Alternative Cleaning Solutions for Upholstery

Hydrogen Peroxide Pretreat

• Vacuum your furniture thoroughly using a soft brush to loosen and remove dirt. Blot stains with a 3-percent hydrogen peroxide solution to pretreat the stains. Let it sit, then remove the solution with a water-dampened sponge or cloth. Be sure to spot-test first in a hidden area that even your grandmother wouldn't notice.

Dyno Detergent

• According to Ann B. Bond, the Green Living expert, a safe upholstery solution is to mix equal parts of warm water and a biodegradable liquid detergent (not a laundry detergent) and beat the solution with an electric mixer. Scoop the suds onto your upholstery and brush or scrub them into the stain. The dirt should lift out with the suds. Remove the suds and rinse lightly. Repeat as necessary.

Vigorous Vinegar

• Another great household cleaner that has more uses than grandmother ever imagined is vinegar. Equal parts vinegar and water, when mixed together in a spray bottle, can be used to remove tough stains on upholstery, including rust, coffee, wine, beer, urine and pet stains. Of course, your grandmother probably would not have been drinking beer on the sofa. Rinse with warm water. Remember to pretest your upholstery fabric to make sure it is color-fast.

Tips

• Use cool water for nongreasy stains and stains containing sugar.

  Use hot water for greasy stains.

  Use a minimum of water; too much can cause water stains or mildew under humid conditions.

  Use a fan to speed up the drying process.

  Use slipcovers on your furniture during the week, as they are easy to remove and clean.