General Cleaning Instructions for Most Stains
Generally most stains are divided into tow major categories: water and oil based. Water based stains include items such as ketchup, mustard, wine, soft drinks, and most food stains. Oil base stains would consist of compounds such as ink stains, cake type shoe polish, and cosmetics.
Water-Base Stains
- The first step is to lightly blot the area to remove excess liquid compounds. This may be done with a paper towel or a light cotton terry.
- Using soap and water, gently rub the soiled area form side to center to avoid any halo affect.
- Rinse thoroughly with plain water to remove excess soap
- The area may be blotted with a clean towel rubbing in a gentle circular motion to maintain the suede surface or dried by using a hair dryer to quickly complete the drying process.
- Finally, buff or vacuum afterwards to maintain the original look and feel.
Oil-Base Stains
In most cases, these stains may be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution as with water base stains if the area is only lightly soiled. Case in point, a light pen mark or light shoe polish on the bottom of a recliner.
- For heavier stains, a solvent compound may need to be used. In this case any over the counter compound such as K2R upholstery cleaner, or other non-bleaching household cleaners, may be used. It would always be a good idea to spot clean an inconspicuous area first with the cleaner to make sure the fabric will not be damaged. Always follow instructions on the label of the cleaner.
- Upon final cleaning, lightly repeat steps 1-5 above with water and neutral soap to remove excess cleaner. Do not forget to buff and dry.
As a last resort, professional dry-cleaning is an option if necessary or desire.
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