TL;DR: Choosing the right furniture and upholstery is key to making a house feel like a home. Proper cleaning is essential to maintaining its appearance and longevity, as each upholstery type requires specific care. Cotton and linen fabrics can often be cleaned with mild detergents, while velvet needs gentle blotting and specific products. For expert care in Sioux Falls, SD, EcoFresh Carpet Cleaning offers specialized services to keep your upholstery in top condition.

When decorating a house or apartment, picking the right pieces of furniture is the last touch that transforms the place from somewhere you live into an actual home. Over 60% of furniture buyers dedicate several weeks to selecting pieces that fit their style and complement their living space. A significant component of their final decision is the upholstery fabric.

However, even the highest-quality furniture with the most expensive upholstery material won’t stand the test of time if you don’t care for it properly. Each type of upholstery has unique requirements, meaning that one cleaning method doesn’t fit all. Each material, from delicate velvet to durable leather, demands specific cleaning techniques to remain in good condition.

Each fabric type needs individual care, so we’ll explain the best practices for cleaning different types of upholstery fabrics. Whether dealing with stains or general maintenance, keep reading to find actionable advice specific to each fabric type, allowing you to achieve optimal results.

Cleaning Methods for Specific Upholstery Fabrics

Stains and spots on furniture fabric often happen in busy homes. Most of us use the same cleaning trick on every blemish, especially if we have a mix of upholstery fabrics in the home. But that can backfire, making the stain worse or damaging the material you’re trying to clean. Individualized care will keep your upholstered furniture looking new and stain-free for years.

Cleaning Cotton Upholstery

Cotton upholstery is known for its durability and comfort, but it has a few drawbacks, like susceptibility to stains and fading. To remove any spots or discoloration, apply a gentle detergent and water mix. Add a little vinegar to the mix for more stubborn stains, and watch as it works wonders.

If you can remove the cotton cover of your furniture, you can also machine wash it if the care label allows. After washing, lay the fabric flat to dry to retain its original shape. To stop your cotton upholstery from shrinking, leave it to air dry, as the high heat from drying machines can cause it to diminish in size. If you notice any wrinkles after drying, a low-heat iron or a steamer can smooth them out.

Cleaning Linen Upholstery

Linen gives an airy and light look to any space. It’s also surprisingly strong despite its delicate nature. However, the natural fibers make it prone to absorbing liquids and retaining stains. For basic cleaning, use a mild soap mixed with water, or consider specialized linen cleaners available on the market.

Keep linen upholstery away from direct sunlight to prevent wrinkles and fading, and avoid using harsh cleaning agents. For routine maintenance, a soft brush or vacuum with a fabric attachment can help remove dust without damaging the fibers. When spills happen, act quickly by blotting the area with a clean, dry cloth to absorb any liquid before it sets in. A professional cleaning service can remove stubborn spots if nothing else works.

Cleaning Velvet Upholstery

Velvet upholstery gives off an opulent and luxurious vibe. However, due to its unique texture and fibers, it requires special care. Always look at the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning, but the general rules include: 

• For minor stains, gently blot the area with a soft, dry cloth to absorb any excess liquid. Don’t rub the spot, or you risk damaging the fibers.
• For stubborn stains, using a special velvet cleaning product may be necessary. These products effectively lift stains without harming the texture.
• To spot clean, lightly dab the stain with a soft cloth to remove excess moisture. Avoid using water directly on velvet, as this can leave water spots.

To restore the velvet’s plush feel after cleaning, lightly steam the fabric from a distance or use a soft brush to lift the fibers. This technique can help revive the original look without causing further damage. Vacuuming velvet upholstery with a soft brush attachment can prevent dirt buildup and keep it looking fresh.

Cleaning Leather Upholstery

While leather upholstery may seem tough, it requires careful handling. If not treated properly, it can quickly stain and scratch. Without adequate conditioning, your leather furniture will dry out and crack. For routine cleaning of leather upholstery:

• Use mild soap mixed with water.
• With a clean cloth and the mixture mentioned above, gently wipe the leather.
• Do not soak the cloth to prevent excessive moisture.
• Finally, use a leather conditioner to keep it smooth and soft.

Try to condition your leather every six months and avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners for other surfaces. They can remove the leather’s natural oils, making it dry out faster. Don’t place your leather furniture directly in the sun to prevent fading. If you encounter a stain, use a leather cleaner for your specific leather type.

Cleaning Microfiber Upholstery

Microfiber is a highly resilient upholstery fabric that’s easy to maintain, making it a favorite for many households. When it comes to cleaning, microfiber allows for convenient stain removal. For general upkeep, regular vacuuming helps prevent dirt and debris from building up. This step maintains the fabric’s texture and appearance.

For spot cleaning, rubbing alcohol is an effective solution that quickly lifts blemishes, but specialized microfiber cleaners can also do the trick. Avoid soaking the fabric when tackling stains, as too much moisture can lead to water rings or damage.

Cleaning Synthetic Blend Upholstery

Synthetic blends, often made from polyester or nylon, are durable materials with decent stain resistance. However, these fabrics can attract and retain bacteria and odors, making regular cleaning necessary. Start by checking the fabric tag for any specific cleaning instructions:

• “W” indicates water-based cleaning is suitable
• “S” means you should use a solvent

For general maintenance, vacuum your furniture weekly, focusing on crevices and seams to remove dust and crumbs. With a cloth damped in water and mild dish soap, spot clean the upholstery. If the stain persists, consider using an upholstery cleaner for synthetic blends. After cleaning, allow the upholstery to air dry completely, as moisture can lead to mildew.

Professional Upholstery Cleaning Services

You should have your upholstery cleaned every 12 to 24 months, depending on how much you use it or how exposed it is to dirt and stains. Frequent cleaning is best for homes with children and pets, but in general, you should call in for backup if you notice:

• Persistent odors
• Visible stains
• Dull appearance

Professionals know how to care for every different upholstery material, keeping it in brand-new condition. They can examine your upholstery, identify the best cleaning methods, and tackle tough stains effectively. Specialized cleaning can prolong the life of your furniture by preventing damage that improper cleaning techniques might cause. With their experience, professionals can also provide advice on maintenance practices to keep your upholstery looking fresh and clean.

Professional Upholstery Care in Sioux Falls, SD

Every piece of furniture in your home is unique and has character, from the shape to the upholstery material. That’s why it requires personalized care and attention. To give the upholstery in your home the care it deserves, look no further than EcoFresh Carpet Cleaning in Sioux Falls.

We use eco-friendly practices and high-quality cleaning techniques to give your upholstery the attention it needs. With a range of specialized services, including stain removal and quick-dry options, we focus on delivering outstanding results that leave your furniture sparkling. 

Our experienced team uses advanced cleaning methods that prioritize the safety of your home, pets, and children. For guaranteed satisfaction, contact us today and experience the difference!