Cleaning Upholstered Furniture

Vacuum regularly with upholstery attachment tools to dislodge dust from flat surfaces, including cushions, and the pointed crevice tool to reach the inner comers. Turn over loose seat and back cushions and throw pillows every few weeks to distribute the wear evenly. Unless they have washable slipcovers, never remove and wash cushion covers. It's best to add a readymade cushion cover that you can periodically wash.

It best to but "washable" slip covers, or else you'll have to get them dry-cleaned every time. The arms and backs of washable slipcovers will probably pick up to most soil. If necessary, try pretreating these areas after removing the slipcover from the furniture but before washing. With a hand mixer, mix quarter cup liquied dtergent in one cup of water until it foams up.

Spread the suds over the soiled area and gently rub them into the fabric. When you see dirt lifting, scrape off the dirty suds with a spatula.

Repeat if necessary.