Tips on upholstery stains

Another useful article form the web worth a look

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING TIPS: DIY OR GO PRO?

Spills, stains and normal wear and tear can leave your upholstered furniture looking less than fresh. Should you clean it yourself or leave the job to the pros? That depends.

While manufacturers often recommend professional cleaning, many spots and stains can be treated at home without risk to the furniture. To help you decide, consider three main factors:

1. Fabric type

2. Size and location of stain

3. Type of stain

First, look at the manufacturer’s label to identify the fabric content. (If necessary, ask your retailer or check with the manufacturer). If the fabric is synthetic, you can usually safely clean it at home, since synthetic fabrics were designed for ease of care. If the fabric is a natural/synthetic blend, however, use caution and test a small, hidden patch first. If the upholstery is more than 50% cotton, professional cleaning may be your best bet if the stain is large, dark or in a very noticeable area.

The easiest upholstery stains to clean are those that are treated while they are still fresh. The hardest to clean are grease and oil. Any very large stain may be best left to a professional. Some tips on increasing your chance of successful results:

1. Moisture is not your friend. Use as little water as possible to clean upholstery. Try a spot remover first, but if you must use a water-based approach, use it sparingly for best results.

2. Upholstery sprays are inexpensive and often work well on organic stains, but they are ineffective on grease or oil.

3. Baby wipes are surprisingly effective for cleaning upholstery because they deliver the right amount of soap and water, are quite gentle, and evaporate quickly.

4. Coffee Stains: Combine a small amount of dish detergent, water and vinegar and dab sparingly until coffee disappears.

5. Mold or mildew: Mix a quarter cup of hydrogen peroxide and a quarter teaspoon of color safe bleach. Lightly rub the stain with a clean cloth dipped in the solution. Rub area with fresh water applied sparingly and let dry.

6. Stubborn Stains:

CRAYON: Try using non-gel toothpaste to remove crayon marks from water-safe upholstery. Rub it gently on the surface, a small section at a time, then wipe off with a damp cloth.

GREASE OR OIL: Sprinkle salt, cornstarch or talcum powder on the spot as soon as you discover it. Rub in carefully, allow grease to lift off upholstery and absorb into spot remover. Brush off grease and powder and wipe with a damp cloth.

Did you know you can reduce overall grime and soiling of your upholstered furniture by vacuuming it regularly? Special upholstery attachments for your vacuum system can make it easy to reach small corners and creases, and are safe for use on fabrics. Vacuum furniture at least every two months, or weekly if you have pets or allergies.

 

if in any doubt contact a professional

www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu

Cleanbright the Dublin carpet cleaner

DIY or professional, the dangers of diy

another good article by Kevin loomes this man knows his stuff

 

And why you could be very disappointed indeed

There's something special about having fresh, clean carpets. It makes you feel better and gives your guests a great welcome. Cleaning them yourself may have been an idea you may have thought about before - afterall there are lots of adverts saying how you can hire 'professional' machines and the results look really good. Great! You may think, I'll get them done at the weekend and save money too!

So off you go to the DIY store and hire a machine with detergents, and you get them in the back of the car and get home ready for action! After a whole day of slogging away, filling up, emptying etc - will you be impressed with the results?

The honest answer is more than likely not. But why do you say? It's quite simple really....so be prepared for a little education based on facts, and ignore it at your peril.

A small machine from a hire store has to be small for a reason. If it's too big you won't be able to lift it - or fit it in to your car. Now being so small (and light) means that there is a limit on power - hhmm you may think, surely a carpet cleaning machine is a carpet cleaning machine. Yes, but there are MASSIVE differences between different types - and ALL giving different results.

Basically the bigger the machine the heavier it gets - due to much bigger internal motors and pumps for example, meaning it will have more power, allowing much better results to be had. Lets take this further. As the power increases even more (and again, along with the weight and size of the machine) the better it will perform in the worst conditions. There will be more VACUUM, more HEAT and more water PRESSURE leaving carpets much cleaner, brighter and dryer.

So you really have to try and ignore the suggestively 'amazing' sales videos and literature that are associated with these machines and realise that it is essentially impossible to achieve the same result as a genuine professional machine (hire machines are certainly not professional by the way). But you have to understand that they want to sell the 'hiring' of these machines for a reason - it makes them money (hey they are a business afterall). So yes they will have great 'images' etc - merely offering visual representations (as opposed to actual genuine cleaning photos).

If you think about this situation logically - if it were true (i.e. they do the same job as any other machine) then companies (certainly in our case), wouldn't buy machines costing many thousands of pounds - no-one would want to waste that sort of money right? - ABSOLUTELY! But they don't do the same - nowhere near, which is why some companies invest heavily to give the ultimate cleaning experience to their clients (note: not all companies/individuals do).

So What Are The Hidden Dangers?
Well they certainly are present that's for sure, and we occasionally SEE the result - and rectify issues commonly experienced with them. I will list them - and if you have used one before you may notice one of them - or even all of them.

1) Poor results - due to lack of power from the machines
2) Damp carpets for days - causing smells
3) Mould build up - due to incorrect cleaning attempts
4) Delaminated carpets - caused by overwetting
5) Browning discolouration - caused by overwetting
6) Shrinkage - caused by excessive moisture
7) Rapid re-soiling - caused by high residue content of detergent left behind

The actual dangers are mould spores being breathed in which can cause health issues, and physically damaged carpets - which may have to be removed & replaced. THIS IS NOT A SCARE TACTIC. These are genuine problems that arise because of these machines. We had a client contact us recently who experienced the exact same problem and explained to me that it was a waste of time BUYING one of these machines as it now sits in her cupboard (and she will not use it any more). And yes, we visited her to clean her carpets properly.

So, the idea of saving a few pounds now.......well could it actually cost you more financially? Yes it could indeed, and you have been warned.

Author: Kevin Loomes

 

cleanbright the dublin carpet cleaner www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu

 

Agitation why do it

Another great article by kevin loomes

What On Earth is 'Agitation'? & Why Should it NEVER Be Missed?

And why every company should be doing it.

Its a simple process, an action of loosening soil to make it easier to remove from where it's attached to. It's not complicated, but it can and and does get missed - even though it's critically important.

Allow me to explain. If your washing your hands, you first apply a cleaning agent, and then you 'agitate' your hands together and then you rinse under water making them lovely and clean. If your washing your car, you put the sponge in to the bucket containing a cleaning product, and then you 'agitate' the paintwork - and rinse off with water to get a great shiny finish . If your washing your hair, you apply a shampoo and 'agitate' with your fingers prior to rinsing off and leaving it squeeky clean. I think you get the picture. Fundamentally they all require agitation to get the desired result.

So if we didn't agitate what we clean - and just applied the product and merely rinsed off - what would happen to your hands, your car or your hair? Well not a lot really, it really wouldn't look any different.

So logic says that ANY cleaning being undertaken, whether it's something as simple as above - or even cleaning a floor for example, tells you that you cannot miss this critical process otherwise there wouldn't be any proper cleaning being carried out. This is just a simple fact but one I hope you can now easily understand why it's such an important aspect to the whole cleaning service. It's simple isn't it? Yes it's really that simple!

So Why Should Every Company 'Do It' & How Does It Relate To Professional Cleaning?
Well first of all it is irrelevant whether a professional company carry it out or not - it's still the same principal. So if a company chooses to miss this aspect of the cleaning process, then they really are missing out on giving a thorough 'proper' clean. Whether it's carpets, upholstery, leather, rugs or hard floors, only by agitating will the item be really clean - prior to the rinsing action of the fibres or hard surface.

You know it makes logical sense, so if a company decides to miss out on this (i.e. carpet cleaning for example) - just ask them why, and see what they say. Maybe they charged a really low price and subsequently haven't got time to do it? It's quite a common scenario unfortunately, as something has to 'give' the lower the price goes.

So how does a company actually 'agitate'? Well it's the use of a separate machine that does the work - prior to the main machine rinsing it all out. This can be by different types of equipment, using brushes or pads for example, but essentially it massages the area deep down and loosens the soil, in conjunction with a suitable cleaning agent (and suitable equipment).

So, if you haven't yet experienced proper cleaning - then make sure your furnishings are agitated!

Author: Kevin Loomes

 

thought this was such a good piece , we always agitate ,but sadly alot of the cowboys dont
Cleanbright the Dublin carpet cleaners
www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu

Dark Patches in Front of Sofas - Is It Damage....or Dirt?

 Really good article by kevin loomes                                                                                                                                                                                                         Dark Patches in Front of Sofas - Is It Damage....or Dirt?

You may be sitting there one day and looking at your carpet, and notice that in front of your sofa or armchair on the carpet - that the foot area looks well, downright grubby - and wouldn't it be nice if it wasn't there! Maybe a good clean will get rid of it you think - or will it?

Surely a clean will return it to new again?
Well,...possibly. What do you mean I hear you say! Well it's not as simple as that - for a number of reasons. Usually if its quite bad then it's usually down to people wearing outdoor shoes - in the house, treading all over the carpets. I can hear your brain saying "But we all wipe our shoes when we come in - so what on earth do you mean?" And that's fair enough, so let me explain.

You see even when wiping your shoes on a mat, this doesn't remove ALL the soil particles. It may remove the bulk but not the tiny particles, even minute particles caught inbetween the tread of the sole. When you walk over a carpet - or sit in the same area, its the shoes rubbing against the carpet fibres - wearing them away. It's almost like sandpaper. The tiny particles act as an abrasive, and they grind against the carpet fibre surface causing damage.

But why is it darker there than the rest of the carpet?
Well lets take a different look on it - and then you should understand. Imagine a carpet fibre.....when manufactured they are cylindrical, round and smooth on the surface - reflecting lots of light bouncing off this smooth finish. When this surface is abraded it reflects light a lot less and subsequently looks duller. Imagine a sheet of new pvc plastic, it's hard, smooth and really shiny when reflected in the light. If you get a piece of sandpaper and rub the plastic - what happens? It goes all dull and consequently darker. This is exactly the same as a carpet fibre when shoes coarsely rub against it.

Doesn't that make sense? Of course it does. Now mix in some soil from shoes and it becomes quite unsightly. Cleaning may well indeed improve the appearance but it is possible that the area could be permanently damaged. To make matters worse even slippers can cause issues too! If they are black soled, the constant rubbing of the sole can penetrate the fibres leaving them darker in appearance. If you think about it and look at your slipper soles right now - if they are black and maybe smooth and shiny? Where has the sole thickness and tread gone - if you've only worn them indoors? That's right - in to your carpet! It's not rocket science.

One last thing...
Heavy soiling created by shoes can make the same area become victim of 'inground soil' too. OK - what's this? Well essentially it's the constant bombardment of soil in one place, and it isnt always possible to remove it. It's true, and let me give you a similar scenario. If you have a white shirt, and you start to notice that the top of the collar edge and the cuff edges are showing black soil/grubbiness - and you have just taken it out of the washing machine (even at 90 degrees!) - you put this down to the fact that the machine just cannot lift any more out, as it's just not possible. Well it's exactly the same with fibres and fabrics. So it's not ineffective cleaning - it's simply issues with that particular carpet [if it was ineffective cleaning then everyone would be complaining to their washing machine manufacturer!!].

So try to look after your carpet by removing outdoor shoes and obtaining light coloured soled slippers. With these 2 actions alone the carpet will last much longer - and cleaning will have a better chance of making it look fabulous afterwards.

Author: Kevin Loomes

 

Thanks for reading www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu the dublin carpet cleaner

why carpets resoil faster after cleaning by Omar Khabat

This is a seriously good article by omar Khabat just wanted to share it with every one
http://ezinearticles.com/?Reasons-Why-Carpets-Re-Soil-Faster-After-Cleaning&id=7443184

cleaning upholstery DIY or pro

This article had a good approach , but how do you feel about these articles can more damage than good be done read it and let me know
www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu

UPHOLSTERY CLEANING TIPS: DIY OR GO PRO?

Spills, stains and normal wear and tear can leave your upholstered furniture looking less than fresh. Should you clean it yourself or leave the job to the pros? That depends.

While manufacturers often recommend professional cleaning, many spots and stains can be treated at home without risk to the furniture. To help you decide, consider three main factors:

1. Fabric type

2. Size and location of stain

3. Type of stain

First, look at the manufacturer’s label to identify the fabric content. (If necessary, ask your retailer or check with the manufacturer). If the fabric is synthetic, you can usually safely clean it at home, since synthetic fabrics were designed for ease of care. If the fabric is a natural/synthetic blend, however, use caution and test a small, hidden patch first. If the upholstery is more than 50% cotton, professional cleaning may be your best bet if the stain is large, dark or in a very noticeable area.

The easiest upholstery stains to clean are those that are treated while they are still fresh. The hardest to clean are grease and oil. Any very large stain may be best left to a professional. Some tips on increasing your chance of successful results:

1. Moisture is not your friend. Use as little water as possible to clean upholstery. Try a spot remover first, but if you must use a water-based approach, use it sparingly for best results.

2. Upholstery sprays are inexpensive and often work well on organic stains, but they are ineffective on grease or oil.

3. Baby wipes are surprisingly effective for cleaning upholstery because they deliver the right amount of soap and water, are quite gentle, and evaporate quickly.

4. Coffee Stains: Combine a small amount of dish detergent, water and vinegar and dab sparingly until coffee disappears.

5. Mold or mildew: Mix a quarter cup of hydrogen peroxide and a quarter teaspoon of color safe bleach. Lightly rub the stain with a clean cloth dipped in the solution. Rub area with fresh water applied sparingly and let dry.

6. Stubborn Stains:

CRAYON: Try using non-gel toothpaste to remove crayon marks from water-safe upholstery. Rub it gently on the surface, a small section at a time, then wipe off with a damp cloth.

GREASE OR OIL: Sprinkle salt, cornstarch or talcum powder on the spot as soon as you discover it. Rub in carefully, allow grease to lift off upholstery and absorb into spot remover. Brush off grease and powder and wipe with a damp cloth.

Did you know you can reduce overall grime and soiling of your upholstered furniture by vacuuming it regularly? Special upholstery attachments for your vacuum system can make it easy to reach small corners and creases, and are safe for use on fabrics. Vacuum furniture at least every two months, or weekly if you have pets or allergies.

Carpet cleaning myths exposed

i thought this was a good article and wanted to share it, i find alot of the assertians made in it are a common enough occurance read and let me know what you think

Most people have already formed certain assumptions about carpet cleaning and professional carpet cleaning companies. As are many assumptions lingering out there in the world, many of them are either incorrect or misguided. It is important to go into any situation being armed with the knowledge to get you the best service for the best price. If a consumer is unaware of what to look for and just is not armed with the proper knowledge to negotiate and make sure the carpet cleaning company they choose will do the job right, then there is a chance they could get hustled by a less than reputable business.

After all, there are unsavory people working in every industry, so even in the professional carpet cleaning industry you may run across a few companies that allow these people to work there. These crooks love to find a consumer who does not know how much a service should cost or what steps should be taken to make sure it gets done right. They will overcharge them, cut corners on the job and pocket the extra cash they make. This is why it is important to operate with knowledge in hand, rather than misguided assumptions.

For that reason and many more, here are some common myths about carpet cleaning, and what the real truth behind them is.

1. MYTH: Professional Carpet Cleaning is Too Expensive; I can Do a Better Job Myself, and For Less Money! – It is highly unlikely that a person with little to no knowledge of how to professionally clean a carpet will be able to do a more efficient, better job for less money than a reputable and professional carpet cleaning company. These companies have permits and wholesale pricing to get equipment, industrial cleansers and unique patents on better cleaning products that an individual just does not have access to. By the time the consumer has rented the proper vacuum, bought the right cleanser, moved all the furniture out of the house and tried to figure out how to operate the vacuum, more time would have been spent than would have been worth it. On top of that, it is much simpler to make mistakes as a novice, and mistakes in carpet cleaning can cost a lot more money than an original professional carpet cleaning job ever would have.
   
   
2. MYTH: Professional Carpet Cleaning Companies Use Far Too Many Harmful Chemicals on Carpets. I Don't Want to Get Sick! – Although there are some companies that use harsher chemicals than others, many professional carpet cleaning companies have been transitioning as the "going green" movement has gained strength. If a professional carpet cleaning company does not offer any non-toxic environmentally friendly cleansers, then just call another company because there are plenty of professional carpet cleaning companies out there that support the "going green" movement and protecting homes with safe cleansers.
   
   
3. MYTH: If I Just Vacuum My Carpet Regularly, I Do Not Need To Have It Cleaned Professionally – It would be great if this were true, right? Be diligent about keeping your home clean, and you'll never need any professional cleaning services. However, it just isn't true. Dust, fibers and dirt can build up in air ducts, in carpet pads and in plenty of other places a person just never thinks to check. As these harmful things build up overtime, they can make everyone in the household sick with respiratory problems and other health issues. That is why it is important to have the deep clean that only a professional carpet cleaning company can provide, at least every once in a while.
   
   
4. MYTH: My Carpet is only a Year Old; It Does Not Need to Be Cleaned Yet – This is an assumption that most homeowners make, and it is unequivocally false. Operating under the false assumption that a carpet does not need to be cleaned until it actually looks dirty is a poor way to go about carpet cleaning. Most of the harmful dirt, dust, mold and other toxins are hidden deep down in the carpet pad. The only way to get them out? A professional carpet cleaning job. So just because the carpet is relatively new, do not assume that it does not need to be cleaned yet.
   
   
5. MYTH: I Can Buy Spot Cleaners For My Carpet At The Store and They Are The Same Thing! – No, not really, not even a little bit, not even at all. Once again, carpet cleaning professionals are able to have access to products and equipment that someone outside of the industry would not be able to purchase in a mainstream store. Even if they were able to get their hands on some professional grade spot remover for carpets, it is unlikely that it will come cheap. Industry professionals are able to pass on a better price for the use of those products because they buy in bulk for their business and get a wholesale discount. Many store bought spot removers either do not work, or have bleach in them, which can leave a darker carpet completely ruined.

These are only a few of the many, many myths that most people believe about carpet cleaning and professional carpet cleaning services. Be sure to keep these things in mind before attempting to clean a carpet without the assistance of a professional carpet cleaning company. It will be worth any extra money to have the peace of mind that the carpet will be cleaned swiftly, and without any unexpected issues.

www.cleanbrightcarpet.eu
the dublin carpet cleaners