When a fabric chair has a non-removable cover and therefore cannot be put in the washing machine, it is always tricky to know how to remove a stain! Indeed, the last thing we want when removing stains is to damage the seat and leave a mark on this type of textile. So, how do you clean your fabric chair and remove stains successfully? Grandma gives you all the secrets to removing dirt.
Know how to clean your fabric chair
Taking precautions will help you avoid leaving marks on the seat. To avoid making a mistake, it is therefore crucial to know the type of fabric that covers the chairs (cotton fabric, linen, velvet, synthetic textiles, etc.). Fortunately, the label on the seat can often provide you with valuable information. Very often, the manufacturer indicates what type of treatment to use and which ones to avoid. For fabric maintenance, remember that:
-The “W” is simply the symbol for water, indicating that you can carry out a water treatment.
-As for the “P”, it is the symbol for solvents/detergents. This indicates that you can use a cleaning detergent on your seat fabric.
-Finally, there is the W/P, a pictogram which indicates that you can use water as well as a stain remover.
Sometimes, even when looking, the piece of furniture doesn’t have any markings on it. This may be all the more true for an old fabric chair whose label may have been erased (or may never have existed!). When in doubt, always test your detergent in an inconspicuous corner before operating on the stained area. This will allow you to spot any discoloration. And if you can’t remove stubborn stains without leaving a residue, leave it to a professional.
How to clean your fabric chair on a daily basis?
Cleaning fabric chairs should ideally be carried out regularly in order to limit the appearance of stubborn stains or diffuse dirt. This involves several techniques:
Vacuum it
Vacuuming removes dust and partially absorbs stains. We can also consider sprinkling baking soda or talcum powder on the seat, leaving it to act and vacuuming up the powder so as to neutralize bad odors and give a fresh boost to your chair or armchair. If the fabric is delicate, prefer to brush it with the brush attachment of the device.
Steam cleaning
Draw a grid with your steam cleaner so as to cover the entire seat. Then make sure to let the seat dry thoroughly before using your furniture again.
Soap for basic cleaning
Soapy water (with Marseille soap, black soap or even dishwashing liquid) can be used to wash the seat fabric. Simply spray a small amount on the surfaces to be cleaned using a sprayer (no need to soak the seat!), then rub with a sponge (non-abrasive side) or a cloth. Then, carefully pass your terry towel to absorb excess water. Finally let it dry in the open air in a well-ventilated room (for example by leaving the windows open).
How to remove a fabric chair?
In addition to simple soapy water for a lightly encrusted stain, there are different types of stain removers depending on the stains.
-L’sparkling water can be very effective against pet urine stains. This helps combat odors before using soapy water or white vinegar.
-The white vinegar is to be mixed with cold or hot water at 50-50, especially against grease stains or oil stains. Spray everything on the stain and rub with a cloth soaked in this mixture. Finish by taking care to rinse and let dry.
-The bicarbonate can be mixed with water to make a paste. Rub this on the stain, leave it on and brush it off. If necessary, dab turpentine on it if the stain persists.
-The oxygen peroxide (or hydrogen peroxide) can be used on blood, grease, tea, coffee stains, etc. On white, it ideally replaces bleach. However, it can also be used on colored fabric as long as you ensure that there is no discoloration in an inconspicuous corner. Count here two parts of water for one part of hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray and leave to act for 20 or 25 minutes before rubbing. Repeat if necessary then let dry.
-Finally, the lemon juice can be used on difficult stains (ink stains, red fruit, mustard, etc.). It can also be combined with salt against rust.