- Upholstery cleaners are available to clean up everything from old blood stains to freshly spilled milk. Some are specifically formulated for heavily trafficked areas, outdoor furniture, delicate fabrics, pet messes or other particular uses, but the majority boast the power to clean a wide variety of stains. Many upholstery cleaners are also safe for use on carpet, drapery or even clothing. Professionals can also be called in who will bring their own supplies and cleaning devices, for the easiest yet most expensive way to clean upholstery.
- Many of the upholstery cleaners come in an aerosol can or container with an attached nozzle and are sprayed directly on the area that needs cleaning. Others, like an oxygen-activated deep cleaner, come in a little plastic unit with a brush and cleaning pad attached. Still others are packaged in an entire set, like the five-piece Professor Amos set, which comes with a bottle each of a liquid cleaner and protector, as well as a spray nozzle, brush and sponge. Most are fairly inexpensive, costing less than $10.
- Most upholstery cleaners work in a similar manner, but variations may be instructed on the label. The cleaner is sprayed or otherwise applied to the upholstery and allowed to dry. Dirt that has coagulated is then brushed or gently scraped off with a spatula or dry sponge. The area is rinsed with clean, warm water and a soft rag. Some cleaners, or even clear, cold water, can be used in conjunction with the hand-held attachments from a carpet cleaner or wet vacuum to further penetrate and whisk away the coagulated dirt.
- Those who like making their own products can certainly try their hand at homemade upholstery cleaner. A cleaning solution can be created by mixing one-quarter cup liquid laundry detergent or liquid dish detergent with one cup of warm water. Mix the concoction with a whisk or hand mixer until a froth of suds form on the top of it. Use a cloth or soft brush to apply the suds to affected area, scrubbing lightly. Let the area dry, then scrape or brush off any dirty suds that form. Repeat until the piece is clean, rinsing all areas with a wet cloth then allowing it to fully dry before use.
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Before cleaning any upholstery, the cleaner should be first tested in a small, innocuous area of the fabric. Pick a corner on the back of the couch or underside of a cushion to apply the cleaner according to the package directions. If the cleaner damages the fabric, do not proceed but find a gentler mix.
Because many cleaner are made of caustic chemicals, they may be harmful. Keep children and pets away from the pieces being cleaned until the process is complete and the area is fully dry.
