When it comes to furniture cleaning, there are many factors to consider, such as different fabrics, patterns, colors, sizes, and more. This complexity makes furniture cleaning more challenging than carpet cleaning. Unfortunately, many carpet cleaners either don't offer furniture cleaning or only provide services for a limited range of fabrics. In some cases, inexperienced cleaners may even worsen the appearance of furniture. Fortunately, the problems caused by inexperienced cleaners can often be reversed by an expert.

I have invested time and effort in acquiring the necessary training and certifications through the Carpet Cleaning Association (CCA). This enables me to provide various methods of cleaning that are tailored to different fabrics and materials. In this article, I hope to share my expertise and help homeowners and carpet cleaners understand the risks involved in cleaning furniture without proper knowledge of fabrics.

The four most common cleaning codes found on fabric furniture are W, S, WS, and X. These codes represent Wet, Solvent, Wet/Solvent, or Dry Clean Only, respectively.

Wet (W) cleaning means that steam cleaning or hot water extraction can be used to clean the furniture. Water-based cleaning agents and a clean towel can also be used to dab out spots. When cleaning, it is best to use plain white towels to avoid transferring any color dye onto the furniture.

Solvent (S) cleaning indicates that the fabric is sensitive to water, and wetting it may lead to permanent water rings or shrinkage. In such cases, it is recommended to use solvent-based cleaners. Solvents help break down oily spots and subsequently dry the area. Vacuuming the fabric after applying solvents will remove the separated soil.

Driclean (X) is designated for furniture that should only be dry cleaned. Dry cleaning involves vacuuming and brushing to remove dry soils. If your furniture is marked as driclean, you may try cleaning a small, unexposed area to test the effect on the material. However, it should be noted that shrinking, staining, or distortion of the surface pile may occur. While the manufacturer may not recommend it, the decision proceed with dry cleaning is at your own risk Sometimes, the damage by the is less noticeable than stubborn stain.

Fabric labeled WetW) and SolventS) (WS requires the use of both methods on different spots For oily areas, use solvents, while water-based cleaners are suitable for water-based spots. The recommended procedure is to start with wet cleaning methods as they tend to be effective against most stains. If that fails, resort to solvents. Alternatively, if you find solvent cleaning easier, you can prioritize it. Having options is always beneficial.

Unmarked fabrics are also common. If your furniture lacks a cleaning code marking or information, always test cleaning agents before using them. If you can identify the manufacturer, reach out to them for proper cleaning procedures. Most likely, they will provide the necessary guidance.

In all cases, my team at Axiom Floor Care possesses the knowledge and equipment to clean furniture of all classifications. Whether the fabric is natural, synthetic, or contains down filling, we have the expertise to handle the job effectively and safely.

One of our most popular services is carpet cleaning and we are well known for our deep cleaning option for heavily soiled carpets with high traffic areas that require deep scrubbing. When it comes to deep cleaning carpets, there is no better machine to do that then a good CRB duel brush machine. Now, the first step of any good deep cleaning process is inspection. Inspecting the carpet is essential and the first time that the cleaner will be able to assess the job requirements. After inspection, it is best to treat the stains and pre-spray the areas that are to be cleaned with a good pre-spray. We use an all natural and very powerful probiotic solution. In many cases, a good degreaser must be used in high traffic areas and areas were food has been spilled. We won't go into detail on all of the products and methods that we use for special situations though, it should be noted, that a good carpet cleaner has an extensive knowledge of the chemistry of stains and stain removal that can be acquired from the IICRC, CCA, and other organizations that teach and certify technicians. The next step in the process is using the deep scrubbing machine. It should be noted that the only machines that are currently approved by all major carpet manufacturers for the scrubbing of carpet are the CRB method machines. The CRB helps to release and bring to the surface all of the deep dirt and hair that has been locked into the fibers of the carpet. This dirt is trapped and cannot be removed by simply vacuuming. Using the CRB will restore the carpets fibers to the state that they were from the manufacturer bringing them back up right un-matting fibers. Next, it is time to steam the carpet. A good truck mounted unit or heated portable unit will produce approximately 240 degrees of heat. It is physically impossible to achieve a higher temperature without damaging the equipment and the carpet. So if a carpet cleaner tells you that he is using more heat, you may want to refer him to the neighbor you don't like. Next, is the dry pass. As with steam cleaning, a lot of water is produced to flush the carpet, remove soap and dirt. The dry pass will help the carpet to dry quicker, wick less, and if it drys quick there will be no possibility for mold or mildew so it will stay fresh. Last is post inspection. We like to walk every room to make sure nothing was missed and test the dryness of the carpet.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave us a comment in the comment section or call us any time. I hope you find this information helpful.

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