How to Clean Upholstered Chairs Naturally at Home?

Noticing dirt and dust accumulation on your upholstered chair is not a pleasant sight. So, if you’re looking to clean the chair, you can clean it naturally without the help of a professional. It can save you on cleaning costs. Additionally, you don’t have to use harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the fabric over time. This is because there are several easy-to-use, safe, and effective ways to clean the upholstered chairs.

The items such as vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, etc., are available in your kitchen, which can be used to clean the chairs. In this blog, you can explore several natural ways to clean your upholstered furniture and remove stains.

Natural Ways to Clean Upholstered Chairs

With the rising trend of sustainability, homeowners are looking for natural ways to clean upholstery. So, here are a few natural ways to clean your upholstered chairs -

Baking Soda to Freshen Up

Baking soda is easily available in any kitchen, and it is one of the best ways to freshen up an upholstered chair.  Here’s how to do it -

• Mix 15 grams of baking soda with 5-6 drops of essential oil.

• Sprinkle the mixture evenly on the fabric.

• If the chair has a strong odor, it is advisable to leave it overnight. However, if the smell is mild, you can leave it for about 20 minutes.

• Next, vacuum with the upholstery attachment.

Vinegar for Spot Cleaning

Once your chair smells incredible, consider removing the stains. You can use white vinegar and warm water to do so, and here’s the method to do so -

• Add white vinegar with warm water in a 1:2 ratio and add 1 tablespoon of detergent.

• Pour the solution into a spray bottle and mix it well to ensure the solution is properly combined.

• Spray the solution on it, and leave it for some time. Don’t soak the fabric in the solution, as it can leave water stains once the fabric dries. Also, excess water can seep into the fabric and damage it.

• Dab in with a microfiber towel in a light motion. Be gentle to avoid damage to the upholstery.

• If required, spray again and repeat the process.

If the stains are too stubborn, consider adding some baking soda to make the solution more abrasive. If the fabric can handle more coarse-grained paste, scrub it again to remove the stains. But ensure to test the vinegar solution and baking soda paste in an insignificant corner of the upholstery. This will help understand if the fabric can sustain such abrasive solutions.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Natural Dish Soap for Brightening

Hydrogen peroxide (3%) is a natural alternative to bleach, and natural dish soap cuts through the dirt and greasy grime. They are available in every home. The mixture can brighten the fabric well and also reduce the use of soap. Here’s how you can make it -

• Mix hydrogen peroxide (3%) and natural dish soap.

• Pour it into the spray bottle and shake it well.

• Spray on the upholstery until the fabric is soaked.

• Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes.

• Use a brush or rag to scrub the dirt in circular motions.

• Lastly, spray water to clean the solution off and vacuum it dry.

Essential Oils for a Fresh Smell

Though using vinegar or rubbing alcohol to eliminate the foul smell from the upholstered chair leaves behind an odor, these scents can go away within a few days. Hence, it is recommended to use essential oils to ensure the pleasant smell lingers longer.

Most homeowners love citrus oils as they smell fresh and are considered a good disinfectant. However, if you’re looking for something soothing, try lavender essential oils. Rosemary and lemongrass essential oils also work well.

Lemon Juice for Eliminating Molds

Lemon juice has been used for ages to effectively clean upholstered furniture. It also kills mold and cuts through the grease. So, when you’re cleaning your upholstered chairs and looking for natural ways, consider using lemon for a fresh and streak-free shine. Some even suggest that using vinegar with lemon juice can reduce mold growth and clean the stains, leaving a clean and refreshed smell behind.

Can You Steam Clean Upholstered Chairs?

Steaming is considered a great option for deep cleaning fabric chairs and sofas. This process uses high-temperature steam to remove dirt and sanitize the upholstery without using abrasive solutions. Though it is considered effective, you must exercise precaution and ensure to steam clean carefully -

• Check the type of fabric, as velvet and silk can get damaged by steam. Check the label on the fabric to ensure it can be cleaned by steam.

• Ensure you have the steam cleaner set to low to avoid soaking the fabric, as moisture may cause damage and lead to mold growth.

• After you steam clean the fabric, leave it to dry properly before using the chair again.

Steam is a safe and effective cleaning method when used correctly. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to abrasive cleaners that removes dirt, bacteria, and allergens.

Upholstery Cleaning Tips

Here are some cleaning tips to consider when cleaning upholstery chairs -

• Always spot test the cleaner at the back or under the chair, before using it on the entire surface.

• Start with small quantities of cleaner and add more as required. Using too much at a time makes it challenging to remove the extra cleaner from the fabric.

• Cover the areas that don’t need cleaning.

• If the chair can be detached, remove the parts, as this makes cleaning much easier.

• Scrub gently in a circular motion using a brush, cotton rag, or microfiber cloth.

Also, always consider vacuuming before and after cleaning the upholstered chair. Using it before cleaning gets rid of excess dirt and dust, and using it afterwards helps fluff the foam and fabric.