In order to best care for your upholstery, we suggest that you purchase the Guardian natural fabric protection plan. Regularly rotate cushions and pillows to distribute wear, and vacuum upholstery using the upholstery attachment and crevice tool of your vacuum to remove loose particles. Occassionally bounce or toss the cushions and pillows on all sides to evenly distribute the filling. Periodic cleaning by a professional upholstery cleaning service is the only recommended cleaning method for your upholstery, including the furniture base beneath slipcovers. Annual cleaning is suggested, but this may vary depending on use. To prevent possibly bleeding of ink onto fabric, do not leave newspapers or other printed materials on upholstery. Be aware that foreign materials such as denim and blankets may fade onto upholstery, so avoid placing dyed fabrics on furniture. Take special care when spraying household chemicals and commercial products near upholstery. Protect upholstery from direct sunlight, which may cause fabric to fade.
Some fabrics such as cotton, polyester, and acrylic are prone to pilling - the formation of tiny balls of tangled fabric fibers. Pilling typically occurs on parts of furniture that receive the most abrasion from day-to-day wear. In addition to natural pilling of the fabric itself, pills can form from contact with another fabric source like a throw blanket that causes friction on the fabric, thus producing pills. Pills do not interfere with the functionality or durability of the fabric, nor are they considered defects covered by warranties. Most pills easily can be removed by gently using a razor (electric or manual) to shave the fabric, a de-fuzzing comb, duct tape, or a battery-operated lint shaver. You may need to de-pill several times, but pilling on the fabric surface will begin to diminish and ultimately should stop.
If you purchased the Guardian protection plan, you should blot the area with a dry cloth and contact our Customer Relations Representative (865-219-2705 or claims@shopinbliss.com) who can guide you through Guardian's process. If your upholstery is not treated with Guardian, we suggest that you follow the advice below.
In some cases, spot cleaning can cause a ring or fading. It is best to have the entire piece or cushion casing cleaned by a professional upholstery cleaning service to ensure uniform results. If you decide to spot clean on your own, check the standard cleaning code to determine the correct type of product to use.
Always blot—never rub—spills immediately with a clean, absorbent, white cloth. Blot from the outside to the middle of the affected area to prevent rings. Pile fabrics may require brushing with a nonmetallic, stiff bristle brush to restore appearance. Always pre-test cleaning agents in a small, inconspicuous area. Never use strong chemicals or detergents.
Industry standard cleaning codes indicate the correct cleaning method based on the type of fabric. To determine the cleaning code for your upholstery, please ask your Sales Associate.
For pre-washed fabrics upholstered onto the frame, follow the S cleaning code.
Brush or vacuum slipcovers at least once a month. Rotate seat and back cushions and pillows regularly. Immediately blot spills with a clean, white cloth.
Dry Clean-Only Slipcovers: Use a reputable dry cleaner or professional upholstery cleaner. Always dry clean the entire slipcover for uniform results. Close all zippers and fabric tab fasteners prior to cleaning. As with clothing, some fading is to be expected after dry cleaning.
Machine-Washable Slipcovers: Use a triple-load washer or divide slipcovers into manageable loads. Always wash the entire slipcover for uniform results. Close all zippers and fabric tab fasteners prior to washing. Wash in cold water with mild detergent. Tumble dry on low until slightly damp; remove promptly to reduce wrinkling. Do not line-dry slipcovers as this may stretch the fabric. As with clothing, some fading is to be expected after washing.
To clean outdoor fabrics, use a spray bottle to apply a light mist of mild detergent and water. Work the solution into the stain by lightly scrubbing the affected area with a sponge. Thoroughly rinse the area to remove detergent residue and blot excess moisture with a clean, soft towel. Allow the material to air dry and repeat the rinsing three or four times until all residue has been removed. While outdoor fabric does not promote mildew growth, mildew may grow on dirt and other foreign substances that are not removed from the fabric. To clean mildew, pollen, or other stubborn stains, prepare a solution with a ratio of one part bleach to four parts water. Use a garden sprayer to apply the solution on the entire area, allow the solution to soak into the fabric for 15 minutes, then remove the stain with a sponge or white towel. Rinse thoroughly the area with a garden hose on spray setting to remove residue, and allow the fabric to air dry. If the stain or mildew is severe, bleach quantities may be increased.
