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A critical though often neglected responsibility of upholstery owners is routine maintenance. Care must begin when the upholstery is first put into service. The following guidelines were written to assist consumers in maintaining upholstered fabrics. [Note: Ad or content links featured on this page are not necessarily affiliated with IICRC (The cleantrust) and should not be considered a recommendation or endorsement by IICRC (The cleantrust)].
Controlling Soil
Upholstered furniture is more susceptible to soiling on arms and seat cushions, as well as the upper inside back, head-rests, pillows and skirt areas. Using arm covers and rotating seat cushions frequently prolongs fabric life and appearance.
Dry Soil Removal
Vacuuming and, depending on fabric durability and construction, brushing upholstery routinely is recommended to remove dust and particle soil. This enhances appearance and prolongs fabric life. Equally important, the soil that is vacuumed from the fabric must not be allowed to re-enter the air within the structure, possibly contributing to indoor environmental pollution (IEP).
Immediate Spotting
Many spots or spills can be removed easily if the excess is scooped up or blotted and treated immediately with plain water or neutral spotters. If ignored, these spots, or components thereof, may bond to fibers, possibly causing permanent stains. Immediate spot cleaning is essential. Extreme caution must be observed when spotting leather or "dry-clean-only" fabrics.
Cleaning Frequency
Every 12 to 24 months, professionally clean upholstered furniture and fabrics subjected to routine use. Increased cleaning frequency may be required when fabric is subjected to heavy use, or when it is located in homes occupied by persons with allergies or respiratory sensitivity. Develop specialized maintenance and cleaning programs based on individual needs.
Furniture and fabric manufacturers recommend that consumers not wait until severe soiling occurs before cleaning. The greater the soiling, the less the likelihood of restoring the original color, appearance, and texture of the fabric, and the greater the adverse affect on indoor environmental quality (IEQ).
SELECTING A PROFESSIONAL CLEANING FIRM
The IICRC and associated industry affiliates submit the following criteria to help identify reliable cleaning firms. Although this selection guide is not fail-safe, firms that comply with these criteria usually provide quality service:
1. Insurance, Licensing, Taxes — Firms should carry adequate business and liability insurance for consumer protection. They comply with the licensing requirements of local, state, provincial, and federal authorities. They collect, report, and pay appropriate licensing fees and taxes.
2. Ongoing Training — Cleaning firms should require management and employees to engage in formal, on-going training, providing them with the latest industry technologies and techniques.
3. Certified Technicians — Firms should have technicians on staff who are specifically trained in cleaning upholstery fabrics and who are certified.
4. Experience — The years of experience a firm has, combined with formal training programs, may contribute significantly to the proficiency of its employees.
5. Inspections, Pricing — Firms should offer estimating, consulting, and precleaning inspections. After inspections, customers are provided with firm prices for cleaning services.
6. References — Firms should be willing, when requested, to provide the customer with references.
7. Trade Associations — Cleaning firms are members of international, national or regional trade associations, which encourage high ethical standards and promote continuing education.
8. Customer Courtesy — Firms should provide value-oriented service including, but not necessarily limited to: courteous personnel, quick and comprehensive complaint handling, and appropriate recommendations for additional services, such as protective treatments, repair, and deodorization.
9. Product Safety — Firms should use environmentally friendly products and cleaning techniques that are effective and safe for the fibers, fabrics, people and pets they encounter.
Locate a cleantrust-Certified professional or firm by consulting the directory at www.certifiedcleaners.org.
Source: The IICRC Reference Guide for Professional Upholstery Cleaning (The IICRC S300)
