how to clean upholstered chair arms

Upholstered chairs are comfortable and stylish, but daily use leads to dirt, grime, and stains. Chair arms are particularly vulnerable to these pollutants. Fortunately, keeping upholstered chair arms clean is not a difficult task. In this article, we will guide you on how to clean upholstered chair arms effectively.

Prepare the cleaning solution

Before you start to clean, make sure to select the right cleaning solution for your chair arms. Different cleaning solutions have different effectiveness on different fabrics. For example, a mild soap solution is suitable for synthetic fabrics, while natural fabrics require a more delicate solvent. To prepare the cleaning solution, mix warm water and your selected solvent in a spray bottle. The proportion should be one part solvent to three parts water. Shake the bottle well to mix the solution.

Spot cleaning

Upholstered chair arms typically accumulate spots and stains over time. If you notice any spots on your chair arm, use a white cloth or sponge to blot the affected area. Do not rub it forcefully, or you will damage the fabric. Instead, gently dab the spot until it fades away. If the spot persists, spray the cleaning solution on it and blot it again. Repeat the process until the spot disappears.

Deep cleaning

Deep cleaning is necessary when the chair arm has accumulated dirt, sweat, and body oil. Start by vacuuming the armrest to remove loose dirt and dust particles. Then, spray the cleaning solution on the chair arm using the spray bottle. Make sure to cover the entire armrest with the solution. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to break down the grease and dirt. After that, use a soft bristle brush to scrub the armrest gently. Be cautious not to scrub too hard, or you may damage the fabric. Finally, rinse the armrest with warm water and blot it dry with a dry cloth.

Preventive maintenance

To keep your chair arm clean and in good condition, you should conduct preventive maintenance regularly. One way to do that is to use armrest covers or throws. They protect the upholstery from dirt, grime, and sweat. Another way is to place a cushion on the armrest. This reduces the contact between the armrest and your skin, which minimizes the amount of sweat and body oil transferred to the fabric.

Conclusion

Upholstered chair arms are prone to dirt, grime, and stains due to their constant use. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can keep your chair arms clean and looking new. It is essential to use the right cleaning solution, spot clean when necessary, deep clean regularly, and engage in preventive maintenance. With proper care, your upholstered chair will last for years to come.