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Dispelling 5 Upholstery Cleaning Myths

With the difficulty in completing expert-level upholstery cleaning, a number of myths have surfaced around the subject. These myths lead many homeowners to choosing cleaning services and solutions that are simply not suited to their unique upholstery cleaning needs. And so we thought it’s important to highlight 5 common upholstery myths, to ensure Vancouver and lower mainland homeowners achieve the best possible result when choosing expert cleaning companies.

5 Upholstery Cleaning Myths

1. Ultrasonic Cleaning Is Always Completely Successful

Many homeowners are now turning to cutting-edge cleaning techniques to resolve their unique cleaning needs for drapes, blinds and furniture. But unfortunately, they might be setting themselves up for significant repair costs later down the line. That’s because these techniques, including ultrasonic cleaning, have been found to be significantly damaging to fabric. Drapery especially is comprised of delicate materials and requires a cleaning service that is gentle and precise. Using ultrasonic cleaning and similar cleaning methods can limit the lifetime performance of upholstery.

2. White Vinegar can be Used to Treated Upholstery Stains

This is a common myth and often tried by those who have little time to have their drapes and furniture professionally cleaned. The difficulty is that vinegar is an acid on the pH scale and, although the stain might have been removed, there is a strong possibility that the fabric treated with the white vinegar will lose its original colour. It’s important to speak with a specialist before trying a quick home remedy that can cause lasting damage to property.

3. Bleach is the Ideal All-Purpose Cleaner

Bleach is often thought of as the leading solution for any type of home cleaning work. And that’s why many Vancouver residents try to use bleach during home upholstery cleaning work. The problem is that bleach will not only remove any colouring within the fabric, but also burn some of the upholstery fibers, likely permanent staining the material. For this the reasons it’s so important to check with experts before using any bleach products.

4. Dry Cleaning is Always the Safest Choice

Dry cleaning with solvents is often chosen as a solution by those who want to avoid liquid products that can damage their upholstery. But dry cleaning can cause colour bleeding within certain types of upholstery materials. Only an expert can say whether a particular type of material is suitable for dry cleaning.

5. Hot Water Should Be Used for Every Cleaning Job

Hot water is likely the best choice for most home cleaning work.  Most materials release soiling stains when hot water and cleaning agents are applied. But it’s important to note that some non-colour fast fabrics can suffer colour-bleeding when hot water is used to clean them. Velvet products, too, can be distorted by the use of water that is too hot.

By working with proven professionals and getting answers to their questions, homeowners across Vancouver and the lower mainland can ensure their home areas don’t fall victim to common upholstery cleaning myths. To have your questions answered by a trusted expert immediately, contact the team at Malkin Cleaners today via 604-970-9052.