How do I remove stains on upholstery fabric?

Upholstered furniture makes our homes feel cosy and inviting, but stains are bound to happen. Spills, muddy paws, or messy meals can all leave their mark. The good news is, with a few simple techniques, you can tackle common stains and get your upholstery looking good again. This guide will show you how.

Acting Quickly: The key to successful stain removal is to act promptly. As soon as a stain occurs, begin the cleaning process to prevent it from setting into the fabric. Blot the stain gently with a clean, white cloth or paper towel, working from the outer edges towards the centre. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain and damage the fabric fibres.

Pretesting: Before applying any cleaning solution to your upholstery, it's essential to conduct a pretest in an inconspicuous area. Choose a small, hidden spot on the fabric and test the cleaning solution to ensure it doesn't cause any discolouration or damage.

General Stain Removal Techniques: a. Water-Based Stains:

• Coffee, tea, juice, and wine stains: Blot the stain with a clean cloth soaked in cold water. If the stain persists, mix a mild detergent with water, apply it to the stain, and blot again.
• Food stains: Scrape off any solid residue gently, then blot the stain with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water.
• Urine and vomit stains: Blot the area with a cloth soaked in a mixture of water and mild detergent. Follow with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, then blot again. 

Oil-Based Stains:

• Grease and oil stains: Absorb excess oil with a paper towel, then sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain to soak up the residue. After 15-20 minutes, vacuum the area and treat any remaining stain with a mild dishwashing liquid and warm water.
• Ink stains: Apply rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and dab the stain gently until it lifts. Be sure to test the alcohol on an inconspicuous area first.

Common Odour Removal:

• Pet odours: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray the solution lightly on the affected area, and blot it with a clean cloth. Repeat if necessary.
• General odour removal: Sprinkle baking soda liberally on the upholstery, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuum thoroughly.

Professional Cleaning: If your upholstery fabric is delicate or the stains are particularly stubborn, it may be wise to seek professional cleaning services. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to handle different types of stains and fabrics without causing damage. They can provide a thorough deep cleaning, leaving your upholstery refreshed and stain-free.