on the type of stain and the fabric of the chair. Here are some general guidelines:
- For water-based stains such as coffee, tea, or juice, use a clean, damp cloth to blot the stain. Do not rub, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric. Repeat until the stain is lifted.
- For oil-based stains such as grease or makeup, use a clean, dry cloth to blot up as much of the stain as possible. Then, apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain and work it in with your fingers. Let the soap sit for a few minutes, then blot the area with a clean, damp cloth until the stain is lifted.
- For stubborn stains such as ink or wine, you may need to use a commercial upholstery cleaner. Always test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric. Follow the instructions on the cleaner and use a clean, damp cloth to blot up any excess cleaner after the stain is lifted.
Step 3: Deep Clean
After spot cleaning any stains, it’s time for a deep clean. There are several methods you can use to deep clean upholstery, including steam cleaning, dry cleaning, and shampooing. Here’s how to do each method:
- Steam cleaning: Use a steam cleaner with a fabric attachment to clean the upholstery. The steam will penetrate the fabric and remove dirt and grime. Make sure to follow the instructions on your steam cleaner and test it on an inconspicuous area first. After cleaning, let the chair dry completely before using it again.
- Dry cleaning: Use a dry cleaning solvent designed for upholstery to clean the fabric. Apply the solvent to a clean cloth and work it into the fabric, then let it dry completely. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove any remaining residue.
- Shampooing: Use an upholstery shampoo and a clean, damp sponge to clean the fabric. Work the shampoo into the fabric with the sponge, then rinse with a clean, damp cloth. Let the chair dry completely before using it again.
Step 4: Protect the Upholstery
Once your accent chair is clean, it’s a good idea to protect the upholstery from future stains and spills. One way to do this is to apply a fabric protector such as Scotchgard. Fabric protectors create a barrier between the fabric and spills, making them easier to clean up. Follow the instructions on the fabric protector and test it on an inconspicuous area first.
In conclusion, cleaning upholstery on accent chairs is an important part of maintaining their appearance and prolonging their lifespan. By following these simple steps, you can keep your furniture looking great for years to come.