When you’re seeking comfort in a living room, the sofa is the most important furniture piece. But, when it gets stained or dirty due to frequent whereabouts, then it can affect the appearance of the living room. In that case, you might wonder if you must clean it on your own or seek a professional. If you have to face the dilemma at times, then read ahead. In this article, we have covered what can be better for sofa cleaning.
Understanding DIY Sofa Cleaning
When you don’t know how to clean a sofa at home, here are some steps to follow.
- Check the Label
Before you commence with the cleaning process, first check the care label. As you observe the label, you must read the instructions carefully. The instructions will also include the suitable cleaning method. You can then decide whether you have to use a solvent or simply a vacuum cleaner. - Vacuum the Sofa
Now, you have to use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt. Moreover, you have to vacuum the sofa carefully around the crevices and cushions. On the other hand, you must prefer using a handheld vacuum cleaner for dust removal. - Clean stains with great care
In case you observe some stains, then use a mild cleaning solution. To prepare the solution, you have to mix mild dishwashing soap and warm water. Later, you have to soak a cloth in the solution and blot the stains. You also need to use a clean cloth with some water to rinse. - Clean thoroughly
For intense cleaning, you have to dry clean the fabric. At those instances, you have to apply the cleaner to a cloth and gently rub the fabric. But, before dry cleaning, you have to spray a mixture of warm water and a small quantity of gentle detergent. You also have to scrub the sofa’s material in circular motions. - Use baking soda for removing odour
To remove the odour, you now have to sprinkle some baking soda on the fabric. After letting it settle on the fabric for some time, you have to clean the sofa using a vacuum cleaner. Post cleaning, you have to let the sofa dry naturally. For good air circulation, you can think about opening the windows and turning on the fans.
Eventually, you have to fluff the cushions to restore their form. However, you have to follow this step only when the sofa dries. With time, you also have to carry out routine maintenance to prevent dirt buildup. Maintaining the sofa will also increase the lifespan of the sofa’s fabric.
Drawbacks of DIY Sofa Cleaning
While DIY sofa cleaning can be cost-effective, it has many drawbacks. Let’s check the drawbacks ahead.
- Risk of Damage
In case you tend to use inappropriate cleaning solutions, then it can ruin the sofa’s fabric. For instance, if you use solutions that contain water for some fabrics, then it can lead to discoloration. Making the sofa’s fabric wet for a long time can also cause long-term damage. - Inconsistent Results
If you don’t have the expertise to clean the sofa, then stains will not be completely removed. Dirt will also be trapped in certain areas. This will impact the sofa’s overall appearance. You may not be happy with the cleaning process if the sofa looks dull. - Time Consuming
DIY upholstery cleaning can consume a lot of time. This fact is actually true because you have to move furniture and gather essential items. You will also find it inconvenient to clean the sofa if there are a lot of stains. - Stubborn Stains
Specific cleaning solutions are required to remove stains caused due to ink or oil. Hence, DIY methods may not be as effective as you think. This will lead to frustration even after you have put in a lot of effort. - No Deodorizing done professionally
Professional cleaners often use certain equipment to clean and deodorize sofas. You may not perceive the same results with household products. In contrast, DIY cleaning may not be effective in removing allergens and odours.
Understanding Professional Sofa Cleaning Services
There are many reasons why you must prefer professional sofa cleaning services.
- Firstly, the professionals have expertise in cleaning the sofa thoroughly. They also use certain equipment while proceeding with the cleaning process.
- Once the professional is busy, he will effectively remove tough stains and odors. This may not be possible with home cleaning agents or solutions.
- Apart from the above pros, professional cleaners are trained to handle delicate fabrics. Once they move on with the process, the fabric will not deteriorate in the future.
- Professional sofa cleaners often use safe cleaning solutions depending on the fabric’s texture. This reduces the likelihood of shrinkage or discolouration.
- If you hardly have the time to keep your house clean, then connect with a cleaning company in Qatar.
Comparing Costs: DIY vs. Professional
While comparing DIY methods with professional ones, DIY methods are affordable. When you manage to clean the sofa on your own, you use basic cleaning products. However, you have to spend more time to accomplish great results. On the contrary, professional cleaning services can be expensive as they offer great results. Nevertheless, you can expect a great job by the professionals at the end.
When to Choose DIY Cleaning?
Cleaning the sofa on your own is a great option when you wish to maintain the sofa often. You can also consider this option when you can’t afford professional cleaning services. DIY cleaning can also be considered when you have plenty of time by your side. But, you must hire a professional for intense cleaning and dark stains. If the sofa is made from a delicate material, then professional cleaning can also be ideal.
When to Opt for Professional Services?
At times, it may not be possible to remove stubborn stains. In that case, you must opt for professional sofa cleaning services. When the professional visits your house, he will use cleaning solutions to remove stubborn stains. He will further follow a suitable approach if the sofa is made from fabrics like silk or velvet. Additionally, if sofa cleaning seems challenging, then professional service can deliver remarkable results.
Tips for Maintaining Your Sofa Between Professional Cleanings
Now, let’s check some tips to maintain the look of a sofa. You should consider these tips between professional cleanings to enhance the sofa’s lifespan.
- Regular Vacuuming
While you’re vacuuming a sofa, ensure that you do it at least once a week. To clean the crevices well, make sure you use an upholstery attachment. - Clean stains after sudden spills
In case beverages spill suddenly, then make sure you blot the area with a clean cloth. If you ignore blotting the area immediately, then the stain will become prominent. - Avoid exposing the sofa to direct sunlight
If sunrays fall on the sofa directly, then the fabric will fade away. So, when you place the sofa in the living room, make sure you partially cover the windows with curtains. - Fluff & Plump Cushions
To prevent cushions from getting deformed, make sure you fluff and plump them regularly. Apart from maintaining comfort, this tip will also prevent sagging. - Use Slipcovers
To protect the fabric from stains, think about using slipcovers. These are easier to remove and clean with the best cleaning solution.
Conclusion
Finally, if you wish to keep your house clean, then why not contact Crestive? While our team of experts offers cleaning services in Qatar, we ensure to use the latest techniques. We also adhere to safety protocols while following a certain approach. As we move ahead with a service plan, we always maintain industry standards.
FAQs
1. Is professional upholstery cleaning better than doing it yourself?
Professional sofa cleaning is often more effective than DIY methods. This is because the experts use specialized equipment and cleaning solutions. Once they commence with the cleaning, they also handle delicate fabrics with great care. Ultimately, you must opt for professional services when you want to get the sofa cleaned thoroughly.
2. Is it worth getting a sofa professionally cleaned?
As sofas are prone to constant wear and tear, it’s better to hire a professional. Regardless of the approach that he uses, he will be capable of retaining its texture and appearance. But, the sofa needs to be cleaned properly with appropriate supplies.
3. How often should you professionally clean your sofa?
As per experts, it’s always better to clean the sofa once every six months. But, before considering professional sofa cleaning services, it can depend on the use of the sofa. In case you have pets at home, then you must clean the sofa more than once a year.
4. What is the best way to clean a fabric sofa?
The best way to clean a sofa will depend on the fabric’s type. The cleaning approach can also be determined depending on the extent to which it’s dirty. But, if you’re going to clean the sofa often, then use a vacuum cleaner. A mild detergent can also help to clean the stains at the next moment.