Getting used furniture is not unheard of. Whether you are a vintage/antique collector or times are a little tough and you have a modest budget, most folks have experienced taking on used furniture. But no matter where you get that used furniture whether from a thrift shop, boutique, someone’s home, the principal still applies; that used furniture needs to be cleaned, disinfected, and maybe even deodorized. With that in mind, we at Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning would like to share some tips and advice on how to get the second hand furniture cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized before you bring it into your home.
Leather Upholstery Cleaning
Most upholstery can be cleaned with the below method, however, leather upholstery needs to treated differently. Wipe away any layers of debris, with a sanitizing spray, apply directly to a clean cloth. In one hand use the treated cloth to disinfect in the other hand use a dry cloth to immediately remove any residues. Finish the process with a leather upholstery conditioner.
Fabric Sofa Cleaning
1. Vacuum. With the use of the vacuum’s hose and upholstery attachments where applicable, vacuum the surface entirely, hitting the crevices and divots where dirt builds up. Removing the fine particles, soil, microbial fragments can help remove the layers of the debris and the majority of the germs and such. Vacuum front, sides, back and all 4 sides of the cushions and under the cushions.
2. Spray. Avoid removing the cushion covers, more often than not they get shrunk in the cleaning process. Leave them on the cushions and spray them down with a water based detergent; mild liquid dish soap or upholstery cleaner. Different upholstery cleaners interact with the different types of fabrics; be sure the cleaner you are using agrees with fabric you are cleaning. Always follow labels directions if you use a department store cleaner and perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area to ensure the color doesn’t dissipate or the fabric isn’t damaged.
3. Clean. After you have applied your prefer cleaner agitate it by rubbing it in the upholstery in circular patterns. Wait 5-10 minutes to allow the detergent to dissolve into the fabric and pull the soils, germs, and oils to the surface. With a clean damp cloth, wipe away the residues. If at all possible, allow the upholstery to dry in the sun; it will be fresher and dry a bit faster outside. If it needs to be brought it inside, keep good ventilation with open windows, ceiling fans or portable fans to expedite the drying process.
4. Sanitize. Using your favorite fabric friendly sanitizing spray or white vinegar, moderately spray the surface of the upholstery to kill any lingering germs or bacteria. Do not over saturate.
Frame: Whether it is wrought iron, steel, wood, or plastic, wiping them down with a disinfectant is ideal. Be sure to remove the dry layers of debris first followed by your preferred disinfectant spray on white vinegar. Wood frames should be finished with a polish or oil. Depending on the current condition.
Carpet Cleaning, Stain Removal & More in San Diego, Solana Beach, La Mesa, Mission Valley, La Jolla, Del Mar, Poway, Encinitas, Chula Vista California
When it comes to second hand furnishings, though you might find a great deal or an exciting vintage piece, you know little about its sanitation. Checking for signs of bed bugs, termites, or other pests and ensuring it is clean, sanitized and deodorized is essential before you set it up and begin using it. If you are in need of professional upholstery cleaning, contact Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning today and let our experts do the rest!
