Introduction: Accidents happen, and when they involve spills or stains on your beloved upholstery, it’s essential to know how to address them promptly. While professional upholstery cleaning services like Norbury Carpet Cleaning are always available to tackle more challenging issues, having a few DIY cleaning hacks up your sleeve can help you manage everyday emergencies and keep your upholstery looking fresh and clean. In this blog post, we’ll share some effective upholstery cleaning hacks to help you address common spills and stains quickly and efficiently.
1. Blot, Don’t Rub
When a spill occurs, your instinct might be to rub the stain to remove it vigorously. However, this can push the stain deeper into the fabric fibres and spread it further. Instead, gently blot the stain using a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel. Start from the outside of the stain and work inward to prevent it from spreading.
2. Club Soda for Beverages
If you accidentally spill coffee, tea, wine, or soda on your upholstery, reach for club soda. Pour a small amount onto a cloth and blot the stain. Club soda’s carbonation helps lift the stain, making it easier to remove. Just remember to test a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t cause any colour fading.
3. Cornstarch for Greasy Stains
Greasy stains from foods like butter or oils can be tricky to remove. Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch onto the stain and let it sit for about 15 minutes. The cornstarch will absorb the grease. Gently brush off the powder and blot the area with a clean cloth to lift any remaining residue.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar for Odors
If your upholstery is suffering from unpleasant odours, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help. Sprinkle baking soda over the fabric, let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum it up. Follow up with a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar, lightly misting the fabric. The vinegar will neutralise odours. Allow it to air dry.
5. Hydrogen Peroxide for Blood Stains
Accidental cuts or injuries can lead to blood stains on upholstery. Dampen a cloth with hydrogen peroxide and gently blot the stain. The peroxide will help break down the blood proteins. Remember to do a patch test on an inconspicuous area before using hydrogen peroxide on your upholstery.
6. Mild Dish Soap Solution for General Stains
A mild dish soap solution is effective for tackling general stains on upholstery. Mix a few drops of dish soap with water and use a clean cloth to blot the stain. Avoid using too much water, as excessive moisture can damage the upholstery. Blot with a damp cloth to remove soap residue, and allow the area to air dry.
7. Use a Lint Roller for Pet Hair
If you have pets, you’re familiar with the struggle of pet hair on upholstery. A lint roller can be a quick and easy solution to remove pet hair from your furniture. Roll it over the fabric to pick up hair, dander, and other debris.
Conclusion: Regarding upholstery cleaning, quick action and proper techniques can significantly affect the outcome. While professional help is essential for deep cleaning and tougher stains, these everyday emergency hacks from Norbury Carpet Cleaning can help you maintain the cleanliness and beauty of your upholstery between professional cleanings. Remember that each fabric may react differently to cleaning methods, so always test any solution on a hidden area before applying it to a visible part of your upholstery.
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