Cleaning Tips to Make Your Furniture Look Brand New
The furniture of your house is what makes it a home—down to your couches, loveseats, recliners, dining table and chairs, and so on. And we all know it isn’t there just for functional purposes— it’s a major way you express your sense of taste and style. You use your furniture on an everyday basis, from kicking back and relaxing on the couch at the end of the day, to sharing meals with your loved ones around the dining table.
Because your furniture defines your home, there’s no doubt that you want it to look and work at its best for the longest time possible. Of course, it is inevitable that with everyday use, your furniture will start looking a little worn down.
Dust, mud, fingerprints, stains, oil, pet dander, and even sweat and food odors will eventually accumulate on the surfaces and in the fibers of your furniture. Eventually, all of that dirt and debris is going to negatively impact the comfort, function, and overall aesthetic appeal of your furnishings— even shortening its lifespan.
Routinely cleaning your furniture pieces will help extend their overall life, while also enhancing the look and feel of your home.
If your furniture is starting to look a little lackluster, here are some cleaning tips you can use to restore its appearance.
Upholstered Furniture
Vacuum
First, remove the cushions of your couch and place them face-up on a flat surface.
Using the upholstery attachment on your vacuum, start on the back corner of each cushion— and using a back and forth sweeping motion— suction up the dirt and debris across the entire surface, until you reach the front.
Then, flip the cushion over and use the same motion on the opposite side. (Make sure to vacuum the edges, too!)
Vacuum the bottom of your couch (where the cushions sit), and make sure you cover the entire surface. Using the crevice attachment, concentrate on the edges and corners.
Finally, using the upholstery attachment again, vacuum the remaining upholstered surfaces— including the arms and back.
Regular cleaning of your couch is essential for maintaining its appearance and prolonging its lifespan. Vacuuming your couch regularly helps to remove dust, dirt, and allergens that accumulate over time. It is recommended to vacuum your couch at least once a week, or more frequently if you have pets or children.
By following the steps above, you can easily keep your couch clean and looking great for years to come. Remember to also check your manufacturer’s instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations or restrictions.
Remove spots and stains
If there are any spots and stains on your upholstery, you can use a solvent-based material to remove them. Make sure you read the tags or manual to find out what type of cleanser to use. If the tags on your furniture are missing, research online or reach out to an upholstery cleaning professional for tips and advice.
Prior to removing spots and stains, test out the cleanser by applying a small amount on an inconspicuous location. Allow the cleaner to air dry completely and check for any discoloration. If no issues occur, proceed with working on removing the spots and stains by applying the solvent to a clean sponge and working it into the material to loosen and lift the dirt.
If you’re dealing with tough stains like ink or blood, try using a mixture of one-part dish soap and two parts hydrogen peroxide. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth. For pet stains, use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for upholstery.
Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area before applying it to the stain. Remember, always blot stains instead of rubbing them to prevent them from spreading.
Wood Furniture
Dusting
Use a soft, clean cloth to wipe away dust buildup. You can use a commercial duster spray, which is designed to slow future dust buildup— but make sure you test it on an inconspicuous spot first.
Buff, wax, and polish
To protect the wood and restore its finish, buff, wax, and polish it. Add a bit of oil to a soft, clean cloth and wipe the piece down.
Next, buff the surface to remove residue.
Lastly, polish it with a gentle commercial polish to bring out the finish and highlight the features of the wood.
Leather Furniture
Vacuum
Start by vacuuming the leather with the soft brush attachment—this attachment will help to minimize the risk of damaging the leather.
Remove all cushions and work in a forward and back motion until the entire surface is vacuumed. Do the same on the other opposite side.
Finally, vacuum the bottom part of your couch (where the cushions sit), the arms, and the backs.
Dirt and stain removal
Mix a tablespoon of mild dish soap with lukewarm water and dip a soft clean cloth into the mixture, wring it out, and gently wipe down any dirt on the surface of the leather. Use a clean, soft, dry cloth to pat the furniture dry. If mild detergent doesn’t work, you can substitute for vinegar, but make sure you test it out on an inconspicuous location first.
Furniture plays a significant role in defining the look and feel of your home, but with everyday use, it can accumulate dust, stains, and other forms of debris that can impact its overall aesthetic appeal and lifespan. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your furniture looking and working at its best for years to come.
The above tips for cleaning upholstered, wood, and leather furniture can help you maintain the cleanliness and beauty of your furnishings, enhancing the comfort, function, and overall aesthetic appeal of your home.
Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations or restrictions and test any cleaning products on an inconspicuous area before applying them to the furniture.
