What Is a Good Solvent for Cleaning Cloth Chairs?

Preparation

• Prior to using any solvents to clean cloth chairs, it is important to to loosen any dirt and stains that are present so you can remove as much debris from the cloth as possible. Begin by brushing the cloth with a cleaning brush or the brush utensil on a vacuum cleaner. Follow up by vacuuming the chair all over, to pull out as much of the dirt and stains as you can.

Water-based Solvent

• Some cloth materials such as cotton or cotton-acrylic blends are suitable for use with a water-based solvent. If the label on your chair says it is made of such a material, you can treat the fabric with upholstery shampoo, soap, or even a mild detergent. Apply a small amount of solvent to the dirty area and rub gently with a damp cloth or sponge. Pay particular attention to any stained areas, then gently wash the chair with a damp sponge to remove the detergent.

Nonwater-based Solvent

• Some fabrics cannot be treated with a water-based solvent, such as linen and velvet. These fabrics should instead be treated with a dry cleaning solvent, rubbing alcohol or microfiber-specific cleaning fluids; which are designed to clean polyester and other synthetic cloths. Be sure to pay particular attention to any stained areas and clean the fabric by rubbing with a sponge, being sure to follow any instructions provided with the product you are using.

Warning

• Not all cleaning products are compatible with every material and using the wrong type of product can cause stains and damage to your cloth chairs. Always be sure to test the cleaning product on a piece of cloth that cannot be seen, such as the underside of a cushion, before using it on the chair as a whole, in case it discolors or damages the chair.