Essential Tips to Care for Your Upholstery and Make It Last – From Leon Custom Upholstery

Your furniture is an investment, and at Leon Custom Upholstery, we believe that with the right care, it can last for many years to come. Whether it’s a beloved couch, a cozy armchair, or custom-made cushions, properly maintaining your upholstery ensures that your pieces continue to look great and feel comfortable. In this blog post, we’ll share some essential tips on how to care for your upholstery, so you can enjoy your furniture for years without worrying about wear and tear.

Regular Cleaning Is Key

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain your upholstery is by regularly cleaning it. Dust, dirt, and oils from your skin can accumulate on the fabric, causing it to look worn or fade over time.

Tip:

• Vacuum your upholstery weekly using a soft brush attachment. This will help remove any dust or dirt from the fabric without causing damage. Be sure to get into the crevices and corners where debris tends to gather.

• For fabrics like leather, use a damp cloth to wipe down the surface. Always dry the material thoroughly afterward to avoid water damage.

Act Fast on Spills and Stains

Life happens, and spills are inevitable. Whether it’s coffee, wine, or your pet’s accidental mess, it’s important to act quickly to prevent stains from setting in.

Tip:

• Blot, don’t rub. Immediately blot the stain with a clean, white cloth to absorb the liquid. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can push it deeper into the fabric.

• For fabric upholstery, check the manufacturer’s instructions on stain removal. Most upholstery can be cleaned with a gentle fabric cleaner, but always test a small, hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the material.

• For leather or synthetic leather upholstery, use a mild soap and water solution to wipe the surface. Follow up with a leather conditioner to keep the material soft and supple.

Rotate Cushions and Pillows Regularly

Over time, the cushions on your furniture can lose their shape and comfort. This can be prevented by regularly rotating and fluffing them if your pieces allow for this, if your cushions are attached to the frame this is something that cannot be done.

Tip:

• Rotate your cushions and pillows every few months to ensure they wear evenly. This is especially important for seat cushions, which can flatten due to constant use.

• Fluff the cushions by gently pressing them into their original shape. This helps maintain their structure and keeps them looking full.

Keep Your Upholstery Out of Direct Sunlight

Although sunlight can brighten up a room, it can also have a negative effect on your upholstery. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fabrics to fade and weaken, especially delicate materials, unless you opt for a Sunbrella indoor/outdoor fabric option or a fabric that’s specifically made to withstand the rays of the sun.

Tip:

• Try to position your furniture away from direct sunlight. If this isn’t possible, consider using window treatments like curtains or blinds to limit the exposure.

• UV-protective sprays are available for some fabrics and can help reduce fading caused by the sun.

Protect Your Upholstery from Pets and Children

We all love our pets and kids, but they can sometimes be tough on furniture. From claws that can tear fabric to spills that are hard to clean, pets and kids can leave their mark on your upholstery.

Tip:

• Consider investing in slipcovers or pet-friendly fabrics that are easy to remove and wash. There are also specialized pet-friendly upholstery options that resist fur and have stain resistance and are easy to clean.

• Regularly trim your pet’s nails to prevent them from scratching and damaging the upholstery.

• If possible, establish areas where pets and children can sit or play without touching the furniture to reduce the amount of wear and tear.

Professional Cleaning and Maintenance

While regular cleaning and maintenance will go a long way, sometimes your upholstery needs a deep clean. Professional cleaning services can remove embedded dirt, allergens, and stains that regular cleaning may not address. Always check and make sure what the manufacturers cleaning recommendations are for your upholstery, some fabrics are not recommended to use professional cleaning devices, while others may be safe for dry cleaning etc.

Tip:

• Have your upholstery professionally cleaned every 1-2 years, depending on the amount of use it gets. Professional cleaners (Dry Cleaning etc) have the tools and expertise to handle delicate fabrics and deep cleaning.

 Repair Damage Promptly

If your upholstery gets torn, stretched, or damaged in any way, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage, while not all damage can be easily repaired, its always best to contact Leon Custom Upholstery to see what your options are.

Tip:

• Small tears or holes can be repaired with the help of a professional upholsterer. At Leon Custom Upholstery, we offer service options that can help restore your favorite furniture to its original condition.

• Prompt repairs not only improve the appearance of your furniture but also help maintain its durability.

Choose the Right Fabric for Your Lifestyle

When selecting upholstery for your furniture, consider your lifestyle and how much use the furniture will get. Some fabrics are more durable and easier to maintain than others.

Tip:

• If you have young children or pets, consider durable fabrics like microfiber, leather, or performance fabrics, which are stain-resistant and easy to clean.

• For less-traveled areas, like a formal living room, you might opt for delicate fabrics like velvet or silk.

Caring for your upholstery doesn’t have to be difficult – with a little effort, you can ensure that your furniture stays beautiful and functional for years to come. Regular cleaning, quick action on spills, and periodic professional care are all great ways to keep your furniture looking its best.

At Leon Custom Upholstery, we specialize in high-quality reupholstery services that bring new life to your furniture. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a modern piece that needs a refresh, we’re here to help you maintain your investment. If you’re ready to give your furniture a makeover or need expert advice on how to care for your upholstery, don’t hesitate to contact us!