You've recently noticed your family couch is looking a little grungey and worn. Sure, you've gone through a lot together - movie nights, sleep overs, even a crash pad for the dog.
But, now it's time for it to get a good cleaning! Who knows what "coodies" are lurking in the fibers?
So what's the best way to get the job done? Try it yourself, or hire a professional? If you're going to try the DIY route should you rent or buy an upholstery cleaning machine?
Do It Yourself
It's natural for people to want to try and save some money by doing their own cleaning and home maintenance. And what could be easier than vacuuming and cleaning the furniture?
When trying to clean your own couch first remove any cushions that aren't permanently sewn down. Vacuum up any visible dirt, pet hair, cookie crumbs, bits of cereal, broken toys, etc.
There are many cleaning solutions for upholstery you could use, and everybody has their favorite. But, many of the cleaning chemicals for carpets can be used on upholstery, too (read the label first!).
One DIY upholstery cleaning solution I've run across frequently is to make your own "whipped" detergent mixture. Recommendations vary on how to do this, but generally you make a slightly dilute solution of detergent and whip it up with a hand beater or in a blender. Apply this mixture to your fabric with a damp sponge or rag or a soft brush. After scrubbing lightly into the fabric it's wiped with a clean, damp cloth.
Also, there are many warnings about doing a test spot on an area of the couch that's out of view. That way if the chemicals react badly with the fabric it won't be in a highly visible location.
Rent or Buy?
Having a machine that's designed to extract dirt out of carpeting and upholstery for your sofa cleaning adventure will make your job a lot easier - and more effective. There's only so much dirt you can get out of furniture with a brush and damp rags.
But, the question here is really should you buy your own upholstery cleaner, or should you rent one. Fortunately, renting an upholstery or carpet cleaning machine is very common and easy to do. Most grocery stores and hardware stores have units available right near the checkout.
If you're intending to clean your couch or other furniture just once, or very rarely (maybe once a year) then renting a machine is probably the best way to go. If, however, you intend to do some deep cleaning on your furniture every few months - or you have pets and kids that regularly have "accidents" - then owning your own upholstery cleaner is definitely something to consider.
Hire a Pro
Probably the best reason to hire a professional to clean your furniture is if you really don't have the time and the couch just really needs to get cleaned (before the in-laws come over!). Also, if you have very finicky or delicate fabric (silk, wool, leather, some microfiber, etc.) then a pro is better equipped to get the job done right.
Sure, the cost may give you some sticker shock, but if the end result is some beautifully cleaned furniture that looks as good as new it just might be worth it.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. We cannot guarantee results from using this information on your own furniture.
