How to Clean Hard-to-Clean Furniture

Your furniture is an important part of every room. But did you know each piece of furniture can also be a major carrier of germs and bacteria? You don’t want anyone is your home to get sick just because they sat on your sofa, but many types of furniture, such as sofas and chairs, are very difficult to clean, which is the reason it is a hub of germs. But don’t worry. You can clean all of your furniture so that it’s clean enough to eat off of if you take the right steps.

Leather

Leather sofas, chairs, and ottomans are fabulous. They bring a sophisticated, yet expensive look to any room. Yet there is a lot of care involved any time you need to clean your leather furniture. Use these tips derived from the IIRC’s guidelines to keep your leather both clean and looking great.

• Clean up spills and liquid stains as quickly as possible.

• Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning.

• Remove dirt with a soft brush before cleaning with soaps.

• Use saddle soap and very mild cleaners for disinfecting and spot cleaning.

• Avoid abrasive pads or excessive scrubbing.

• Maintain the glossy finish with proper product.

• Hire professionals to restore the furniture when it’s at its worst.

Vinyl

The more affordable version of leather takes a little less maintenance when it comes to keeping it clean. The following tips will help you keep your vinyl clean and free from cracks for longer.

• Vacuum your vinyl upholstery weekly.

• Clean up spills and liquid stains as quickly as possible.

• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.

• Use a mix of mild dishwashing soap and water and non-abrasive pads for cleaning.

• Apply a special finish that resists dirt and germs and keeps vinyl looking good longer.

Upholstery

Whether microfiber, linen, or chintz, your upholstered furniture is one of the most difficult things to clean. If you have pets or small children, your upholstery is at even greater risk of damage and bacteria, and it’s important for you to take the following steps to keep it clean.

• Vacuum weekly using an upholstery brush and before spot cleaning.

• Blot spills quickly if possible.

• Use appropriate cleaners for the type of fabric you’re cleaning (follow manufacturers instructions).

• Use mild cleaners, such as dishwashing soap mixed with water, to clean stains.

• For more stubborn stains, try upholstery cleaning solutions.

• Before using any cleaning solution on your furniture, test it on an inconspicuous spot to see if it will cause any damage.

As you clean your furniture, remember the health benefits as well as appeal keeping your furniture clean can bring. It may take a little bit of work, but if you’re willing to do it, you can keep your family safe and healthy and your furniture looking like new for years.