In spite of our best efforts, we’ve all experienced the inevitable drink or food spill on the furniture we use to showcase for our home – whether it is a couch, dining or club chair – and the more natural the fabric, the greater our disappointment in whoever perpetrated the clumsiness.
After the horror subsides, we spring into action.
“Clean the spot immediately,” we may remember our parents saying.
A quick response is essential; but what can we actually do? Is there a magic cleansing potion? Do I use water? How about soap? Do I scrub it with a brush? Why or why not?
The short answer is, DO get to it quickly. And NO, there is no magic potion. Products can definitely be useful, but they are not the first line of defense. Technique does matter, however. More on that later.
- With any spot, blotting is the first step. Take a clean, old bath towel and immediately blot the area to wick up the spill. This serves to remove as much as possible from your proudly owned showpiece.
- Within two to three days at the latest, call a home service provider with a professional truckmount water extraction carpet and upholstery cleaning machine.
- If you do not have access to a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner, or it’s not an option at this time, carefully clean with water and perhaps a small amount of baking soda ONLY. The lighter the fabric color, the more likely it is that you will get a water stain and/or yellowing.
Which brings us to the longer answer: “It depends on the fabric type and color.” Fabric type and color are pretty important. The more natural the fiber, the more difficult it will be to remove a spot and/or avoid a stain. And the lighter the color, the more difficult it will be to avoid a water spot post-cleaning yellowing, even if you use just water. The darker the color, the more likely that a cleaning product can end up stripping the color. Avoid any products containing bleach or lightening agents.
- If you must clean the spot, make sure you quick-dry it with a regular hair dryer to avoid the telltale water spot and/or yellowing.
Refresh Your Furniture Today with Expert Upholstery Cleaning
Don’t let stains ruin the look and feel of your furniture. At Dave’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, our professional cleaning services restore your sofas, chairs, and cushions to like-new condition—safely and effectively. We all have had our clumsy moments so don’t let that ruin your furniture since we have the tools and expertise to bring it back to life. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and experience the Dave’s difference. Call now at (310) 230-3800 or contact us online—your furniture will thank you!
To learn more about our cleaning services, visit www.DavesRugCare.com.
