One of the largest investments you make inside your home is the money you spend on upholstered furniture. Because your purchase can be final for a long time it is important to choose a fabric that will suit your lifestyle and a style that will make you want to keep the furniture for many years. Dirt and oils from every day use, direct sunlight, constant wear and tear or kid's activities such as drawing crayons on the sofa can break down fibers in your upholstery and cause them to fade, look bad and wear out. Fabrics also hold on to odors so the furniture should be cleaned and maintained not only for it to look its best but also to preserve it and make it last longer. This will help the entire room smell and feel fresher as well as save thousands on furniture replacement.

By developing a regular routine of cleaning and following a few simple tips you can prevent your furniture upholstery from becoming worn, soiled and darkened by grime, grit and spills. Vacuuming your furniture every week is the most important advice you can follow. Regular vacuuming will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime as well as prolong the need for a deeper cleaning.

You can keep your furniture looking great by not eating food on the furniture. It is impossible to prevent spills and drips or stop the kids from wiping their greasy hands on the furniture and by keeping food away it makes it easier to stop the mess. When spots do appear it is important to remove them as soon as possible using a damp cloth and some mild dish detergent. The longer a spot remains in the fabric the greater the chance it becomes permanent.

One method of preventing spots from becoming permanent on your furniture is to have Scotchgard applied. Scotchgard will add an additional layer of protection to your furniture making it easier to remove any spots or spills that may occur. Also Scotchgard prevents the buildup of soil from regular use and this helps to preserve the brightness of colors.

Turning your cushions is another important part of keeping your furniture free of excess wear and tear. This will make the wear and tear more even and prevents the grime from building up in one area. Keeping your furniture out of direct sunlight will prevent the fabric from fading and preserve the beauty of your furniture.

All upholstered furniture eventually gets a buildup of cooking odors, pollution from outside or body oils from frequent use. The only way to properly remove these problems is to have your furniture deep cleaned. It is important to use a method with low moisture to prevent any damage that can be caused by excessive moisture. And remove any buildup of soiling. By following a routine of cleaning every 12 to 18 months it will increase the likelihood of being able to maintain the beauty of your furniture.

If you try to clean the furniture yourself instead of having it professionally cleaned it can be a little tricky. Make sure you only use mild cleaning agents because some fabrics are much more delicate than carpeting. Some cleaning solution act as bleaching agents and can cause permanent damage to the fabric. Also excessive moisture can cause mold and mildew issues. With such a large investment and with the proper care and maintenance you can enjoy the use and relish the appearance of your furniture beyond your expectation.