How To Remove Stains On Your Upholstery

A furniture cleaning professional will tell you furniture stains are inevitable and the way to keep your furniture looking good is of course to have your armchair of sofa cleaned professionally. But stains on upholstery happen all the time, whether from a spilled drink, a dropped piece of food, or an unexpected accident. Proper stain removal is crucial not only for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your furniture but also for extending its lifespan. Common types of furniture stains include coffee, juice, beer, red wine, jam, chocolate, tea, cocoa, and even gum. Each type of stain requires a specific approach to ensure effective removal without damaging the delicate fabric of your upholstery.

General Tips for Upholstery Stain Removal

When tackling upholstery stains, it’s essential to avoid mixing different cleaning products, as this can lead to adverse chemical reactions that may damage the fabric. Instead, use a cotton cloth for wiping the stained area, as it is gentle and effective. Overusing vacuum cleaners on upholstery can also be detrimental, as it may strip the fabric of its softness and flexibility over time. Therefore, it’s best to use vacuum cleaners sparingly and focus on targeted cleaning methods for stain removal.

Call Deluxe Dry Upholstery Cleaning for an appointment or to get a Free and friendly estimate 0161 768 0208

Specific Stain Removal Techniques

Coffee Stains

For coffee stains, immediate action is important. Blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Then, fill a spray bottle with tepid water. Apply the solution to the stain sparingly , then blot the area firmly with a cloth. Repeat until the stain has gone.
Allow the area to dry naturally, avoiding the use of a hairdryer, which can set the stain further into the fabric.

Juice Stains

Juice stains can be effectively removed using a solution of vinegar and ammonia. Mix equal parts of vinegar and ammonia with water, and apply the solution to the stain. Blot the area gently with a clean cloth and allow it to dry. This method helps break down the sugars in the juice, preventing them from setting into the fabric.

Beer Stains

Beer stains can be treated similarly to coffee stains. For fresh spills, use a soap and water solution to blot the stain. For older stains, prepare a mixture of one tablespoon of vinegar and half a liter of water. Apply the solution to the stain, wait a few minutes, and then rinse with clean, cool water. Allow the area to dry naturally.

Red Wine Stains

Red wine stains are notorious for their difficulty, but they can be managed with the right approach. Sprinkle salt generously over the stain and let it soak up the liquid. Once the upholstery is dry, vacuum the salt out of the fabric. This method helps absorb the wine and prevents it from setting into the fibres.

Jam or Marmalade Stains

To remove jam or marmalade stains, treat the area with a solution of soap and vinegar. After the treated area is dry, rinse it with a cotton cloth soaked in warm water. This method helps break down the sticky residue and ensures the stain is thoroughly removed.

Chocolate Stains

Chocolate stains can be tackled with a simple solution of soap and warm water. Apply the solution to the stain, gently blotting it with a cloth. Allow the area to dry naturally. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push the chocolate deeper into the fabric fibers.

Tea or Cocoa Stains

Tea and cocoa stains can be removed using a solution of water, vinegar, and washing-up liquid. Apply the solution to the stain and let it dry. This method helps break down the tannins in tea and cocoa, ensuring the stain is effectively removed.

Gum Stains

Gum stains are particularly challenging, but they can be managed with an ice pack. Place the ice pack on the gum to harden it, then scrape it off with a blunt object. To finish the cleaning process, rub some methyl alcohol on the spot where the gum was. This method ensures the gum is completely removed without damaging the fabric.

Professional Upholstery Cleaning

While DIY methods can be effective for many stains, some situations call for professional intervention. Professional dry or very low moisture cleaning is a safe and convenient option, especially for difficult stains or delicate fabrics. Deluxe Dry Furniture Cleaning Services offers high-quality, eco-friendly cleaning solutions that protect your furniture and extend its lifespan. Their experienced cleaners use top-of-the-line techniques to ensure thorough and excellent results, making them a reliable choice for maintaining your upholstery.

Call Deluxe Dry Upholstery Cleaning for an appointment or to get a Free and friendly estimate 0161 768 0208

Preventative Measures

To prevent future stains, consider using fabric stain protection products. These products form a protective barrier around the fibers of your upholstery, giving you more time to address spills before they become permanent stains. A professional upholstery cleaning company can apply the product or you can buy it yourself ( usually sold on the internet ) and apply it according to the instructions.
Regular maintenance, such as annual professional cleaning, can also help keep your furniture looking fresh and attractive. If you have pets, small children, or entertain often, you may need to clean your furniture more frequently to maintain its appearance and longevity.