Fabric
Selection
The useful
life of an upholstered piece can be increased if the
consumer follows a few simple rules. It is very
important that a fabric be chosen that is appropriate
for its intended use. For example, if velvet covers are
available in cotton, nylon and olefin, the nylon velvet
might be appropriate for a large family for use in high
traffic areas. The olefin velvet could also take heavy
use and would be an excellent choice for humid climates
where mildew is a problem. The cotton velvet has less
abrasion and soiling resistance and so might be more
appropriate for moderate activity areas.
Vacuuming
Weekly vacuuming or
light brushing helps to remove soil and prevent the
embedding of dirt or grime between fibers which can
increase abrasion and wear.
Cushion
Turning
The life of upholstered
cushions can be increased through periodic turning. The
weekly reversal of loose cushions will allow even
distribution of wear over a long periods of time.
Fabric
Protection
Fabric
protectors help to increase the useful life of an
upholstered piece by protecting fabrics from soil and
stains. Some fabric protectors are mill applied and
others can be applied in the store or at home.
A protective finish
does not eliminate the necessity of properly caring for
fabrics. It modifies the absorbency and soil removal
characteristics of a fabric. It does not put a plastic
cover on it. Loose dirt should be vacuumed and brushed
away before it becomes embedded and harder to remove.
Spills and stains should be cleaned away quickly
following manufacturer's care code instructions.
Fabric
Cleaning
Many furniture fabrics
now carry the furniture industry's cleanability code
adopted in 1969. It gives the consumer information about
the proper methods to clean specific fabrics. There are
four letters in the code, immediately followed by care
instructions. The code letters are W, S, W-S, and X.
Permanent care labels
will normally be found under the seat cushion. When spot
cleaning, it is always a good idea for consumers to
first pretest fabric for discoloration and shrinkage on
an inconspicuous part of the furniture. When overall
cleaning is required, professional cleaning will often
achieve the most satisfactory results. Never remove
cushion covers or arm caps for separate cleaning. This
may destroy the backing, cause shrinking and color
changes.
Cleanability
codes
Code "W"
To prevent overall
soil, frequent vacuuming or light brushing to remove
dust and grime is recommended. Spot clean, using the
foam only from a water-based cleaning agent such as a
mild detergent or non-solvent upholstery shampoo
product. Apply foam with a soft brush in a circular
motion. Vacuum when dry. Pretest a small area before
proceeding. Use a professional furniture cleaning
service when an overall soiled condition has been
reached.
Code "S"
To prevent overall
soil, frequent vacuuming or light brushing to remove
dust and grime is recommended. Spot clean using a mild
water-free solvent or dry cleaning product containing
carbon tetrachloride which is highly toxic. Pretest a
small area before proceeding. Cleaning by a professional
cleaning service only is recommended.
Code "W-S"
To prevent overall
soil, frequent vacuuming or light brushing to remove
dust and grime is recommended. Spot clean, with a mild
solvent, an upholstery shampoo, or the foam from a mild
detergent. When using a solvent or dry cleaning product,
follow instructions carefully and clean only in a well
ventilated room. Avoid any product which contains carbon
tetrachloride which is highly toxic. With either method,
pretest a small area before proceeding. Use a
professional furniture cleaning service when an overall
soiled condition has been reached.
Code "X"
Clean this fabric only
by vacuuming or light brushing to prevent accumulation
of dust or grime. Water-based foam cleaners or solvent
based cleaning agents of any kind may cause excessive
shrinking, staining or distortion of the surface pile
and, therefore, should not be used.
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