Even on high-quality upholstered furniture, unwanted stains can occasionally appear. But what can you do? In most cases, you can take care of it yourself and take certain measures to make your upholstered furniture shine like new again. In the following guide, you will learn about the advantages and disadvantages of professional cleaning, how you can clean your sofa with everyday household products and natural upholstery cleaners, and which cleaning techniques are best suited.
Professional upholstery cleaning: A look at the advantages and disadvantages
You've probably asked yourself the following question before: Should I have my upholstered furniture professionally cleaned or should I do it myself? Especially with high-quality sofas, it can be worth leaving this to the cleaning experts. This is because professionals know the different materials well and know which measures to take and which to avoid . In addition, reputable cleaning companies usually have insurance that can cover damage if something goes wrong. One disadvantage, however, is the cost , as professional cleaning services are often expensive.
But don't worry: With the following tips, you can clean your couch without having to worry about having to throw it away afterwards. You can find out how this works in the following guide.
Cleaning a fabric sofa: What you should pay attention to when cleaning your upholstery
Before you get to work and start cleaning your upholstered sofa, you should stop for a moment and think about the right upholstery cleaner . Because using aggressive cleaning agents or the wrong technique can have a counterproductive effect and make stains worse . However, with the help of the following tips, you can prevent a disaster like this.
- The material of the upholstery: Each material requires different cleaning methods. To keep your sofa looking beautiful for a long time, you should know the material and take appropriate cleaning measures . You can usually find the care instructions on the sofa's label or in the product information.
- Basic cleaning: To ensure that you can enjoy your sofa for a long time, you should clean it regularly . This includes vacuuming off coarse dirt. This should be done every one or two weeks with a vacuum cleaner and the appropriate attachment for upholstery. The occasional wiping with a soft, light cloth moistened with distilled water is also part of basic cleaning. Upholstery covers, if removable, can be washed in the washing machine at 30 degrees . Also make sure to clean the gaps between the pieces of furniture. This is because lint, dust and crumbs tend to collect in these areas too.
- Stain removal: In the case of stains, you need to act quickly. Use absorbent cloths or blotting paper to absorb liquids immediately. Avoid rubbing vigorously so that the stain does not work deeper into the material. Depending on the type of stain, different cleaning agents and techniques can be used. For blood stains, we recommend using cold, carbonated water. Urine odor can be treated with distilled water and a little vinegar. Chocolate stains can be removed by gently scraping off the coarse residue and then cleaning with warm water and a sustainable upholstery cleaning spray . Be careful not to use any sharp objects to avoid damaging the cover.
But what other means are there to remove stains and extensive dirt from upholstered furniture? Find out now which natural household remedies are available to you.
Cleaning upholstered furniture: household remedies with power
Instead of using special cleaners, upholstered furniture can also be cleaned using household products. The choice of method depends on the type of stain and the material.
- Baking powder & baking soda: You can use baking powder or baking soda to remove oil stains . To do this, apply some powder to the stain, wait until it has absorbed the oil and then gently tap it off. The natural propellant can also be used to eliminate odors . Simply sprinkle it evenly over the upholstery and leave it to work for a few hours. Then remove the baking powder using a vacuum cleaner. Before your upholstered furniture can be used again, all areas should be completely dry.
- Salt: Salt can be used for red wine stains . Here too, you should wait a moment until the salt has absorbed the red wine and turns red. Then carefully dab the salt off with a microfiber cloth.
Image source: Pixabay
- Vinegar & water: Vinegar is not only good for eliminating unpleasant odors . It also removes stubborn stains such as coffee or tea. To do this, mix one part vinegar with one part water and rub the stain out of the material with a damp cotton cloth. Before you start the procedure , you should clean your couch and remove any dust and dirt .
Emma Grün Tip: Even if the home remedies mentioned are natural, you should first test them on an inconspicuous part of your couch to see if they are compatible with the material . This will prevent your sofa from being damaged.
Cleaning fabric couch: Remove dirt and odors with sustainable upholstery cleaners
A comfortable sofa is the perfect place to relax after a long day. But over time, unpleasant odors, dirt and stubborn stains can build up, especially in the upholstery of a fabric sofa. Instead of using aggressive chemicals , you should instead use sustainable products such as the premium upholstery cleaner from Emma Grün . Not only do they remove dirt , they also eliminate bacteria that tend to settle in the fibers of the upholstery and cause bad odors .
Image source: Pixabay
What's more , natural cleaners are more environmentally friendly and better for your health and that of your loved ones and pets . They are also very easy to use and simple to implement. Find out now how you can get your favorite sofa back in shape.
Step 1: Preparation
Before you start deep cleaning, your sofa needs to be freed of loose dirt particles. To do this, vacuum it thoroughly.
Step 2: Choose upholstery cleaner
You can't go wrong with a sustainable upholstery cleaner. Natural couch cleaners like the premium upholstery cleaner spray from Emma Grün remove stains and dirt and also act as a textile refresher. Thanks to natural ingredients based on washing soda and plant-based surfactants, they do this perfectly without damaging the material or leaving unsightly marks. Try it out and see for yourself how effective and environmentally friendly sustainable upholstery cleaners can be.
Step 3: Material test
Before you start, always test your upholstery cleaner on an inconspicuous area to ensure that the fabric is not damaged or the color fades.
Step 4: Stain treatment & deep cleaning
Apply the cleaner to stains, heavily soiled areas or the entire couch for a complete deep clean according to the directions. For best results, you can spray some of the upholstery cleaner onto the stain or treat your sofa generously . Using a soft sponge, brush or cloth, gently work the upholstery cleaner into the material and allow it to soak in for about an hour.
Step 5: Cleaning
Now you can wipe the cleaner away with a clean, damp cloth. Work from the outside in to make sure you don't leave any streaks or water spots.
Step 6: Let dry
Before you can use your sofa again, you should let the cushions dry thoroughly. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight during the drying phase, as this could cause the fabric to fade .
You will see: cleaning upholstery with the right natural upholstery cleaner is not complicated at all. You will definitely be delighted with the result, because your favorite piece will shine with new splendor and exude a naturally fresh scent. With regular cleaning, you will not only create a cozy and clean living atmosphere. You will also give your relaxation area a longer life.
Why are sustainable upholstery cleaners the better choice?
By using sustainable upholstery cleaners, you not only ensure that the upholstery of your couch is perfectly cleaned, you also do the environment a good service and prevent the harmful ingredients that are often contained in conventional cleaners from harming your health. You are guaranteed these benefits:
- Environmentally friendly: Sustainable upholstery cleaners are biodegradable and do not pollute the environment with harmful chemicals.
- Well-being: Natural upholstery cleaners are better for your health. There is no risk of toxic fumes being released during cleaning, which can cause allergies and irritation of the respiratory tract.
- Gentle cleaning: Sustainable cleaners are gentler on the material and prevent premature wear, which is commonplace when using aggressive chemicals.
- Long-term solution: To remove stains and odors from upholstered furniture without the risk of residue, upholstery cleaners are a perfect solution.
Sustainability can be so simple . And the good thing about it: You don't have to do without anything. Because fabric sofas and the like are cleaned effectively using natural ingredients, without harming your health or the environment.
Conclusion
Regular upholstery cleaning is the first step to maintaining the beauty and cleanliness of your fabric sofa. Whether it's removing stains, refreshing the fabric or eliminating unpleasant odors, the right care and a suitable upholstery cleaner are essential for this.
Choosing an environmentally friendly upholstery cleaner not only offers the advantage of gentle cleaning, but also protects the environment and your health. By testing it in an inconspicuous place and following the instructions on the label, you can ensure that the fabric sofa will not be damaged.
FAQ: Questions & Answers
How often should you clean your fabric sofa?
A fabric sofa should be cleaned every 6 to 12 months. This depends on use. Sofas that are subject to heavy use or in households with children or pets may require more frequent cleaning.
Which cleaning product can I use for my fabric sofa?
Mild upholstery cleaners should always be used to clean a fabric sofa. Household products such as vinegar and water can also be used to clean the sofa. However, the product should be tested on an inconspicuous area first.
How do I remove stains from my sofa?
To remove stains from upholstered furniture, you should first carefully dab the fresh stain with a clean cloth. To prevent marks on the surface, it is recommended to then carry out a complete cleaning with a natural upholstery cleaner.
How can you remove unpleasant smells from the sofa?
To remove unpleasant odors from a fabric sofa, you can either do a complete cleaning with an upholstery cleaner or use sustainable textile fresheners. Both options effectively eliminate bacteria that are responsible for the stench.
How can I protect my sofa from future stains?
Slipcovers are a good way to protect your couch from getting dirty again. To minimize the risk of stains, you should also avoid eating and drinking on the sofa.
Sources
1. Proper cleaning and care of upholstered furniture – https://www.polster-fischer.de/servicewelt/trendsetzer/tipps/polstermoebel-reinigen/
2. Cleaning the sofa – https://www.schoener-wohnen.de/amp/service/43004-rtkl-das-sofa-reinigen-unsere-besten-tipps
3. Cleaning sofas and other upholstery – https://www.dm.de/tipps-und-trends/haushaltstipps/putztipps/sofa-reinigen-147690
4. Cleaning upholstery – https://www.polsterando.de/ratgeber/polster-reinigen/
5. Cleaning upholstery: The best tips and home remedies – https://www.frag-mutti.de/thema/polster+reinigen
