Upholstered furniture adds comfort and style to your home, enhancing both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, over time, your cherished pieces can accumulate stubborn stains that diminish their appearance and shorten their lifespan if left untreated.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common upholstery stains and provide effective, step-by-step methods to tackle each one. Read on to discover how to keep your furniture looking fresh and pristine for years to come.
4 Common Upholstery Stains and Step-by-Step Methods to Treat them
1. Coffee and Tea Stains
Spills from coffee and tea are common on upholstered furniture; if not treated promptly, they can leave stubborn, dark stains. Fortunately, with the right approach, these stains can be effectively removed. Follow the steps to remove them.
⇒ Step 1: Blot The Stain immediately: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the coffee or tea as possible. Avoid rubbing to prevent spreading.
⇒ Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap with 2 cups of cold water, and add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar for added benefits.
⇒ Step 3: Apply the Solution: Gently blot the stain with the solution using a clean cloth, working from the outside in.
⇒ Step 4: Rinse And Dry: Once you see the stain disappear, blot the residue with a cloth dampened in fresh water and let the upholstery dry. You can turn on the fans or open the windows to speed up drying.
2. Wine Stains
Red wine stains can be particularly tricky, as they are highly pigmented and can set quickly. Immediate action is key to preventing long-lasting damage to your upholstery.
⇒ Step 1: Blot the Stain: Quickly blot the wine with a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
⇒ Step 2: Sprinkle the Salt: Leave it for 10-15 minutes, let it absorb the wine, then vacuum.
⇒ Step 3: Prepare and Apply the Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap or white vinegar with 2 cups of cold water. Dab the solution onto the stain gently, without rubbing.
⇒ Step 4: Blot, Rinse, and Dry: Use a dry cloth to absorb excess moisture. Blot with a cloth dampened with cold water to remove any remaining solution. Let the area air dry completely.
3. Grease and Oil Stains
Grease and oil stains can penetrate deeply into fabric fibers, making them particularly difficult to remove. Tackling these stains promptly can prevent permanent damage.
⇒ Step 1: Blot the Stain: Use a paper towel to absorb as much grease or oil as possible.
⇒ Step 2: Apply Baking Soda or Cornstarch: Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum.
⇒ Step 3: Prepare and Apply the Solution: Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 2 cups of warm water. Apply the solution with a clean cloth.
⇒ Step 4: Blot, Rinse, and Dry: Use a dry cloth to absorb excess solution and grease. Blot the stain with a damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Allow the area to air dry completely before you start using the upholstery.
4. Pet Stains
Pet stains, such as urine or vomit, can not only stain your upholstery but also leave behind unpleasant odors. Swift and thorough cleaning is essential to eliminate both the stain and the smell.
⇒ Step 1: Blot the Stains: Quickly blot the area with a paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.
⇒ Step 2: Neutralize Odor: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, and apply the solution to neutralize odors.
⇒ Step 3: Blot the Solution: Use a clean cloth to remove the solution from the upholstery.
⇒ Step 4: Sprinkle Baking Soda: Let it sit for 15 – 30 minutes to absorb the odors.
⇒ Step 5: Vacuum, Rinse, and Dry: Vacuum the baking soda thoroughly. Blot the area with a damp cloth to remove any cleaner residue. Let the upholstery air dry completely before using.
Note: Remember to adhere to the care label of the upholstery and other dos and don’ts of upholstery cleaning before you use any cleaning solutions for safety purposes.
Call us for Efficient Upholstery Cleaning Service
With these methods, you can easily remove common upholstery stains and keep your furniture looking fresh. These DIY techniques not only eliminate stains but also help revive the appearance of your upholstery. However, professional upholstery cleaning is the best solution if you encounter particularly stubborn stains.
At Skyy Blue Carpet Cleaning, we utilize advanced cleaning equipment and eco-friendly solutions to deep clean your upholstery, leaving it refreshed and sparkling. By choosing our services, you can ensure a thorough cleaning with the utmost care and precision.
