(Newswire.net — January 7, 2024) —
Despite the harrowing statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing that working mothers dedicate an average of just 1.1 hours each day to household chores, we know you often juggle multiple responsibilities. There is enough staining and spoiling of your furniture without worrying about keeping it fresh and tidy. With that in mind, this post is here to share effortless upholstery cleaning tips you can incorporate into your busy schedule.
Maintain Regular Upholstery Cleaning Habits
Although it might seem like an unnecessary chore piled onto an already busy lifestyle, making sure you have a regular cleaning habit can help keep your upholstery looking fresh longer. Vacuum your furniture weekly to get rid of crumbs, pet fur, and other debris that can dull the look of your favorite pieces. Wiping your furniture with a slightly damp cloth every few weeks will also ensure that surface dirt and grime do not infiltrate deeper into the fabric, keeping it fresh and vibrant.
Use Fabric Refreshers
Fabric refreshers are products specifically designed to deodorize and freshen up fabrics, rather than clean them. They are perfect for those times when you want to bring a quick breath of fresh air to your upholstery without taking the time for a deep clean. Use them sparingly though—they are not a substitute for regular cleaning!
Keep Food Away from Upholstery
One of the quickest ways to ruin a sofa or chair is by allowing food and drinks near it. Stains from oily foods or colorful drinks can be almost impossible to remove completely and may end up leaving permanent marks on your beloved pieces. Keep all foods and beverages away from upholstered furniture, no matter how tempting it may be to relax with a meal or a drink on the sofa.
Act Fast on Spills
When spills do occur, no matter how small they are, it is crucial to act fast. Blotting rather than rubbing a spill immediately it takes place will prevent the stain from setting into the fibers of the upholstery and causing long-term discoloration. It can also help preserve the fabric’s natural texture and appearance.
Use Upholstery Protector
A great way to guard against inevitable spills, grime, and everyday wear and tear is by using an upholstery protector. This product will create a barrier between your furniture and dirt particles, making it harder for them to penetrate and cause damage.
Deep Clean Once A Year
Even with all these precautions, it is still beneficial to invest in a professional deep cleaning service for your upholstery annually. These services have specialized equipment and trained personnel that can provide a level of cleaning that you cannot achieve at home. This intensive process will refresh your upholstery and keep it in top-notch condition for longer.
Leverage Baking Soda
A few household items serve as excellent DIY upholstery fresheners. One of them is baking soda.Scattering some baking soda over your upholstery, allowing it to sit for around 15 minutes, then vacuuming up the leftovers can work wonders in not just deodorizing your furniture but also lifting out grime.
White Vinegar Spray
Another great item readily available in your kitchen that can double as an upholstery freshener is white vinegar. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and spray lightly on your furniture. Allow it to dry completely before lounging on your refreshed upholstery.
Involve The Kids
While dirt and spills are often unavoidable with kids around, teaching them to take care of the furniture can reduce the amount of clean up you have to do. Show them how to eat without spilling, remove shoes before climbing onto the sofa, and use coasters for their drinks.
Consider Slip Covers
If you have young children or pets in your home, investing in good quality slipcovers for your upholstered furniture can extend its life. These slipcovers are easy to remove and launder, and they’ll protect your furniture from stains, pet hair, and general wear and tear.
Rotate Cushions Regularly
Rotating your cushions regularly can prolong the life of your sofa or chair. By doing so, it will showcase even wear since one side does not end up taking all the brunt of everyday use. This simple tip will keep your upholstery looking new longer.
Skip The Sunshine
Sun can be a fierce enemy to your upholstery. With too much exposure to direct sunlight, your furniture’s fabric color can fade significantly. Make sure to place your furniture strategically in areas not receiving intense sunlight or use curtains or blinds to limit exposure.
Vacuum Attachment Use
Your vacuum cleaner’s attachment tools can be useful allies while cleaning upholstery. Use them to reach corners and seamed areas that would otherwise harbor dust and grime.
Spot Cleaning Tips
When spot cleaning a stain or spill on upholstery, always blot the stain instead of rubbing it. Also, test any cleaning solutions on an unnoticeable area first to prevent discoloration or damage.
A Fresh Perspective
Keeping upholstery fresh might initially feel like an uphill endeavor with your hectic schedule, but incorporating some or all of these tips into your cleaning habits could make it a manageable task. Remember, it is not about having pristine furniture at all times but about extending its longevity and creating a welcoming, fresh environment in your home.