Many homeowners have upholstered furniture in their homes. Whether it's a couch, a chair, a sectional sofa, or some other type of furniture, proper cleaning is essential for preserving its appearance. This guide explains how to properly clean and care for your upholstered furniture. 

4 Upholstery Cleaning Tips

1. Steam Clean Tough Stains

If your upholstery is discolored due to dirt, spilled food, pets, or just general wear and tear, steam cleaning can make a significant difference. Steam quickly and effectively lifts substances that get embedded in the fibers of your couches and chairs. However, there is an exception - if your upholstery contains silk, don't steam clean it since heat can damage this delicate material. 

2. Don't Scrub Spills

People's first instinct is often to scrub spills on their upholstery to absorb excess liquid. However, this approach can damage the fabric and cause stains to seep even further into the fibers. Instead, use an absorbent cloth to blot the standing liquid. Soak up as much of the moisture as you can with this method and act quickly before the liquid seeps into the sectional sofa. 

3. Test the Cleaner Before Using It

Make sure to test stain removers before applying them to large areas on your upholstered furniture. Pick an obscure spot, such as a small corner or an area on the back of your couch, to test the cleaner. Wait for an hour or so after applying it to ensure that it doesn't damage or change the color of the spot. Then, once you feel confident that the cleanser is safe, apply it to the actual stain. 

4. Don't Use Plain Water

Water may seem harmless, but it can leave unsightly marks on your upholstery once it dries. You're better off using rubbing alcohol to cleanse stubborn spots because it won't leave behind any residue.

If you're in the market for a new sectional sofa, visit BOVA Contemporary Furniture. This family-owned company has been in business for more than 30 years. They carry the latest pieces of modern furniture at fair prices. Their showroom is easily accessible from Cincinnati or Dayton, OH. Go online to explore their inventory or speak with a representative by calling (513) 247-9100.