A Guide to Cleaning & Maintaining your furniture

Your lounge suite is the heart of your living space, providing comfort and style to your home. Whether it's the elegance of leather or the durability of polyester fabric, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to preserve their beauty and extend their lifespan. In this blog, we'll explore effective ways to clean and care for both leather and polyester lounge fabrics, as well as essential tips for mattress cleaning to ensure a fresh and healthy sleep environment.

Cleaning and Maintaining Leather Lounge Fabrics:

1. Regular Dusting: Leather lounges can accumulate dust over time, dulling their shine. Wipe down your leather lounge regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove surface dust and keep it looking sleek.

2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: When it comes to cleaning leather, less is more. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as ammonia or bleach, as they can damage the leather's natural oils and cause discolouration. Instead, opt for a mild soap solution or a commercial leather cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.

3. Spot Cleaning: For spills or stains on leather, act quickly to prevent them from setting in. Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth, and avoid rubbing, as this could spread the stain further. Once the spot is dry, apply a leather conditioner to maintain the material's suppleness.

4. Conditioning and Moisturising: Leather can dry out over time, leading to cracks and a faded appearance. Regularly condition your leather lounge using a leather conditioner or a mixture of vinegar and linseed oil. Conditioning keeps the leather moisturised and prevents it from becoming brittle.

5. Sunlight Protection: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and damage leather. Keep your leather lounge away from windows or use curtains and blinds to shield it from harsh UV rays.

Cleaning and Maintaining Polyester Lounge Fabrics:

1. Vacuum Regularly: Polyester lounge fabrics are prone to trapping dust and dirt, so vacuuming them regularly is essential. Use a soft brush attachment to avoid damaging the fabric.

2. Machine-Washable Covers: If your polyester lounge has removable covers, check the care label for machine-wash instructions. Washing the covers periodically helps keep them fresh and stain-free.

3. Hand Spot Cleaning: For non-removable stains, prepare a gentle cleaning solution by mixing warm water and mild detergent. Dab the stained area with a soft cloth or sponge, working from the outside towards the centre. Rinse with clean water and pat dry.

4. Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Polyester fabrics can be sensitive to high heat, so avoid using hairdryers or ironing directly on the fabric. Also, like leather, keep polyester lounges away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Mattress Cleaning Tips:

1. Vacuum Regularly: Just like your lounge, your mattress needs regular vacuuming to remove dust, dead skin cells, and allergens. Use a vacuum cleaner with a upholstery attachment to reach all the nooks and crannies.

2. Deodorise with Baking Soda: To freshen up your mattress, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the surface. Let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up. Baking soda is an excellent natural deodoriser.

3. Spot Clean Stains: Lightly spray the stain with 50/50 white vinegar and water, leave for 5 to 10 minutes, before dabbing it up with a cloth

   . Gently blot the stain and let it air dry.

4. Rotate and Flip: To prevent sagging and uneven wear, rotate and flip your mattress every few months.

5. Use a Mattress Protector: Invest in a quality mattress protector to safeguard your mattress against spills, stains, and dust mites. Wash the protector regularly to maintain a clean sleep surface.

Caring for your lounge suite and mattress is essential to keep them looking and feeling fresh and comfortable. By following these cleaning and maintenance tips, you'll be able to enjoy your leather or polyester lounge for years to come and ensure a clean and healthy sleep environment on your mattress. Remember, consistency is key, so make these practices a regular part of your household routine.