1. Test Cleaning Products

When using cleaning products designed for upholstery fabrics, check the packaging to make sure that it is appropriate for the particular type of fabric you want to clean. There are certain cleaners for certain fabrics and if you get the wrong type you could damage your furniture.
2. Read The Instructions!

Before using any cleaning product on textile fabrics, even when following directions on the packaging, test a small amount of it on a part of fabric that is not visible, such as the underside of a sofa’s skirt. Don’t test it on the back as you may want to move the furniture one day and could reveal any damage on the test spot.
3. Use Spray-On Products Where Possible

It is a good idea to use fabric protecting products on your textile furnishings, widely available in spray-on formulas. They will not stop your furniture from getting dirty or stained but do provide a useful added layer of protection.
4. Baking Powder

An easy and inexpensive way to freshen textile furnishings without risk of damage is to sprinkle the surfaces with baking powder. Let the powder sit for several minutes, then vacuum the furniture. The baking powder will absorb smells and leave your furniture refreshed.
5. Baby Wipes

For spot cleaning on leather and fabric upholstery, try using a baby wipe. They contain very gentle soap that can remove minor stains.
6. Clean White Cloths

When cleaning textile furnishings of any kind, only use clean white cloths. Even well-used rags are not always colorfast, and cleaning chemicals can bleed dye out of cloths and onto furniture.
7. Lint Brush

To prevent the need for big cleaning jobs, regularly clean your textile furnishings with a lint brush and vacuum cleaner. Rotate and flip cushions regularly so they all get even wear and fading. Covering furniture with a throw can extend cleanliness and the life of your furnishings.
8. Cold Water & White Vinegar

To freshen textile furnishings without harsh chemicals, mix cold water with a little white vinegar in a spray bottle, and spritz surfaces with it. The smell of the vinegar will quickly dissipate, leaving your furniture smelling clean and fresh.
9. Ventilation

During and after cleaning your textile furnishings, open all the windows in the room and turn on fans. This is healthier for you when you clean with chemicals as the room is well ventilated, and it helps the upholstery dry faster while blowing musty smells away.
10. Washing Instructions

When washing removable textile covers, always look for a label instructing you how they should be washed and follow those instructions. Also, if you wash one cover, wash them all so that all the fabric fades evenly.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 11th, 2009 at 10:53 am and is filed under Fabric Care, Tips and Hints. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.