steam clean upholstery tips for perfect results
Have you never looked at your couch and wondered whether it always looked this dull? Let’s face it; the couch does see it all: movie nights, snack spills, pets sleeping, and lazy Sunday lounging. Time, dirt, allergens, and stains hide even in the cleanest-looking upholstery. And no matter how many times you vacuum and spray air freshener in the room, somehow the musty feeling still hangs around. The hidden advantage you did not realize you had might be steam cleaning.
Using no chemicals at all, steam cleaning is a green, penetrating way of removing dirt, killing germs, and rejuvenating fabric. But you need to use it well if you desire the best results. Before going full steam ahead, check out these five tips by Bond Cleaning in Perth that should make your upholstery look, feel, and smell new again.
1. Know Your Fabric First
Before you set your steam cleaner in motion, take a look at the cleaning code label on your furniture. Most upholstery will come with a tag that bears a letter code:
- W or water means it is safe to use water-based cleaners.
- S means use solvent cleaners only, which means no water.
- WS means either is safe.
- X means vacuum only, no steam cleaning!
If the upholstery is unsuitable for steam, it could shrink, become stained, or just simply get damaged. So whenever in doubt, check the tag or the manufacturer’s care guide.
2. Vacuum Before Steam Cleaning
One of the most colossal errors committed by people is skipping the vacuuming step. Steam and dust are just dramatic: crumbs, pet hair, or loose debris on surfaces turn into a muddy mess when hit with hot moisture.
Vacuum very well, using a brush attachment-this includes the corners, creases, and underneath the cushions-otherwise steam cleaning will not work as well and might even damage the cloth.
3. Pre-Treat the Stains
Tough stains coming from coffee spills and grease may not vanish upon steam treatment while the others may. It is recommended to treat any visible stain with mild upholstery cleaner before steam cleaning beds for the best results. After applying the product and leaving it on for some minutes, the area should be gently blotted, remembering never to rub.
This Bond Cleaning Sunshine Coast breaks down the stain so that it is easier for it to be lifted out by the steam cleaner.
4. Use Correct Settings and Tool
Most steam cleaners come with several attachments. Be sure to use the upholstery or fabric-specific tool and always start with the lowest heat and pressure settings. Conduct a test run on a hidden area of the sofa to check how the fabric responds to the treatment before proceeding to the visible areas.
Over-wetting cannot be allowed, as too much steam can ruin delicate fabrics or cause mildew to form. A slow and even motion would be beneficial for a deep yet gentle clean.
5. Let Dry Fully
Now, allow it to dry entirely before putting the furniture to use. Open the windows, or employ a fan, or even put it in the sunlight to hasten drying time. Do not sit on it until it is totally dry; otherwise, it may encourage mildew to grow with moisture. You can also blot gently with a clean, dry towel for speedy drying.
Conclusion
Steam cleaning your upholstery is one of the best methods to rejuvenate your home, kill germs, and prolong the life of your furniture. These are tips on how to do it well, something that will result in a very clean, but freshened out, couch.
Also learn about Ten Crucial Cleaning Items Every House Needs