First of all, you should choose a cleaning solution that will not harm the fabric of your chair cushions. If you are unsure, you can always test a small portion on an inconspicuous area first. After you have decided on the solution, use a rubber scraper or soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the affected area. After cleaning, allow the cushion to air dry.
Pre-treat cushion covers with a water and baking soda paste
Pre-treating your chair cushion covers with a water and baking-soda paste can help to remove some common stains. While some stains can be removed with water alone, others need to be treated with a stain remover. You should always dilute the stain remover before applying it to your cushion cover. The solution should not be too soapy, or else it may cause further damage.
First, wash the cushion covers with lukewarm water. You can also use a sponge or a brush to clean them. When you’re finished, rinse them thoroughly with clean water. Afterward, use a hose to rinse off the soap. If the upholstery has been damp for a long time, consider hanging the cushions or propping them to air-dry them.
Pre-treating your cushion covers with a water and baking soda mixture will also prevent mould and mildew from forming. However, you should avoid using bleach on them. The best way to prevent mould and mildew is to protect the upholstery from spills and moisture.
The baking soda paste is also effective in removing foul odors from your cushion covers. It works by removing germs that cause stains. While it won’t completely restore the original shape of the cushion cover, the paste should kill any bacteria that may be causing the foul smell.
Avoid drying them in the dryer
When cleaning chair cushions, avoid putting them in the dryer. The warm heat and dry air can degrade the latex fill. To clean these cushions properly, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It is best to clean them outdoors, but if you have to, you can do it indoors.
If you can’t hang your cushions to dry, you can use direct sunlight. This will help speed up the drying process. During cold weather, however, a cushion will take longer to dry. It will also be vulnerable to additional rain, which will also damage it. Another option is to use a blow dryer. However, you should keep in mind that this method requires constant monitoring. If you leave it unattended, it can cause a fire. In addition, you can use a standing fan to speed up the drying process. However, make sure that the fan hits the cushion directly so that it will help the fabric breathe.
When cleaning foam cushions, use a gentle detergent. Be sure to avoid using bleach on them, as bleach can irritate sensitive skin. You can also clean them by using a solution of 1 tablespoon dish detergent and 1/4 cup Borax ($6, Target) or a cleaning solution. You can then use a brush to scrub the stained area. After applying the cleaning solution, rinse the cushions thoroughly. Do not use a pressure washer, as this could ruin the fabric.
When drying chair cushions, always remember to avoid the dryer if you can. This is particularly important for foam cushions, as they take longer to dry. This is because they are especially absorbent. If you are unable to dry the cushions completely, you may have to keep them in the dryer for several hours. Even then, if you do get your hands on a wet cushion, you will have to wait until the cushion is completely dry.
Avoid cleaning stains with enzyme cleaners
Enzyme cleaners are a great solution to avoid stains on chair cushions, but there are a few important precautions you should follow. For one, make sure to use a low-pressure hose to apply the cleaning solution. For another, make sure to spray the couch with the enzyme cleaner twice to allow the enzyme to penetrate the couch’s fibers.
Another option is to use a solution of water and vinegar. Vinegar has disinfecting properties that target bacteria and mold spores. You should leave the solution on the cushion for at least 15 minutes to ensure that it is effective. However, you should be aware that a vinegar solution will not remove 100% of stains.
A solution made from one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid and two to three tablespoons of white vinegar will do the job. You can even use a hose to remove excess soap. Once you’re done, let the cushions air-dry. You don’t want to use a pressure washer because it can damage the fabric of the cushion.
If you’re worried about staining latex foam, you can try a natural stain remover. If the stains are too stubborn for this, apply a mixture of water and detergent and use a toothbrush to scrub the affected area. Repeat the process if necessary. If the stain still remains after this, apply a hand sanitiser with a high alcohol content. Leave the solution on the stained area for two to five minutes before wiping it clean.
