Things You'll Need:
- Rough cloths
- Soap flakes
- Boiling water
- Borax
- Oscillating fan
- Vacuum attachments for upholstery and corners
- Large bucket
- Tuff stuff or other upholstery spray
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Step 1
Remove any covers or cushions.
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Step 2
Thoroughly vacuum the entire surface including the sides, arms, both sides of the cushions the base as well as any corners and creases using an upholstery or crevice vacuum attachment.
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Step 3
Replace the cushions.
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Step 4
Check your furniture's label for cleaning instructions before washing. Some solutions can damage delicate fabrics.
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Step 5
Test the shampoo and stain treatments by applying a small amount to the back of the furniture. Check for fading, discoloration or shrinking.
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Step 6
Spot treat any existing stains with a stain remover like Tuff Stuff, or another spray upholstery cleaner.
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Step 7
Heat 1 pint of water until boiling. Remove the water from the stove. Add 6 tablespoons of soap flakes (you can buy them or make them yourself using a grater and plain bar soap) and 2 tablespoons of Borax. Mix together, and let cool until the mixture thickens. Whisk until it foams. Pour shampoo into a large bucket. While cleaning you may need to reheat the soap to get more foam.
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Step 8
Use a rough cloth or brush to clean the upholstery but gently putting part of the cloth into the the soapy solution. Do not to soak the fabric.
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Step 9
Use a clean damp cloth to soak up the dirty soap, and rinse with a damp cloth.
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Step 10
Let the furniture dry overnight with an oscillating fan pointed at the wet furniture to help it dry more quickly.
