Spring Cleaning Time – Remember Your Upholstery!

It’s the perfect time for a fresh start, and like many, you’re probably gearing up for the annual spring clean. Amid the decluttering, dusting, and polishing, there’s an oft-overlooked aspect that deserves your attention—your upholstery.

Yes, your trusty sofa that’s seen many a movie night, your armchairs that have hosted countless cups of tea, and perhaps even that ottoman that doubles as a temporary storage space. They’ve been there through it all, silently collecting dust, crumbs, and everything else. It’s time to show them some love!

Why Focus on Upholstery Cleaning?

Upholstery is like a magnet for dust, allergens, and stains. Over time, these can affect the appearance and longevity of your furniture and the air quality in your home. Cleaning your upholstery as part of your spring-cleaning ritual can breathe new life into your furniture and home, making your living space fresher, cleaner, and healthier.

 

DIY Tips for Upholstery Cleaning

Before you consider calling in the professionals, there are plenty of simple, practical ways to care for your upholstery yourself. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Vacuum Regularly: We often overlook the simplest step. Use the upholstery tool attachment of your vacuum cleaner to remove pet hair, dust, and other debris from the surface of your furniture. Make it a regular cleaning routine to keep your upholstery looking its best.
2. Check the Cleaning Codes: Look for the manufacturer’s tag and check the cleaning codes. These provide valuable information on safely cleaning your upholstery without damaging the fabric.
3. Spot Cleaning: Spills happen, but they don’t have to lead to permanent stains. For most fabrics, you can use a mixture of mild detergent & water to blot away spills. Remember, always blot; don’t rub to avoid spreading the stain.
4. Consider a DIY Steam Cleaner: For a deeper clean, you may rent or purchase a steam cleaner designed for upholstery. It’s a great way to remove deeper dirt and allergens, leaving your furniture looking and smelling fresh.

 

When to Call the Professionals

While DIY cleaning can take care of everyday dirt and minor stains, sometimes a professional touch is needed, especially for tough stains, delicate fabrics, or simply to achieve a deeper clean. Professional upholstery cleaners will have the expertise and tools to safely and effectively clean your furniture. Extending its life and enhancing your home’s hygiene.

 

Making Upholstery Cleaning a Part of Your Spring Ritual

Incorporating upholstery cleaning into your spring-cleaning routine isn’t just about maintaining the appearance of your furniture; it’s about creating a healthier, more inviting home environment. Whether you tackle the job yourself or call in the professionals, the important thing is to remember your upholstery in your spring-cleaning plans.

 

By taking care of your furniture, you’re not just preserving your home’s aesthetic; you’re enhancing the quality of your living space. So, this spring, as you dust off the cobwebs and open your windows to the fresh air, don’t forget to give your upholstery the attention it deserves. After all, a clean home is a happy home.

 

FAQs about upholstery cleaning:

1. How often should I have my upholstery professionally cleaned?

For most homes, we recommend having your upholstery professionally cleaned at least once a year. However, you might consider scheduling a cleaning every 6 to 9 months for households with pets, children, or high usage. Regular cleaning will keep your sofa looking its best and extend its lifespan by removing dirt and oils that can degrade fabric over time.

2. Can all types of upholstery fabric be cleaned the same way?

No, different types of upholstery fabrics require different cleaning methods and products. Materials like leather, suede, and delicate fabrics each have specific needs to avoid damage. Professional upholstery cleaners have had training to identify the best cleaning method for your furniture’s fabric, ensuring it’s cleaned effectively and safely.

3. What benefits are there to professional upholstery cleaning over DIY methods?

Professional upholstery cleaning offers several advantages over DIY approaches. First, professionals can access high-grade cleaning solutions and equipment that are more effective at removing stubborn stains and built-up dirt. They also possess the expertise to safely clean various fabric types without causing damage. Additionally, professional cleaning can eliminate bacteria and allergens more effectively, creating a healthier living environment.

4. Will professional upholstery cleaning remove all stains?

While professional upholstery cleaning can remove the majority of stains from furniture, the success rate can depend on the nature of the stain, how long it’s been there, and the type of fabric. Some substances may dye the fabric fibres, making complete removal challenging. However, professionals have specialised techniques and products at their disposal, greatly increasing the chances of removing tough stains compared to home remedies.

Written by Tracey Gilbey, Marketing and Admin Coordinator at Art of Clean.

For further advice or information on our Carpet and Soft Furnishing care, please do not hesitate to contact the Art of Clean team on 01223 901551 in Cambridge. Our services include Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, oriental and area Rug Cleaning, Curtain Cleaning, Patio, and Driveway Pressure washing, Leather Cleaning, Stone and Tile Floor Cleaning, and Wood Floor Sanding and Restoration. We also supply new flooring and carpets through our sister company Art of Flooring. Our Dry-Cleaning service is provided by Farthings Cambridge