The fiber density of microfiber furniture makes them stain-resistant, and lets the majority of dirt and debris be easily brushed loose. Give it a brushing before you vacuum. [1] X Research source
W means: Use water-based detergent. S means: Clean with a water-free product, like dry cleaning solvent. WS means: Either a water-based cleaner or a water-free cleaner is appropriate. X means: Professionally cleaning only, though feel free to vacuum it. Keep this is in mind when purchasing furniture.
Always start with the mildest cleaning solution, then use a stronger cleaner if the dirt or stain remains. If mild soap doesn’t work, you can use vinegar.
Equal parts lemon juice and cream of tarter is an ideal spot cleaner for white or beige furniture. Rub the mixture into the stain, and let it sit. After 10 minutes, wipe any residue away with a clean cloth. Rubbing alcohol, applied by cotton swab, works wonders for ink stains and mildew. Work it in, and then dry the area with hot air from a blow dryer. [6] X Research source
As another option, apply a leather cream to your furniture after you clean it to re-moisturize the leather.
Keep leather furniture at least two feet away from heat sources in your home. Constant exposure can cause the leather to crack and age. [9] X Research source
As a general rule for cleaning wood furniture: don’t use much water, and when you do, don’t leave it on the table for long. Water can cause the wood to warp and crack.
Try mild soap and water before you use other cleaning products, as it’s gentler. If the dirt or stains remain, clean the wood with mineral spirits.
Though safe for most wooden furniture, you should test an inconspicuous area (like an underside, or chair leg) to make sure your furniture doesn’t react poorly to the cleaner.
As an alternative, commercial furniture oil is available for this same purpose.
Using steel wool might sound severe, but the finish on most wooden furniture is thick enough to protect the wood itself from damage.
Similarly, if something gets stuck to your furniture, don’t use a solvent to remove it. Wet cloth and specifically designed cleaners only!
Products designed to clean plastic are the only cleaners that should be used on acrylic furniture.
For tough-to-remove dust, try using a soft paintbrush. For tough-to-reach dust, employ a toothbrush. [18] X Research source
Ensure you’re in a well-ventilated area before mixing chemicals, and use gloves when handling ammonia. Do not lean over the bucket. Bleach-free is important here. Ammonia and bleach together produces incredibly toxic fumes. [19] X Research source If you ever feel light-headed or nauseous while mixing your cleaners, get fresh air immediately. Wicker furniture should always be handled delicately, even during cleaning. Stiff brushes (and anything more abrasive) can cause extensive damage to your furniture and require the intervention of a professional. [20] X Research source For paper and grass wicker furniture, you can forgo the cleaning agents and simply wipe the pieces down with a damp cloth. [21] X Research source Wicker furniture only needs this thorough cleaning once or twice a year. [22] X Research source
Wicker furniture must always be thoroughly dried, and care should be taken to avoid saturating it with water while cleaning. [23] X Research source Never sit on wicker that isn’t dry. Wicker furniture should not, however, spend the entirety of its time in the sun. Chairs and tables that spend a lot of time in the sun should be rotated throughout the year to prevent the material from splitting.
If you do live in the desert, though, give your wicker an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth. Dry climes can, like direct sunlight, cause wicker to crack without proper care.
