What Can Be Used to Clean Upholstery Made Out of Resin?

Identification

• Vinyl can be used as clothing, siding, in toys, and of course in fabric for upholstering furniture. Vinyl is "more durable [and] more economical" than other options, according to the Vinyl Institute. Certain types of polyester can also be made using resin. Unsaturated polyesters use thermosetting resins and like vinyl are more economical and more widely used than the alternate saturated polyesters.

Cleaning Vinyl Upholstery

• Vinyl upholstered furniture is durable, but even the most durable of fabrics can become stained or dirty over the years. This is especially true if you have lighter colored vinyls, which may be more prone to heavy duty stains such as ink from a pen or marker. In most instances, vinyl can be cleaned very simply by wiping it down with a clean, damp cloth. Don't any type of chemical or detergent on your vinyl, as this can seriously damage it. However, tough stains (such as ink) can be removed using mineral spirits.

Cleaning Polyester Upholstery

• Polyester fabrics can vary greatly, so it's recommended that you first contact the manufacturer for recommendations on how to properly clean your polyester upholstery. Mild fabric cleaners can be used on stained areas and do not need to be combined with water. Once the area has been treated, you can use a clean white damp cloth to remove the mild cleanser. Avoid using excessive amounts of water, as this can damage both the fabric and the internal components of the chair.

Tips for Cleaning

• When cleaning any type of fabric, whether it be vinyl, polyester or cotton, always test your chosen cleaning method on an undetectable area of the furniture prior to cleaning the entire piece. This method will allow you to ensure that your fabric will not be seriously damaged by the chosen cleanser. Also, avoid acidic cleaning methods (such as vinegar,) as these can damage the fibers of the fabric. If you are still unsure of what to clean your resin-based upholstery with, consider investing in a kit specific to your fabric or contacting the manufacturer for recommendations.