Cleaning and shampooing your sofa chair can refresh its look and remove built-up dirt, dust, and allergens. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Preparation:
Identify your fabric: Check the care label on your sofa to determine the fabric type (cotton, linen, leather, etc.) as different fabrics require different cleaning methods.
Gather supplies: You’ll need a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, a soft brush, a clean microfiber cloth, a bucket, warm water, and a suitable cleaning solution. For deep cleaning, consider using a commercial upholstery shampoo specifically designed for your fabric type.
Pre-treat stains: If there are any visible stains, pre-treat them with a suitable stain remover following the product instructions.
Cleaning:
Vacuum thoroughly: Use the upholstery attachment to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair from the entire surface of the sofa, including crevices and cushions.
Mix your cleaning solution: Follow the instructions on your chosen cleaning product to mix it with warm water in the bucket.
Test the solution: Apply a small amount of the solution to an inconspicuous area of the sofa and check for colourfastness. If no discoloration occurs, proceed with cleaning.
Clean the sofa: Dip the microfiber cloth into the cleaning solution, wring it out well to avoid soaking the fabric, and gently wipe the entire sofa surface. Work in small sections and avoid over-wetting the fabric.
Rinse: Rinse the cloth frequently in clean water and wipe the cleaned areas again with a damp cloth to remove any cleaning residue.
Shampooing (optional):
Heavy soiling: If your sofa requires deep cleaning, consider using an upholstery shampooing machine. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use and ensure the machine is suitable for your fabric type.
Professional cleaning: For heavily soiled or delicate fabrics, consider hiring a professional upholstery cleaning service.
Drying:
Air dry: Allow the sofa to air dry completely before using it again. Open windows and use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process.
Avoid direct sunlight: Do not expose the wet sofa to direct sunlight, as this can cause fading or discoloration.
