The Dos and Don’ts of Vinyl Fabric Maintenance

There are many positives to using vinyl upholstery: it’s durable, easy to clean, and more affordable than leather while offering a similar look. But to keep it in good condition, it’ll require some TLC. Here are a few dos and don’ts of vinyl fabric maintenance to keep in mind as you clean.

Do: Keep It Clean

Wipe down your vinyl upholstery on a regular basis. Messes don’t seep into vinyl as easily as they do into other fabrics, but they still need cleaning!

Don’t: Leave It Damp

Make sure the fabric is completely dry before you walk away. Excess water tends to settle into seams and create a breeding ground for mold and mildew.

Do: Dilute Cleaning Solutions

Add about ¼-cup of mild dish soap to a gallon of water and use the gentle suds with a damp cloth to wash away any sticky spots.

Don’t: Use Harsh Chemicals

Keep bleach, ammonia, and any chemical solvents away from your vinyl furniture. Even cleaning products that come out of a spray bottle, like Windex or 409, can harm the fabric.

If you’ve got a particularly stubborn stain, however, you can try a solution of 10 percent bleach and 90 percent water to gently remove it. Test this solution on a small corner of the fabric first. If it doesn’t cause any damage or loss of color, use the solution to clean out the stain with a soft cloth and a gentle touch.

Do: Use a Soft Cloth

A chamois or soft towel is perfect for cleaning vinyl. Dip it into your soap solution, wring out the excess moisture, and wipe down the fabric.

Don’t: Scrub With Abrasive Sponges

Some messes will take a little extra elbow grease to clean up, but steer clear of steel wool or the abrasive side of a kitchen sponge. Harsh materials can leave permanent scratches on the vinyl.

Vinyl furniture is an easy way to cut down on cleaning time; you can even buy vinyl fabric online and upholster some old furniture yourself.

Now that you know the dos and don’ts of vinyl fabric maintenance, cleanup won’t be a hassle and you’ll have more time for fun and friends!