Upholstery – the comfy fabric surfaces of our sofas, armchairs, and ottomans – takes a beating. It endures daily wear and tear, from dust and crumbs to spills and pet hair.
Like many things in life, depends on a few factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you determine the ideal cleaning schedule for your upholstery:
Frequency of Use:
- High Usage: Homes with children, pets, or frequent entertaining see a lot of action on the furniture. In these cases, professional upholstery cleaning every 6 months is recommended.
- Moderate Usage: If your furniture sees average use, a professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months should suffice.
- Low Usage: Upholstery in guest rooms or formal living areas used infrequently might only need cleaning every 1-2 years.
Presence of Pets and Children:
- Furry Friends: Pets shed fur, which can become embedded in upholstery and trigger allergies. If you have pets, consider upping the professional cleaning frequency to every 6 months.
- Sticky Fingers: Spills and food accidents are par for the course with children. Address spills immediately and consider professional cleaning every 12 months.
Upholstery Material:
- Delicate Fabrics: Silk, linen, and velvet require more specialised care. Spot clean spills and consider professional cleaning every 12-18 months by a company experienced with delicate fabrics.
- Durable Fabrics: Leather and microfiber are easier to maintain. Regular wiping with a damp cloth and professional cleaning every 1-2 years will usually suffice.
Beyond Professional Cleaning:
Professional cleaning is essential for deep-seated dirt and allergens, but there’s plenty you can do in between:
- Vacuum Regularly: Weekly vacuuming with the upholstery attachment removes dust, pet hair, and crumbs. Pay attention to crevices, cushions, and underneath the furniture.
- Spot Clean Spills: Act fast! Blot up spills with a clean, absorbent cloth. Never rub, as this can spread the stain. Use a cleaning solution appropriate for the upholstery material. Refer to the care instructions on your furniture tags
- Freshen Up: Baking soda can absorb lingering odours. Sprinkle it on the upholstery, leave it for 30 minutes, and then vacuum thoroughly.
Maintaining Your Upholstery Investment
Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of your upholstery. By removing dirt, dust, and allergens, you prevent fabric breakdown and ensure a healthier living environment. Here are some additional tips:
- Rotate Cushions: Regularly rotate and flip cushions to ensure even wear.
- Keep it Covered: If you have pets or small children, consider using throws or light-coloured slipcovers to protect your upholstery from spills and stains.
- Address Sun Damage: Direct sunlight can fade upholstery. Use blinds or curtains to filter sunlight, and rotate furniture periodically.
By following these tips and establishing a cleaning routine tailored to your specific needs, you can keep your upholstery looking and feeling fresh for years to come. Remember, investing in upholstery cleaning is an investment in the comfort, beauty, and longevity of your furniture.