Do Fabric Steamers Work on Couches?

Steaming Benefits

• One of the major advantages to using a fabric steamer on upholstery is its ability to clean the fabric without damaging it. Far gentler than irons, a fabric steamer is unlikely to burn, melt or permanently stain the fabric. The steamer works by loosening the fibers in your upholstery, thus eliminating wrinkles and unpleasant odors. Combine the steamer with mild detergent for removing stains and dirt. Enjoy the benefits of safely laundered upholstery without an expensive visit to the drycleaners.

Fabric Inspection

• Familiarize yourself with the fabric content of your upholstery as provided by the manufacturer first. Certain textiles are best left to the dry cleaners, where special chemicals are required to treat such fabrics as metallic cotton or acetate. Synthetic fibers are easy to clean, although those with stretch might shrink when exposed to steam and water.

  The tag on your couch should contain a cleaning code, which will aid you in determining whether a fabric steamer is safe to use on that specific material. If you're uncertain after reading the care label, do not be afraid to contact the manufacturer for further advice.

Proper Method

• Once you determine that it is safe to use a fabric steamer, familiarize yourself with the proper method of cleaning upholstery. Test a small area of the couch. It is best not to get the fabric too wet, so that moisture does not get trapped in the filling. Pre-treat the fabric with a mild detergent or recommended upholstery cleaner, if necessary. Soak up as much of the moisture as possible with a cloth.

  With the fabric steamer, steam in a vertical motion following the grain of the fabric. Always keep the steam head at a safe distance from the fabric. Fabrics like velvet and silk should not be touched with the steam head directly. Allow the couch a few hours to dry so any trapped moisture has time to escape.

Areas to Avoid

• When steaming, pay attention to areas that might oxidize from exposure to water. Metal hardware, even zippers on the couch pillows, can rust from getting wet over time. Embellishments and beading can melt from direct contact with steam. Metallic threading in fringe or tassels might come undone as well. Steam from the underside of the fabric, or in the most sensitive cases, steer clear of the area altogether.