DIY projects are the best way to go not only because of the way that the economy is going; it will save you money but also give you the satisfaction that you completed the project on your own.
Let’s start off with cleaning machines, some machines will do the job as long as they are soap and warm water based cleaning machines. While they work, they are more trouble than they are worth and don’t save you any time anyway. They could save you time if you set aside an entire day to clean all the upholstery in your home, but let’s face it, who wants to do that? And besides, most upholstery cleaning jobs are on an emergency as needed basis shortly after the soiling has occurred. If you use your machine for these emergency jobs, you will end up spending more time unpacking the machine, prepping it, adding product, then afterwards, emptying and cleaning the machine that by the time you are finished you are exhausted. Additionally, NEVER use a steam-based cleaning machine. Certain fabrics are extremely sensitive to steam and they will shrink and tighten, destroying the entire piece of furniture.
Directions to clean leather and vinyl:
1. Remember to wipe the area down well with a dry cloth or paper towel.
2. Mix only a couple drops of dish soap with warm water.
3. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and wring tightly, removing all excess liquid. (you do not want to soak your furniture in water because it can mess up the material and will take longer to dry)
4. Lightly wipe the surface with the cloth, using circular motions.(do not scrub it!)
5. Have another clean, dry cloth readily available and then blot it dry.
Directons to clean fiber-based upholstery:
This can be a bit harder to do, but follow close attention the directions.
Before you try cleaning anything, you need to first vacuum the affected area with the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner, but remember these two important tips: (1.) Always use the attachment! Without it, the pressure will be too strong and the vacuum will actually work the dirt further into the upholstery. (2.) Do not brush the upholstery with the vacuum! Apply the vacuum to the upholstery with a dabbing motion. Do not scrub. Once this is done, we can proceed to the next phase of the cleaning.
1. In a container, combine ¼ cup dish soap with 2 cups warm water. Using either an egg-beater, wire whip, or electric mixer, whip or beat the solution until a thick foam forms. Using the same measure as whip-cream, it is ready when you can form peaks.
2. With a dry cloth (I prefer cotton, but some swear by microfiber) apply a little of the cleaning foam to an inconspicuous area to test for discoloration. If no discoloration occurs, apply the foam to the soiled area. Do not rub it in. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. You will notice dirt and grime rise up into the foam as it dissipates and sinks into the upholstery.
3. After 10-15 minutes, use a rubber spatula to scrape the foam out of the area. Discard the foam.
4. Dampen a cloth in warm water and wring out. Use the cloth to blot the area rinsing excess foam out of the material. Do not scrub!
5. Blot the area again with a dry cloth or paper towel to remove as much water as possible.
6. Place a fan nearby aimed at the furniture to hasten the drying process. The goal is to keep the furniture from being wet for the least amount of time possible.
