Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance of fabric items requires a categorized approach, choosing appropriate methods based on the material (cotton, linen, polyester, wool, etc.). The core principles are "daily dust prevention, timely stain removal, scientific washing and care, and avoiding damage."
I. General Basic Maintenance Principles
1. Daily Dust Prevention: Use a vacuum cleaner (with a soft brush head) daily to gently vacuum surface dust, especially in the crevices of carpets and sofa covers, to prevent dust accumulation and penetration into the fibers. Shake cushions and blankets 1-2 times per week to remove loose dust.
2. Sun and Moisture Protection: Avoid prolonged exposure of fabric items to direct sunlight (especially wool, cotton, and linen) to prevent fading and fiber brittleness. During humid seasons (such as the rainy season), regularly ventilate by opening windows or use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity and prevent mold.
3. Avoid Sharp Objects: Prevent scratches from scissors, keys, and other sharp objects. Pet owners should trim their pets' nails regularly to prevent them from snagging the fabric. Avoid pulling on the edges of cushions and seat cushions to prevent stitching from coming undone.
II. Cleaning and Maintenance by Category
1. Carpets: Targeted Stain Removal + Regular Deep Cleaning
Spot Treatment:
Liquid Stains (Coffee, Juice, etc.): Immediately absorb moisture with a dry towel (do not rub to avoid spreading the stain). Then, gently pat the stain with a towel dampened with diluted neutral detergent (such as laundry detergent). Finally, wipe away any remaining detergent with a clean, damp towel and allow to air dry.
Solid Stains (Snack Crumbs, Dirt, etc.): After drying, vacuum clean. If residue remains, gently brush with a soft-bristled brush before vacuuming again. Oil stains can be gently patted with a small amount of diluted dish soap, then wiped clean with water.
Deep Cleaning:
Short-pile carpets (synthetic fiber): Clean every 3-6 months with a home carpet cleaner (neutral detergent), or have a professional clean them. Wool carpets are recommended to be professionally cleaned once a year to avoid shrinkage caused by washing.
Post-cleaning treatment: After cleaning, the carpet must be completely dried (it can be laid out in a ventilated area) before being put back in its original position to prevent bacterial growth in a damp environment.
2. Sofa Covers: Easy Removable and Washable + Detailed Care
Cleaning Method: Prioritize removable and washable sofa covers. Before washing, check the washing instructions on the label (cotton and linen can be machine washed; wool requires hand washing or dry cleaning).
Machine Washing Precautions: Select the "gentle" mode, water temperature should not exceed 30℃, use a neutral detergent, avoid washing with dark-colored clothes to prevent staining; after washing, air dry naturally, do not expose to direct sunlight to avoid fabric deformation.
Care Tips: After the sofa cover is dry, put it back on the sofa immediately to avoid prolonged folding that may cause wrinkles; if there are slight wrinkles, cotton and linen can be ironed at a low temperature, and synthetic fiber materials can be smoothed with a steam iron.
3. Throw Pillows: Flexible Cleaning + Regular Turning
Cleaning Method:
Pillowcase: Most are removable and washable. Cotton, linen, and polyester fabrics can be machine washed (delicate setting, 30℃ water). Wool and fleece fabrics can be hand washed or dry cleaned. Air dry after washing; no need for direct sunlight.
Pillow Insert: Cotton inserts can be machine washed (delicate setting, fluff after drying); down/feather inserts are recommended for dry cleaning, or vacuuming to remove dust and then sun drying (once a month, 2 hours each time) to kill bacteria and odors.
Maintenance Tips: Turn the pillow inside out weekly to avoid prolonged pressure on the same area, which can cause deformation. If the pillow insert clumps, pat or shake it to restore its fluffiness.
4. Blankets: Wash as Needed + Store for Moisture Prevention
Cleaning Method:
Cotton/Linen Blankets: Machine washable (normal setting, 30℃ water), neutral detergent. Air dry after washing. Gently pull to adjust shape after drying to prevent shrinkage and deformation.
Wool/Cashmere Blankets: Hand washing is recommended (use wool-specific detergent, water temperature around 25℃). Gently press and wash, do not rub. After washing, pat dry with a towel, lay flat to air dry, avoiding hanging to prevent stretching.
Storage Tips: Fold clean, dry blankets and place them in a breathable storage bag (avoid plastic bags to prevent mold growth). Store in a dry, well-ventilated wardrobe. During humid seasons, remove and air dry periodically.
5. Seat Cushions: High-frequency cleaning + sturdy and non-slip design
Cleaning Method:
Seat Cushion Covers: Removable and washable covers can be machine washed or hand washed depending on the fabric (same washing method as pillowcases). Non-removable and washable covers can be gently wiped with a damp towel dipped in neutral detergent, then wiped clean with water and air dried naturally.
Seat Cushion Cores: Sponge cores cannot be washed. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust. For localized stains, gently wipe with a damp towel and air dry. Latex cores can be wiped with a damp cloth, avoid direct sunlight, and air dry naturally.
Maintenance tips: Use a non-slip mat with the dining chair cushion to prevent slipping; rotate the chair regularly to avoid prolonged pressure on one spot, which can cause a decrease in elasticity; stack the chairs flat when storing them to avoid squeezing and deformation.