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How to remove the most common upholstery stains | Iconic Carpet & Upholstery
- nic2437
- Aug 26, 2024
- 3 min read
Upholstered furniture is in every home. From your family couch to dining room chairs, comfort and style is key when picking out what you sit on throughout the day. But with beauty comes pain or in this case, stains. Whether it’s an accidental spill or regular use, knowing how to tackle these common stains can help with the longevity of your furniture.
Here are the top stains we most commonly see and expert tips on how to remove them:
Coffee Stains
We all love that morning cup of coffee, but sometimes it loves our upholstery a little too much. Coffee stains can be tricky because they can quickly set in and leave a noticeable mark.
How to Remove It:
Blot Immediately: As soon as the spill happens, blot the area with a clean, dry cloth to soak up as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain.
Mix a Cleaning Solution: Combine a teaspoon of Dawn dish soap with a cup of warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stained area.
Rinse: After the stain begins to lift, blot the area with a cloth dipped in plain water to remove any soapy residue.
Dry: Pat the area dry with a clean towel and let it air dry.
Red Wine Stains
Red wine is infamous for leaving deep, stubborn stains on upholstery. It’s important to act fast to prevent the stain from becoming permanent.
How to Remove It:
Blot, Don’t Rub: Start by blotting up as much wine as possible with a clean cloth. Remember, rubbing can cause the stain to spread.
Mix a Cleaning Solution: Combine a teaspoon of Dawn dish soap with a cup of warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stained area. You can also follow up with a vinegar rinse.
Use Baking Soda: After applying the vinegar solution, sprinkle baking soda over the area. The baking soda will help absorb the stain. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then vacuum it up.
Rinse and Dry: Blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue, then dry with a towel.
Pet Stains
Our furry friends bring joy, but they can also bring unwelcome stains to our upholstery. Pet stains can be particularly challenging due to the odors they leave behind.
How to Remove It:
Blot the Area: For fresh stains, blot up as much of the mess as possible with paper towels or a clean cloth.
Use an Enzymatic Cleaner: Enzymatic cleaners are specially designed to break down the proteins in pet stains, eliminating both the stain and the odor. Follow the product instructions carefully, ensuring the cleaner fully saturates the stained area.
Blot and Rinse: After the enzymatic cleaner has done its job, blot the area with a clean cloth. Rinse with a damp cloth to remove any remaining cleaner.
Dry Completely: It’s essential to dry the area thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew. Use a towel to absorb as much moisture as possible and then allow it to air dry.
Grease Stains
Grease stains can come from a variety of sources, like food, hair products, or even skin oils. These stains are particularly stubborn because they don’t dissolve in water.
How to Remove It:
Apply Cornstarch or Baking Soda: Sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch or baking soda over the stain. These powders work by absorbing the grease. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes, then vacuum it up.
Mix a Cleaning Solution: Combine a teaspoon of Dawn dish soap with a cup of warm water. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and gently blot the stained area. Be careful not to over-saturate the fabric.
Blot and Rinse: After working the solution into the stain, blot with a dry cloth and then use a damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.
Dry: Pat the area dry and allow it to air dry completely
Why Professional Help Might Be Necessary
While these methods can be effective for many stains, some situations require a professional touch—especially if the stains are deep-set or if the fabric is delicate. Professional upholstery cleaning services can ensure that your furniture is thoroughly cleaned without risking damage to the fabric.
