Is It Advisable To Steam Clean Your Couch?

With plenty of couch cleaning techniques out there, it��s pretty easy for one to get confused as to which method to use. Different methods are applied for different reasons and provide a number of benefits as well as doing some disservice here and there. Before deciding on which method to use, it is important that you understand both the pros and cons of the cleaning technique in question and everything else worth knowing about it. In this article, we will be discussing about steam cleaning and whether it��s advisable for cleaning of couches. However, we will first go through the processes of couch cleaning before embarking on our theme question and finally conclude with a recommendation as to whether steam cleaning is advisable for couches.

How to clean your couch (the processes)
As mentioned before knowing what technique to use while cleaning a couch is of utmost importance. Cleaning is not only supposed to remove dirt from your couch but also to help in general maintenance of its fabrics and cushions in general. Under this segment, we will be discussing about the exact steps that needs to be followed when cleaning a couch in order to get thorough results. These tips include:

Regular Maintenance – 
Simplest way to maintain your couch is by regularly cleaning it. It is advisable that you clean it at least once a week; this will keep dirt and dust from accumulating to extreme levels. If your couch��s surface is made from cushion covers and fabric, you can consider using a vacuum cleaner attached with a mini carpet attachment. For fellows with leather and vinyl couches, consider using a crevice attachment or a brush attachment. When vacuuming, remove all cushions and vacuum both sides, move further to the base and armrests.

Steam cleaning – 
Steam cleaning is another way to keep your couch clean and new at the same. However, since it��s an intense technique, you are advised to use it at least once a month. This method is quite effective in killing bacteria, removing dirt and dust and killing bugs. It��s applicable to all types of surfaces since it does not leave any water. However, before you fully decide to use it, it will be prudent that you try it on a small section and see its reaction. If it��s bad, immediately discontinue it but if it��s not, use it but fairly. In order to steam clean your couch, the following methods are to be followed.

Using a regular vacuum cleaner, remove all the loose dirt and dust. 
Fill the reservoir on the cleaner with hot or warm water to the line, and add a dish detergent or laundry soap as instructed. Using the hand held attachment; clean the back of the couch, both sides of the couch, and the underside of the couch with slow and steady vertical motions. To be safe, ensure that each swipe of the vacuum cleaner attachment overlaps the next. Finally, if your cleaner has a suction pump, keenly run it all over the couch before allowing it to dry completely.

Remove all the stains – 
Stain removal will always be part of cleaning. If you notice a stain on your couch, use a paper towel to gently bolt the stain excess. Mix equal parts of warm water and vinegar to cover the stain, rub it gently and give it close to 8 minutes for it to absorb. Finally bolt the couch using cold water and allow it to dry.

Clean the cushion covers – 
This should be quite easy to do. Simply pull the cushions out of their covers and wash them the normal way you wash clothes. Note that you can even dry clean them. Washing the cushions not only makes them clean but also makes them maintain their liveliness. Remember that everything needs proper care and maintenance for it to last and couches aren��t exceptions. If you really want your couch to serve you for long then regular cleaning is must.

The pros of Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning as mentioned before does serve a lot of purpose in both cleaning and maintenance of the couch. As we all know, for quite some time now, steam cleaning market has been a booming one. Steam can be used to clean a number of home facilities among them being; carpets, ovens, and furniture to mention but a few. According to experts, since steam produces hot air, it is actually pointless to use chemicals with it meaning that it can also save you from incurring costs you would have when buying cleaning products. So briefly, here are the benefits of using steam cleaners to clean couches and other household equipments.

1. They banish bacteria – 
It��s been reported that after using steam cleaners on couches, many individuals who initially had allergies stopped experiencing difficulties; especially people who are asthmatic and ones who are allergic to dust.

2. It prolongs the lifespan of furniture – 
Unlike other methods of cleaning that involves deep scrubbing; steam cleaning only utilizes hot hair and therefore guarantees no interference on the couch��s fabric, vinyl or leather. In addition, since it does not leave any water, it takes quite limited time for the couch to be ready for use.

3. It kills bugs – 
If your home is infested with bugs, consider using steam cleaner. The hot air is so hot that even bugs can��t withstand. To really kill bugs you are to steam your couch for at least 15 minutes before leaving it to dry.

4. It removes dust – 
Finally; steam cleaning removes sticky dirt and dusts that when left untouched can lead to respiratory track complications such asthma.

So, is it advisable to steam clean your couch?
With all the outlined benefits it��s definitely a yes. If it can steam clean your couch, kill bacteria and bugs, remove dirt and dust, without compromising its quality, then it��s worth or rather safe using it. However, you are urged to be keen when steaming your couch to avoid damaging it. As said before, make it a habit to always try steaming a small portion before fully embarking on the whole couch.

Conclusion
In summary, steam cleaning is worth a try. It��s one of the latest and efficient methods of cleaning. Kindly follow all the instructions that come with the cleaner together with everything discussed here to get the best results.