Within the realm of facility management, the care and preservation of upholstery stand as integral facets. The much-used upholstered furniture at home, workplace or at public areas attract more dust, grime and bacteria more than many other furniture resulting in the air getting polluted leading to illness. Lack of maintenance or improper ways of cleaning can lead to quick wear and tear, leave apart the embarrassment of exposing a unclean furniture. A holistic approach is needed to ensure the longevity of furniture and ensure health working space, say the Facility Management experts
Devi Prasad Shetty, Director, Durga Facility Management Services Pvt. Ltd advocates a systematic approach to upholstery maintenance, integrating the efficacy of chemicals, the technological prowess of specific upholstery cleaning machine, and a structured Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
To begin with, it is essential to have a basic comprehension of the various upholstery materials that are frequently seen in facilities. Knowing the unique characteristics of each material — from delicate fabrics to durable synthetics — allows for customized care plans. “Before full-scale application, it is essential to conduct a patch test on an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility with the upholstery material. Confirm that the Taski TR 101 or other upholstery solution does not cause colour bleeding or damage to the fabric.”
Applying the cleaning solution evenly over the upholstery surface, paying special attention to stained or soiled areas are important. “Allow the solution to dwell for the recommended duration, as specified in the manufacturer’s guidelines. A dilution of 1:10 is recommended for delicate fabrics, exemplifying the precision required in the cleaning regimen.”
Guidelines given by the manufacturers/suppliers of both the material and cleaning equipment/ chemicals should be followed properly. Different types of material will require different approaches. Wrong cleaning agent could lead to discolouration and damage. It is crucial to prevent spills and staining. If these happens, immediate action can reduce the damage. Also recommended are rotation and flipping of cushions to prevent increased damage to specific areas
Some Dos and Don’ts
Machine-Assisted Scrubbing:
• Ensure that the machine is equipped with a suitable brush or attachment based on the upholstery material.
• Set the machine to the recommended settings for upholstery cleaning, balancing scrubbing intensity and material sensitivity.
• Systematically scrub the entire upholstery surface, paying extra attention to areas with stains or heavy soiling.
• Regularly inspect the machine brushes or attachments for wear and tear, replacing them as needed to maintain optimal performance
Extraction and Drying:
• Engage the extraction function on the Machine to remove excess moisture and cleaning solution.
• Thoroughly extract the cleaning solution, ensuring minimal residual moisture.
• Allow the upholstery to dry completely before returning it to regular use.
• Facilitate drying by using fans or ensuring proper ventilation in the treated area.
Repair and Restoration:
• Explore the role of cleaning equipment like Taski TR 101 in repairing minor damages and wear. Provide guidelines on when to use the equipment for spot treatments and when professional assistance may be required for more extensive restoration.
Irfan Khan, Founder & Managing Director Go Facility Management says that regular maintenance routines such as vacuuming, spot cleaning, and professional deep cleaning can help prevent dirt, stains, and odours from becoming embedded in the fabric.
Preventive Measures and Inspections:
• Beyond routine cleaning, proactive measures and vigilant inspections play a pivotal role. Encouraging strategic furniture placement to minimize sunlight exposure and implementing policies to mitigate risks from sharp objects are instrumental in averting potential damage. Regular inspections serve as preventive healthcare for furniture, identifying issues before they escalate.
Review:
• Regularly review and update the SOP based on feedback, evolving industry best practices, and manufacturer recommendations.
• Conduct training sessions for staff involved in upholstery maintenance to ensure adherence to the established procedures.
Upholstery shampooing method
A simple yet effective maintenance routine begins with regular dusting and vacuuming. This removes dirt particles that, when left to sit, could wear down and damage the fibres of your furniture’s fabric. A weekly vacuum using the soft brush attachment can prevent this deterioration.
1. Pre-clean the sofa: Use a dust-buster or a hose attachment on a full-sized vacuum cleaner to clear the sofa of any surface particles. If there are any spots that have heavy dust caked in, use a stiff-bristled brush to break up the spots and vacuum up the released dirt. Use a lint roller to remove any lint or pet hair. Wipe down any exposed hard surfaces with an all-purpose surface cleaner. Find the tag that tells you what the sofa cover is made from. These tags usually have instructions for what cleaning products you should use on the fabric.
2. Apply shampoo: Make a solution of detergent and water according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Dip a rag into the solution and wring it out. Apply the shampoo to the sofa. Place the nozzle against the sofa’s fabric and hold down the trigger or button that releases the solution you poured into the tank. Keeping the button depressed, move across the surface of the sofa in a grid pattern, just as you did with the vacuum cleaner earlier. Make sure you apply the shampoo to the entire sofa.
3. Rinse the sofa: Dip a rag into a bucket of water and wring it out. Wipe down the sofa with the rag to remove any remaining shampoo. Rinse the rag frequently in the bucket to keep it clean.
4. Dry the sofa: Use a clean, dry rag to blot the sofa dry. Do not rub the fabric, as this can damage it. If possible, open windows or turn on a fan to help the sofa dry more quickly.
Address Spills Promptly
When spills occur, timely action can prevent permanent stains. First, blot the spill using a clean, absorbent cloth, avoiding the urge to rub. For most fabrics, a mild soapy solution can be applied. However, always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area to ensure the solution does not cause discoloration.
Be Mindful of the Environment
Temperature and humidity play a role in upholstery maintenance. Too much humidity can lead to mold and mildew, while excessive dryness can make certain fabrics brittle. Ensure your home has a balanced environment, by using dehumidifiers or humidifiers as required.
Furniture could be made from various fabrics, including leather, cotton, wool, silk, or synthetics, such as polyester. The type of fabric often dictates its cleaning requirements and maintenance approach, says Thota Hari Kishan, Manager Housekeeping, Falcon Property Management Services.
Protect your wood surfaces
Table mats, coasters and runners might feel a little old-fashioned to some people, but they help you avoid damaging the surfaces of tables with hot or damp items like a drinking glass. While cleaning should be more careful as most of the damages will happen while cleaning like mopping, scrubbing and dusting.
Avoid furniture polish, as it can accumulate over time and leave a residue. Spray a little shining solution onto clean cloth. Wipe all wooden surfaces with soft and clean microfiber duster such as tables, bedside tables and chairs. Polish the surfaces to a fine sheen, working the polish into the grain of the wood.
Last, but not the least, make sure everyone in the house or workplace understands the importance of furniture care. Simple habits like not eating messy foods on upholstered surfaces can extend the lifespan of your pieces.