Maintenance for Furniture (Part II)

GENERALLY ABOUT FURNITURE TEXTILES

Dirt and dust that remains in the fabric helps to break down the fabric fibers and contributes greatly to shorten the life of the fabric. Regular (weekly) vacuuming with a soft brush inhibits degradation and is essential for the textile to achieve longevity. Important maintenance factors are: 1) main cleaning, 2) stain removal, 3) control of color fastness and precautions for upholstery fabrics.

MAINTENANCE FACTORS

1. Main cleaning:

Begin to clean the fabric as soon as you see that regular vacuuming and dusting is no longer enough. For the main cleaning foaming cleanser is recommended. Contact the furniture retailer for guidance. How frequently this should be done depends on the furniture usage, but the parts of the furniture that comes in contact with the skin should be cleaned at least once every three months. 

2. Stain removal:

When an accident happens, it is important to remove the spill / stain as quickly as possible. A new spot can be easier to remove than old. If you get a stain that you are unsure of how to remove, you should contact the furniture retailer. For removal of stains you should avoid common household cleaners because many of them are too harsh for the fabric, and ALL other products containing solvents or oil, as they can damage fabrics. 

3. Control of color fastness:

By main cleaning and stain removal, you should always check that the fabric dyes can withstand the detergent you use. Test the dergent first on an invisible spot. Leave to dry and check the result.

Natural fiber - fabrics made of natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, or the artificial rayon are very comfortable because they breathe and absorb perspiration. These textiles are hydrophilic - draws and absorbs water and anything that contains water. The fabrics are also oleophilic - absorbing oil and grease, eg. fatty acids from sweat.

Synthetic fibers - fabrics made ​​of synthetic fibers such as polyester, polyamide, acrylic, has outstanding mechanical resistance. These fabrics are hydrophobic - repels water and other liquids. Stains from spilled liquids and water-based products are not absorbed by the fibers, and these spots are thus easier to remove. The fibers are however oleophilic - attracts oil and grease..

Mixing fibers - fabrics made ​​of mixed fibers - different combinations of natural, artificial and synthetic fibers, are highly resistant to stains and superb comfort.

4. Precautions for upholstery fabrics:

The main considerations you should take for your furniture: Cleaning, lightfastness, avoid injuries, furniture fabric's lifetime and pets.

Lightfastness - A lot of furniture is destroyed unnecessarily by the interaction of sunlight. Remember that all exposure to light will weaken both the fibers and dyes in textiles. Although the furniture textiles are tested and approved for lightfastness, is should be located so that direct sunlight and sharp reflexes are avoided. Shades or blinds are recommended, but be also aware that not all fabrics in blinds or curtains stop harmful UV rays. It is important to remember that the sun shines into the room even when we are not present! Especially the "low" sun at our latitude goes far into the room - all day. If you are going away for a longer while, the furniture should be covered specifically. Ask your furniture retailer how to best protect your furniture so they do not degrade unnecessarily  by sunlight.

How to avoid damage to furniture fabrics - Clothing with extremely rough seams or sharp details like rivets, or belts with metal fittings, increases wear and can pull out threads. Denim - particularly new, and clothing with excess dye, can cause discoloration. Objects or tools in pockets can damage the upholstery fabric.

Fabric lifetime - Lack of care and maintenance reduces fabric life. If the furniture is used extremely much every day, it is recommended with covers and protective sleeves (this can be ordered for most furniture).

Pets - Pets and upholstered furniture do not mix. Hair, nails and scraping tugs hard on the fabric. Four-legged family members should be in their basket, not in the furniture.