Tips for Keeping Upholstery Clean

The cushions, arm rests and decorative pillows that provide you, your family with comfort are the areas of your home that require the most vacuuming. It only makes sense that your upholstery demands the most upkeep. At the same time, it’s the area of the home that doesn’t get as much attention as it should. Here are some helpful tips to keep your upholstered furniture as clean as possible (in between the professional cleanings, of course!) 

Become Proactive About Vacuuming 

First and foremost, vacuum regularly to better manage the pet hair and dirt that can soil cushions, arm rests, and pillows. No matter what kind of material your couch is made of, regular upkeep will keep it in the best condition possible.  Vacuum daily, and be thorough. For example, don’t just vacuum the surface of your cushions. Utilize your vacuum’s accessories such as the detachable brush which will allow you to get inside the crevasses for a throughout cleaning. If you’re too busy to do this yourself, enlist a teenager in the house to vacuum the upholstery as their after-school duty, and entice them with a special treat at the end of a week’s work and a job well done!

Toss Throw Pillows in the Dryer

This is a quick and easy tip for keeping gorgeous throw pillows to look their best. Many furniture owners make the mistake of bypassing care for the pillows by concentrating solely on the cushions. Tossing pillows in the dryer won’t just allow you to give them a quick clean to eliminate dust. It’s also a clever way to fluff them up and look their best!

Purchase Slip Covers and Arm Rests

If you struggle with frequent, unmanageable spills that seem to occur every other day of the week, a slip cover can be a great way to protect your upholstery. Visit your local department store and choose from a diverse selection of brands, colors, and prints that match your home décor.

Spot Check Daily and Apply a Treatment to Spills Immediately

Spills happen no matter how careful you are. But when they happen on your upholstery, make sure to treat them immediately. You don’t need an expensive cleaner for a quick fix. All it requires (to treat most stains and spills) is some common household products. Mix a quart of warm water with 1 teaspoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon ammonia, and ¼ cup of liquid or powdered laundry detergent. Apply just a tiny bit of the frothed mixture to the affected area, and blot with a moist towel. Keep your family members away from the area until it’s dry.

Call in The Professionals

If a home remedy doesn’t work, contact your local Chem-Dry professionals to take care of it quickly so you can get back to a healthy, happy, and spot-free home!