Cleaning furniture is a task the purpose of which may seem to be simple, but it’s actually much more important than it may seem at first glance. Aside from preserving the beauty of the piece, it can also increase its lifespan, while keeping you happier, healthier, and dust-free. It may seem like a g reat undertaking, but if you organise your tasks well, you can keep your furniture clean and neat for as long as you like.
The first problem you may face is when you possess any upholstered furniture. You can begin by vacuuming it – the vacuum cleaner provides a nice reach and can easily pick up any dust and dirt lying within the creases upholstered furniture. Check any tags for additional guidance, as some pieces of furniture may require the use of a specific detergent, while another type will ruin it. You can create a simple yet effective water-based cleaner at home by using dishwashing liquid – this can help you easily get rid of nastier stains, just test it out on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t leave a stain of its own.
Leather furniture works similarly to upholstered pieces, so start by vacuuming up every nook and cranny to collect any dust and dirt. Then, mix equal parts vinegar and water to create a potent cleaning mixture. Dampen – don’t soak – a rag and wipe it all down, all the while rinsing the rag out so as to avoid spreading dirt, and then wipe it all with a dry cloth. You can use a mixture of vinegar and linseed oil to nourish the leather.
Before you get to cleaning your wood furniture, find out what finish was used for it, as that determines what cleaning product you should use. If you’re unsure, start with a mild cleaner, and progressivesly move to stronger methods if it doesn’t react. A general rule to remember is to not use too much water, and when you do, don’t leave it on the wood for too long, as that can seriously damage your furniture. After that, use a clean cloth to wipe all the dust and loose dirt from the wood, and later apply mineral spirits to get rid of any grime accumulated over time.
