Upholstered benches can be a great addition to your home, providing comfortable seating in your entryway, dining room, or bedroom. However, just like any other upholstered furniture, benches can become dirty and stained over time, requiring regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best. In this article, we’ll go over some tips and tricks on how to clean upholstery on benches, whether it’s a small accent bench or a larger dining bench.
- Vacuum the Bench: The first step in cleaning your upholstered bench is to vacuum it thoroughly. Use an upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt, dust, and debris from the surface and crevices of the bench. This will also help to remove any pet hair or crumbs that may have accumulated on the bench.
- Check the Care Label: Before proceeding with any cleaning solution, check the care label on your bench to ensure that the fabric can be safely cleaned with water-based or solvent-based cleaning solutions. If the label suggests professional cleaning, it may be best to take the bench to a professional upholstery cleaner. However, if the label allows for DIY cleaning, continue with the next steps.
- Test for Colorfastness: It’s essential to test the upholstery fabric for colorfastness before applying any cleaning solution. Test a small, inconspicuous area of the bench with your cleaning solution and allow it to dry completely. If the color of the fabric remains unchanged, proceed with cleaning the rest of the bench. If the color of the fabric changes, stop immediately and consult a professional cleaner.
- Use a Cleaning Solution: Depending on the type of upholstery fabric, you can use a variety of cleaning solutions to clean your bench. For light stains and dirt, you can use a mixture of mild detergent and warm water. For tougher stains, you may need to use a specialized upholstery cleaner. Apply the cleaning solution to a clean, damp cloth and gently rub the fabric, being careful not to soak the fabric. Avoid using too much water or soaking the fabric as it can damage the upholstery.
- Rinse and Dry: After cleaning the bench, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Then, use a clean, dry cloth to blot up as much water as possible. Allow the bench to air dry completely before using it again. Avoid using a hairdryer or heater to dry the bench as it can damage the upholstery.
- Protect the Fabric: To protect your upholstered bench from future stains and spills, consider applying a fabric protector such as Scotchgard. This will create a barrier on the fabric, preventing any liquids or dirt from penetrating the fibers. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully when applying the fabric protector.
In conclusion, cleaning upholstered benches doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right cleaning solution and some gentle scrubbing, you can restore your bench to its former glory. Remember to test the fabric for colorfastness and protect it with a fabric protector to ensure it stays clean and looking great for years to come.