Fast Furniture Fix-ups

Check the upholstery cleaning guide to identify proper cleaning techniques.

Home-decorating expert Donna Babylon shares some smart ways to get common stains out of upholstered furniture.

• Help maintain furniture fabric by vacuuming it. Hand-held vacuums are perfect for this job as well as upholstery attachments on carpet vacuums.
  
  
• Anytime a spill occurs on upholstered furniture, try to blot it up immediately. Many times the furniture manufacturer has treated the fabric to resist stains, so quick actions can usually result in avoiding a permanent stain.
  
  
• Many furniture items come with an upholstery cleaning code. "W" indicates the fabric is safe to clean with water. "S" indicates dry clean only. "WS" indicates that either method is OK (see photo). "X" indicates that the fabric should only be cleaned with a vacuum or light brushing.
  
  
• Remove dirt by using bran (available at grocery stores). Heat bran in a small bowl in the microwave, then rub the warmed bran into the stain. It will act as a mild abrasive. When you see the dirt coming up, lightly brush away both the dirt and the bran. Repeat if necessary.
  
  
• Use a mild dishwashing liquid to clean away a stain. Pour a small amount of the liquid and water in a blender to get the mixture foamy. Add the foam only to the stain use a sponge to work in the lather. Rinse with water.
  
  
• Wine can be a tough stain to remove. One solution is to dip a clean sponge in clear water and rub the stain gently. If water isn't working, go to a vinegar-and-water solution. Use four parts water to one part vinegar.
  
  
• Create a coffee-stain remover by mixing one teaspoon dishwashing liquid with one cup of water. Dip in a sponge, ring it out, then rub the stain briskly with the sponge.
  
  
• Grease stains can be treated with dry cleaning fluid. Add the fluid directly to the stain and rub it on. The fluid should pick up the grease particles, then just blot up.

Resources
More Splash Than Cash Decorating Ideas
by Donna Babylon
This book is an easy-to-read guide for tasteful decorating on a budget--perfect for anyone wanting to spruce up their home without breaking their wallet.
Windsor Oak Publishing, March 1999
Order this title from Amazon.com.


Guests
Donna Babylon
Author / Designer / Owner, Windsor Oak Publishing
Toll-free: 888-919-8227
Fax: 410-848-3293
E-mail: Donna@WindsorOak.com
Website: www.moresplashthancash.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-531
•	Cactus Tips
•	Vegetable Stock
•	Vegetable Stir-Fry
•	Fast Furniture Fix-ups
•	Smart Solution of the Day